1. Working with Gypsy and Traveller communities
January 2017
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2. Gypsy and traveller communities: a taboo area?
Discussions around the gypsy and traveller communities in the UK are ones that are often considered very sensitive: in fact, the concerns about offending the group being discussed can weigh so heavily on the minds of practitioners that the area is often considered to be taboo.
However, the fear of this ‘taboo’ subject is rooted in a lack of understanding of this community and it’s particular features, and as such many are unsure what is the appropriate way to begin any discussion involving gypsy and traveller communities.
This best practise guidance aims to dispel some of this confusion and provide support and guidance for advisers wishing to do work in this area.
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3. BAME BAME is an acronym for: Black Asian, Minority Ethnic
Gypsies and Travellers are technically a BAME community, and are protected as such under UK law.
When discussing Gypsy and Traveller communities, many of the issues we face when trying to engage with them are also found – to greater or lesser degrees - in other BAME communities within the UK.
There are several distinct sub-types of Gypsy and Traveller, with quite a few pronounced differences. There are estimated to be 300,000 in the UK (0.5%).
There are several indicators – social, economic, health – that provide evidence that members of this group are significantly disadvantaged compared to members outside it.
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4. Barriers we find in BAME communities
An intrinsically cash-centric culture.
A society that revolves around religious belief.
A distrust of British authorities.
Evidence of gender bias and discrimination.
Isolated communities.
Low levels of literacy.
Intradependence: very close-knit, extended families.
Early marriage and large families.
A cultural focus on honour and shame.
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5. Barriers unique to Gypsy and Traveller communities
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6. How do we break down these barriers?
The gypsy race is an old-fashioned and, sadly, a very bitter one. They live, breathe, sleep, grieve, love and care for only their own people. They don't like or trust the ways of others and don't have contact or friendships with other races, afraid that one day they will be forced to turn their backs on their once proud way of life and become like any other.
Quote source: Gypsy Boy by Mikey Walsh
Mikey Walsh grew up in a gypsy community, and was in fact a champion bare-knuckle fighter. He left when still a teenager as he was gay and that was not well-accepted by this community. More info can be found at

7. How do we break down these barriers?
Step One – Review your existing knowledge and skills
Do you already have experience of working with BAME communities?
Identify partners and trusted intermediaries
Have you had experience of delivering basic skills training to people who are unable to read and write English?
Have you talked with an experienced trainer about their work with this community?
Do some research about BAME communities in your local area
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8. How do we break down these barriers?
Step Two – Review your service and take steps to make it more accessible
Carry out a review
Identify partners and trusted intermediaries
Your local authority
Health professionals (specialist health visitors)
Provide specific support for clients with low levels of literacy
Provide flexibility and assistance with appointments
Prepare and display targeted publicity materials
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9. How do we break down these barriers?
Step Three – Provide a specific service for Gypsy and Travellers
Make direct links
Community development and engagement work
Celebrate Gypsy and Traveller History Month
Advice surgeries (alone or in partnership)
Building trust through campaigning and joint action
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10. How do we break down these barriers?
Step Four – Develop a dedicated outreach and support service
Advice Hub/Network Expert
Outreach advice service
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11. Thanks for listening!

12. Our team David Mahon Forums / Training & resources Hannah Luck
Hannah Luck
Forums / Communication & information
Basam Diablos
Financial capability development consultant
Christy McAleese
Service Delivery and Contract Manager-Financial Capability

13. Presented by:
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