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Gypsies and Travellers

Leeds Baseline Census 2004-2005

Maureen Baker MBE, Chairperson of the Race Equality Advisory Forum Gypsies and Travellers Working Group, has completed an excellent piece of Research which provides baseline demographic data about the Gypsy and Traveller communities in Leeds. It also acts as an exemplary model of community based research.

It is particularly timely in light of the statutory duty on local and regional authorities under the Housing Act 2004 and Planning Act 2004 to assess Gypsy and Traveller accommodation needs and develop strategies to meet those needs.

Maureen has analysed the Census data and compared it with comparative data from the settled population in Leeds and has revealed the stark contrast in health and life opportunities for Gypsies and Travellers. For example the life expectancy for the general population in Leeds is 78 and for Gypsies and Travellers it is 50.

Maureen has made a series of recommendations to address these serious findings

Accommodation:

  • The need for 5 small permanent sites for 8/10 families to accommodate the 42 families currently living on the roadside with no facilities
  • The need for 5 transit sites for families visiting Leeds to avoid unauthorised camping
  • The need for politicians across the political spectrum to lead public opinion and the media to present balanced reports
  • The Gypsy and Traveller communities to engage with the settled communities to build understanding and trust

Health

  • Primary Care Trusts, Social Services and local authority establish small task forces with community members to positively implement culturally sensitive health and social care policies
  • The Health Bus adapted to cater more effectively with the needs of the community
  • One Stop Shop in south Leeds with health facilities and advisory/training resources
  • Changing the culture and ethos of health and social care providers

All professional involved should be cognisant of the affect of racism, poor education and accommodation on health and adjust their policies and practices accordingly.

The Race Equality Council, with some funding support from the Leeds City Council Equalities Unit, enabled this research to be undertaken.

To receive a copy of the Report please send £5 payable to the Leeds Racial Equality Council to their offices at:

Leeds REC,
Sheepscar House,
15 Sheepscar Street South,
Leeds LS7 1AD

or it can be downloaded here.

Download report

 

Also see

Famous Gypsies and Roma

Artists, Writers, Scientists, Actors & Actresses, Musicians & Singers, Nobel Prizes, Pioneers & Adventurers, Presidents of the Republic, Parliament Members, Preachers, War Heroes, Journalists, Fashion Designer, Sport... If you weren't aware of the contributions Gypsy and Roma people have made follow the link below.

Visit website

Also read about

The Last 'Respectable' form of Racism

CRE says discrimination against Gypsies and Travellers is the last 'respectable' form of racism.

The Commission for Racial Equality launched its strategy on Gypsies and Travellers following two months of consultation with Gypsies and Travellers, community and public organisations and local authorities.

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