Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities
According to the 2021 Census from the Office for National Statistics, there are around 200 people in Rochdale borough who identify as Gypsy or Irish Traveller.
The JSNA approach to inequalities
One of the key components of the JSNA is to identify inequalities in health and wellbeing experienced by different population groups in the local authority area.
We're often reliant on research and studies at a national level in order to identify examples of these inequalities. The findings are then applied to our population structure and added to our own local evidence in order to understand the inequalities present in these populations at a local level.
Data availability on Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities
Rather than being a single group, the terms Gypsy, Roma and Traveller refer to a range of groups with different histories, cultures and beliefs (House of Commons Library, 2018).
Historically there have been gaps in the data on gypsy and traveller communities. However, the 2011 Census included an ethnic category to collect nationwide data on these communities for the first time.
Health issues seen in Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities
Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities experience some of the worst outcomes of any group across a wide range of indicators. A number of factors contribute to these groups experiencing poor outcomes including deprivation, social exclusion and discrimination.
Health outcomes, in particular, are amongst those affected and include higher rates of mortality, morbidity and long-term health conditions, low child immunisation levels and a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression. Further issues around poor health literacy and a lack of understanding and cultural awareness by health professionals are also thought to create barriers to accessing health care.
Statistics on Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities
- Office for National Statistics (ONS) Census 2021 Statistics - the 2021 Census remains the most up to date source of ethnicity data that covers the whole borough population and it's best accessed using the ONS Nomis platform.
- Office for National Statistics Cultural Identity Statistics - how people in the UK see themselves today in terms of ethnicity, sexual identity, religion and language, and how this has changed over time. It includes an article looking at the characteristics of Gypsy and Irish travellers based on data from the 2011 Census.
Guidance and information on Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities
- House of Commons briefing paper - Gypsies and Travellers - this briefing paper provides an overview of the key issues and policies relating to Gypsy and Traveller communities in England. It examines a range of issues including: inequalities, racial discrimination, accommodation needs, illegal encampments, health and education, employment rates, welfare reform and the criminal justice system.
- Gypsy and Traveller health: accommodation and living environment - a report by the Traveller Movement, looking at how the living conditions of Gypsies and Travellers lead to poor health.