Matrix Guild gets care grant

The Matrix Guild will compile an information publication for older lesbians and aged-care providers after being awarded a grant from the Victorian Women’s Trust.
The group has received $9,000 which will go towards the publication, thought to be the first of its kind in Australia.
The information resource will be based on findings from the My People research report released last year, coordinated by the Matrix Guild and funded by the Reichstein Foundation.
The My People report chartered the experience of older GLBTI people in aged care services and the fear many older people have of mistreatment because of their sexuality.
A second report is expected this year on strategies to enhance aged care services for GLBTI seniors.
The publication will be put together by experienced researchers in the area of aged care, Dr Jo Harrison and Marg Collins. They will look at practical guidelines for aged-care providers as well as resources for older lesbians.
Harrison and Collins are vocal senior gay rights activists on a national level.
Matrix Guild spokeswoman Jane Kent said the group was more than pleased with the Victorian Women’s Trust grant.
-œMore direct lobbying in the future is a strong part of our mission, she told Southern Star.
-œThis grant is an outstanding amount and we’re quite amazed we got this money. We hope it will help women who can often find themselves in quite vulnerable positions.