‘Stark and shocking’ inequality faced by Gypsies, Roma and Travellers

A cross-party group of Lords peers are calling for the government to address widespread inequalities faced by Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) people.

The House of Lords Public Services Committee say GRT people are facing distinct discrimination in accessing public services after hearing ‘stark and shocking’ evidence from representatives.

GRT communities struggle to access housing, healthcare and education, leading the committee to challenge government ministers to tackle these issues.

The committee have now written a letter to Michael Gove, Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Secretary, asking why government and councils have failed to provide authorised sites for Gypsies and Travellers, including permanent and negotiated stopping sites.

Data reveals that 10,000 Gypsies and Travellers in England currently live at the roadside due to a shortage in stopping sites, with many struggling to access basic amenities.

A letter has also been sent to Professor Sir Chris Witty, the Chief Medical Officer, to discuss life expectancy of GRT people which is thought to be around 10-25 years less than the general population.

The committee are also calling on the government and councils to ensure authorised sites have sufficient digital provision so people can use online public services and ensure providers are supported to tailor services to GRT people.

Baroness Armstrong, Chair of the Public Services Committee, said: ‘It is unclear what the government is doing to address the inequalities faced by Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities. Its ‘levelling up’ plan mentions the Romans three times but there’s not a word about Roma or Romany people or Travellers.

‘Appropriate provision of sites is the first step in addressing unequal access to and experience of public services such as health and education.

‘The causes of the appalling and unacceptable disparity in life expectancy among GRT communities should be addressed urgently.

‘Education is central to social inclusion and wellbeing, but GRT children historically have been left behind. The barriers they face, including discrimination and bullying at school and a lack of suitable job opportunities afterwards, should cause the government deep concern.’

Photo by Johann Walter Bantz