Silver Rainbow Training Expands to Better Support LGBTIQ+ Elders

Since Thorne Harbour Health began delivering Silver Rainbow Training (SRT) sessions in late April 2025, we’ve keenly worked to support Aged Care professionals in understanding the unique challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ elders.

Participants have left our sessions with their eyes open to issues and situations that hadn’t previously occurred to them and enjoy having their perspectives challenged so they are more sensitive to the needs of LGBTIQ+ elders. Feedback following Silver Rainbow Training suggests that staff feel more able to deliver holistic care to their clients.

In the past two months, we’ve conducted one online and six face-to-face SRT sessions, some of which included HIV 101 education components delivered by our HIV peer navigator. A Community of Practice session was also held in May, providing an opportunity for professional networking and sharing of experiences.

SRT has reached 120 staff members across six organisations, including an Emergency Department, an Aged Care facility, a health network organisation, and three mental health organisations. The training has been delivered to five metro and one regional organisation, with our primary focus on Health Justice, aiming to create a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for all.

Our one-hour SRT sessions have received praise for the informative and enjoyable content with many interested in further training opportunities. HIV 101 training sessions have also highlighted the history and current landscape of HIV in Australia with a particular emphasis on HIV stigma and its social impact. With an ageing community of people living with HIV in South Australia, this education work is critical in ensuring our communities are healthy and live safely, with dignity and wellbeing.

In response to the growing demand, we have developed new 1-hour and 3-hour training sessions. Our whole-of-organisation model of collaboration approach aims to ensure that all staff members are well-equipped to provide culturally appropriate care to LGBTIQ+ elders by reducing discrimination and social isolation.

Aged Care Organisations are especially encouraged to consider Silver Rainbow Training for their staff. By participating in SRT sessions, professionals can enhance their understanding of the challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ elders and develop the skills needed to create a more inclusive and supportive environment.