As part of our commitment to raise awareness of disengaged and under-represented groups, today’s information focuses on Gypsy Roma Travellers.
Did you know that in Europe, gypsies are the fastest growing ethnic minority?
It is thought that there are around 12 million Gypsy Roma Travellers across Europe, with 300,000 living in the UK. However, the category ‘Gypsy/Irish Traveller’ only featured in the UK Census for the first time in 2011, thus formally recognising the GRT community.
Gypsy Roma Travellers are often marginalised by society and regularly face discrimination. A 2007 survey found that nine out of ten gypsy children have experienced racial abuse with two thirds of respondents having been bullied or physically attacked. A lack of access to education and health services contribute to achievement levels which are among the lowest of all ethnic minority groups.
Each June is Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month which celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Gypsy Roma Travellers across the country. In Wales, the main celebration event will take place on Monday 25 June at St David’s Hall, Cardiff between 10.00 and 16.00. It is free to attend and will feature films, live performances, art, and exhibitions that showcase the cultural diversity of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community in Wales. You can read more about GRT History Month here.
