Across the UK, Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) communities continue to face stark and persistent inequalities, despite legal protections under the Equality Act 2010, which recognises Romany Gypsies and Irish Travellers as distinct ethnic groups. This means they are protected under the Act from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation on the grounds of race, including ethnic origin and nationality.
Yet, being covered in law has not translated into lived equality. From education and health to policing and housing, systemic inequality and state-led discrimination remain widespread. It’s time to raise awareness, amplify good practice, and take action to embed inclusion and justice for all GRT people.
How Traveller Communities Are Protected by the Equality Act 2010
The Equality Act 2010 provides protection against discrimination on the grounds of race, which includes:
- Romany Gypsies (recognised since Commission for Racial Equality v Dutton, 1989)
- Irish Travellers (recognised in O’Leary and others v Punch Retail, 2000)
While other nomadic groups such as New Travellers, Liveaboard Boaters, and Travelling Showpeople may not fall under the race provisions, they are still entitled to human rights, fair treatment, and equitable service provision.
Current Inequalities Facing GRT Communities
The 2025 briefing by Friends, Families and Travellers (FFT) paints a disturbing picture of entrenched disadvantage:
Criminalisation of Traditional Living
- Part 4 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act (2022) introduced criminal offences for “intentional trespass” when someone resides on land with vehicles. This includes:
- Seizure of homes and possessions (e.g. caravans).
- Fines and imprisonment.
- Banning individuals from an area for up to 12 months.
- High Court Ruling (2024): Declared these provisions incompatible with human rights, particularly Articles 8 and 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
Health Disparities
- GRT communities experience poorer health outcomes than any other ethnic group in the UK.
- Life expectancy is significantly lower, with limited access to GP services due to discrimination or lack of fixed address.
Educational Exclusion
- GRT pupils are among the lowest achieving ethnic groups.
- High exclusion rates, bullying, and a lack of culturally relevant curriculum are major barriers.
Disproportionate Policing
- Despite the existence of robust civil powers, police have used criminal powers disproportionately against GRT encampments.
- Over 93% of police forces opposed criminalising unauthorised encampments, favouring site provision instead.
Lack of Stopping Sites
- The biggest cause of conflict stems from lack of authorised sites. Families are pushed into unauthorised encampments due to no alternative.
- Local authorities have largely failed to deliver on site obligations.
How Communities and Services Can Do Better
Support must move from punitive to preventative. That means taking a rights-based, anti-racist, and culturally competent approach. Here’s how:
Do’s
- Respect legal status: Understand that Romany Gypsies and Irish Travellers are protected ethnic groups under the Equality Act 2010.
- Engage meaningfully: Co-produce policies and plans with GRT voices, not just about them.
- Provide sites: Campaign and plan for adequate, culturally appropriate site provision.
- Train staff: Educate public service staff on unconscious bias, Traveller rights, and anti-racist practice.
- Use inclusive language: Refer to communities using terms they identify with and avoid stereotypes.
- Embed data collection: Include GRT categories in ethnicity monitoring for better evidence and action.
- Celebrate culture: Include Traveller voices, stories and contributions in arts, history, and local festivals.
Don’ts
- Don’t assume all Travellers are the same – recognise the diversity within and between groups.
- Don’t stereotype: Avoid language linking GRT groups with criminality or “anti-social behaviour”.
- Don’t ignore complaints of racism or discrimination – take all reports seriously.
- Don’t criminalise a way of life due to a lack of council planning or support.
- Don’t exclude Traveller children based on appearance, attendance, or cultural assumptions.
Spotlight on Good Practice
Friends, Families and Travellers provide legal support, education resources, and advice lines, and actively challenge unjust laws through strategic litigation.
Bristol City Council has implemented inclusive planning and site provision policies through co-production with local Traveller groups.
NHS England has piloted health access initiatives for nomadic groups by using mobile health clinics and culturally competent liaison roles.
Schools like St. Paul’s in Manchester have worked with local Traveller Education Services to celebrate GRT History Month and reduce exclusions.
Conclusion
GRT communities are part of the rich cultural fabric of the UK, yet they face persistent exclusion. Recognising their legal protections is just the beginning, we must move towards systemic inclusion, genuine equity, and a cultural shift in how society views and supports nomadic traditions.
If we believe in equality, dignity and fairness, we cannot remain silent about the discrimination GRT people face. It’s time to act.
Want to be an ally? Connect with FFT at www.gypsy-traveller.org or start by checking your own organisation against the do’s and don’ts above.