Posted on: 29 January 2025
On 27 January 2025, Leeds Gypsy & Traveller Exchange (Leeds GATE) hosted an insightful training session in Bradford, shedding light on the lives, culture, and challenges faced by Gypsy and Traveller communities. Organised by our Improving Population Health Function, the session aimed to deepen understanding and promote inclusion for these often-marginalised groups.
Topics explored included:
- the history and culture of Gypsy and Traveller communities
- the wider determinants of health and their impact
- physical and mental health disparities
- strategies for improving access and inclusion in health services
Leeds GATE, a grassroots organisation led by Gypsy and Traveller people, works to improve access to homes, health, education, employment and inclusion in society. Participants gained valuable insight into the historical context, systemic inequalities, and barriers experienced by these communities.
A striking takeaway from the session highlighted community struggles, such as shorter life expectancy, higher suicide rates and discrimination. Attendees also explored ways to better support Gypsy and Traveller populations by fostering inclusion health, access to healthcare and addressing prejudice.
Huma Malik, Insight and Evaluation officer, who attended the event said: “The training offered a profound understanding of the history and diversity of Gypsies and Travellers, highlighting the unique experiences, identities, and cultural distinctions. It provided a powerful and firsthand insight into the stark inequalities these communities face. The session also emphasised the importance of exploring ways to improve access to services and foster inclusion for all.”
Rachel Cooper, Director of Development, who co-delivered the training said – “This training is an invaluable starting point from which to take action and reduce the inequalities Gypsies and Travellers face. We thoroughly enjoyed spending the time with staff from West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, who were so passionate and insightful about how they might bring about change through their roles.”
If you want to find out more about the training and have suggestions for other teams who may benefit from it please get in touch with Rachel at rachel.