Eslovenia
The aim of this paper is to look at the needs of the LGBTQI+ population from the perspective of the most typical responses of social care services in Slovenia, while highlighting the gaps that arise in everyday practice. Our study draws on the findings of two European projects and a small-scale research study conducted during the COVID-19 epidemics in Slovenia, which addressed both LGBTQI+ older people as well as children and young people. The authors have drawn on existing literature and the findings of these projects to learn about the accessibility of services for the LGBTQI+ population in Slovenia. One of the most visible findings common to all these studies is that there is a gap between the claims of social justice, inclusive and accessible practices and real exclusionary practices in the area of gender and sexual diversity, which presents a particular challenge for social care settings. As a result, the needs of LGBTQI+ people are often neglected, while the accessibility to services is hindered. However, some good practices have been identified that serve as examples for the development of more inclusive, person-centred and accessible services in the future. Among the principles and approaches that have directed our research, the focus has been put on intersectionality, resilience, strengths perspectives, life stories and collaboration with LGBTQI+ people.