The term Gypsy, Roma Traveller refers to a number of quite different communities who share some similar characteristics, predominantly a travelling lifestyle or history of a travelling lifestyle.
Many Gypsy Roma and Travellers have ethnic minority status and are therefore protected under the Equality Act 2010. The main traveller groups are:
Romany Gypsies and Irish Travellers have been living in and visiting Salford for many generations. Travelling remains a recognised part of their heritage for some families, even if only for part of the year, alongside very specific social and cultural traditions.
Although some families still live in trailers on official traveller sites, as like the rest of the UK, the majority of the community in Salford now reside in 'bricks and mortar' accommodation.
The reason for this is largely attributed to need rather than choice, with a limited number of pitches nationally and locally.
Historically many of the Gypsy Roma Traveller communities have faced very high levels of discrimination and prejudice and unfortunately this still remains the case in many respects.
The situation is particularly difficult for Roma living in some Eastern European countries where they are often denied their rights to a decent education and standard of living simply because of their ethnicity.
Historical prejudice has also produced distrust and a fear of officialdom and the intentions of authorities in general which is hardly surprising.
Salford EMTAS offers the following advice, support and training to Salford primary and secondary schools with Gypsy Roma Traveller (GRT) learners:
All training sessions will include the following:
For more information please contact the EMTAS team on 0161 686 7229 or email emtas@salford.gov.uk.
This page was last updated on 9 July 2024