Old Lesbians in the UK: Community and Friendship

Abstract

Drawing on data from the first large-scale comprehensive study of older lesbian life in the United Kingdom, this article explores the nature of friendship and community among old lesbians. Strong friendship bonds and social networking emerge as key features of old lesbian culture. In particular the article focuses on “chosen families,” including relationships with ex-lovers, and on the extensive network of both organized and informal social groups that continue to structure and support a sense of community among old lesbians. It shows the lasting importance of friendships and social structures formed earlier in life against a background of stigmatization, homophobia, and heterosexism, and argues for the recognition of these communities of identity by those who care for older people.

KEYWORDS:

• lesbian aging
• lesbian community
• lesbian friendship
• families of choice
• lesbian social networks
• women's friendship

Notes

Roseneil (2006:333), however, has drawn attention to the normalizing effect of the term “families of choice” used to describe lesbian and gay friendship networks, pointing out that it serves to direct attention away from the extra-familial, counter-heteronormative nature of many of these relationships.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jane Traies

Jane Traies had a long career in public education before returning to full-time study in her sixties. She gained her Ph.D. from the University of Sussex in 2014. Jane has been active in the lesbian community for many years and is currently a named supporter of SAND (Safe Ageing No Discrimination).