cfa lgbt housing guide updated-4 (1) - Flipbook - Page 14
HOUSING GUIDE
Best Practice
Best Practice
HOUSING GUIDE
LGBT Employment Nondiscrimination
Such nondiscrimination policies should also apply to LGBT staff
that work at these communities. A great example comes from the
Arlington Residence & Rehab Employee Handbook:
“This facility is an equal opportunity employer.
Decisions with regard to employment,
promotion, discipline, termination and all other
conditions of employment shall be made without
regard to race, religion, sex, gender, national
origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age,
disability or any other status protected by law.”
How to Handle Discriminatory Comments
Protection from discriminatory comments and/or actions within
the workplace are as essential as policy updates, whether by other
employees, by families, or by residents. A safe place should be
provided where these grievances can be voiced. A best practice
includes a written policy that states, for example, that:
“Any discriminatory comments or actions,
whether to residents, family members, or staff,
will absolutely not be tolerated and can have
consequences up to discharge or termination, as
decided by the administrator of the community.”
This policy should be discussed at orientation for new hires and all
staff trainings, and also placed visibly in break rooms and near time
clocks. Enforcement is key. The goal is to create an environment
that is not just tolerant, but inclusive and welcome to LGBT staff
and residents.
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Explicit LGBT Visitation Rights
A resident is allowed to visit with anyone at any time they wish.
A written policy should be made available for newly admitted
residents to see and understand. Many LGBT people have
experienced backlash by family members and/or staff of their
long-term care communities, due to their choice to visit with
a same-sex partner or a transgender partner/friend. Families,
residents, and staff all need to be aware of this right, and if the
resident’s right is infringed upon, how to file a grievance. A great
example of this is Presbyterian Village North and their visitation
policy that was updated to include:
“Each resident has the right, subject to his or
her consent, to receive visitors whom he or
she designates, including, but not limited to, a
spouse, (including a same-sex spouse), a domestic
partner, (including same-sex domestic partner),
another family member, or a friend, (including
LGBT visitors), and his or her right to withdraw
or deny such consent at any time.”
It is paramount that communities be explicit in nondiscrimination
for the LGBT community. Regulations are the minimum standard
however. Elsewhere in this guide are other best practices that will
help you create a culture of inclusion in your community.
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