East Dunbartonshire Council is hosting two discussion groups to help better identify the unmet health and wellbeing needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people over 50 who live in the area. It is estimated between five and seven per cent of the population are lesbian, gay or bisexual. This equates to one in every fifteen people, or over 7,000 East Dunbartonshire residents, with over 26 per cent of that group aged over 60. Evidence shows that older LGBT people have an increased likelihood of living alone and an increased need to be supported through older adult services, but it also identifies many reasons why people are less likely to access the services they could benefit from. The Council, along with the Community Health Partnership, has commissioned LGBT Scotland to carry out a programme of work to find out more about the views and needs of older LGBT residents. Two LGBT-specific events are being held in Bearsden and Kirkintilloch this month to ask older LGBT residents what information, opportunities or services they feel are missing and to identify improvements to services for LGBT people in East Dunbartonshire. Councillor Michael O'Donnell, Convenor of Social Work for East Dunbartonshire Council said, "The needs and concerns of members of the older LGBT community have gradually become more understood over recent years but there may be many people who are not connected to the advice, support or services they require "These two discussion groups will be a chance for people to share their views and experiences in a safe and relaxed environment, so that this important information can be used to inform recommendations to the Council on services and health and wellbeing opportunities in the area. I would urge as many people as possible to take part in the discussion groups and have their say on shaping future services." The first group will take place between 3.30pm - 5.30pm on Friday 25 April at Westerton Hall in Bearsden. This will be followed by an event on Wednesday 30 April at East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action, 18-20 Townhead, Kirkintilloch between 3.30pm - 5.30pm. For more information or to attend one of the discussion group events, email brandilee.loughdennell@lgbtyouth.org.uk or telephone 0141 552 7425.