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Welcome to the national Federation of gypsy liaison groups
Please note the new e-mail address for NFGLG is natglg@outlook.com
On 14 March the Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) launched the cross government Integrated Communities Strategy Green Paper. The consultation on the Green Paper ends on 5 June and it is open to everyone. MHCLG are keen to hear from a wide range of interested parties.
The attached toolkit here aims to raise awareness of the consultation and encourages groups and individuals to respond to it. It provides tips on how you can set up your own conversations with members of your community or other interested parties, and summarises the Green Paper’s themes, proposals and consultation questions.
Responses to the consultation will inform MHCLG's thinking and will help Ministers make decisions on future policy development. The Government expects to publish a response to the consultation later this year, setting out what respondents have said, and how it proposes to move forward.
We hope that you find this resource helpful and would encourage you to share it with anyone else who might be interested in putting forward a response.
More information about the Integrated Communities Strategy Green Paper can be found the MHCLGrwebsite at: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/integrated-communities-strategy-green-paper.
The attached toolkit here aims to raise awareness of the consultation and encourages groups and individuals to respond to it. It provides tips on how you can set up your own conversations with members of your community or other interested parties, and summarises the Green Paper’s themes, proposals and consultation questions.
Responses to the consultation will inform MHCLG's thinking and will help Ministers make decisions on future policy development. The Government expects to publish a response to the consultation later this year, setting out what respondents have said, and how it proposes to move forward.
We hope that you find this resource helpful and would encourage you to share it with anyone else who might be interested in putting forward a response.
More information about the Integrated Communities Strategy Green Paper can be found the MHCLGrwebsite at: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/integrated-communities-strategy-green-paper.
Joint submission to UN Rapporteur on Gypsy Traveller Roma issues in UK
To view the joint submission from Friends, Families and Travellers and the National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups to the UN Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance click here.
To view the joint submission from Friends, Families and Travellers and the National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups to the UN Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance click here.
NGO survey questionnaire: Evaluation of the EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies up to 2020
The purpose of this survey is to complement a study entitled ‘Mid-term evaluation of the EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies (NRIS) up to 2020’. The study aims to assess the implementation status of the EU Framework across 27 Member States since 2011. In particular, its objective is to measure the extent to which the goal of improving Roma access to education, employment, healthcare and housing has been achieved in the EU.
This survey is specifically targeted at NGOs, to allow those NGOs that work on Roma issues to contribute their experience and insight to the evaluation.
The survey is open until 9th February 2018.
To complete it go to https://www.surveygizmo.eu/s3/90063454/Survey-questionnaire-NGOs
The purpose of this survey is to complement a study entitled ‘Mid-term evaluation of the EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies (NRIS) up to 2020’. The study aims to assess the implementation status of the EU Framework across 27 Member States since 2011. In particular, its objective is to measure the extent to which the goal of improving Roma access to education, employment, healthcare and housing has been achieved in the EU.
This survey is specifically targeted at NGOs, to allow those NGOs that work on Roma issues to contribute their experience and insight to the evaluation.
The survey is open until 9th February 2018.
To complete it go to https://www.surveygizmo.eu/s3/90063454/Survey-questionnaire-NGOs
"Funding opportunity from DCLG"
Re: Fund to improve the outcomes of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities
The Department for Communities and Local Government, in collaboration with the Department for Education and the Department of Health, intends to run a pilot programme of work to improve the outcomes of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities.
We are looking for six pilot projects in the areas of community cohesion, educational attainment and health outcomes, and welcome bids from organisations with the vision and capability to deliver such interventions. To be eligible to receive the grant, an organisation must be a registered charity or have a charitable purpose. The successful bidder will also need to have a demonstrable record in delivering projects and working with Gypsy, Roma or Traveller communities, and have a credible community presence.
The deadline for application is 18 February 2018. To apply, please complete the application form from here, and return it by the deadline to integration@communities.gsi.gov.uk. Please ensure you quote ref. “GRT fund” in your subject heading.
We strongly encourage all applicants to familiarise themselves with the programme specifications (Download here) and the weighting of the selection criteria (Download here) before submitting a formal bid.
All bidders will have the opportunity to receive impartial feedback on one draft application from officials in one of the three Departments; if this is of interest, please email integration@communities.gsi.gov.uk by 4 February 2018.
To support bidders with their applications, we are also organising a workshop on 19 January, 2:30-5pm. To reserve a place, please email integration@communities.gsi.gov.uk.
We recommend you publish the above message, along with the attached supporting documents, on your organisations’ websites, and maintain it for a period of at least two weeks.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards
Julia Minulescu
Integration and Faith Division
Department for Communities and Local Government
E: integration@communities.gsi.gov.uk
Re: Fund to improve the outcomes of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities
The Department for Communities and Local Government, in collaboration with the Department for Education and the Department of Health, intends to run a pilot programme of work to improve the outcomes of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities.
We are looking for six pilot projects in the areas of community cohesion, educational attainment and health outcomes, and welcome bids from organisations with the vision and capability to deliver such interventions. To be eligible to receive the grant, an organisation must be a registered charity or have a charitable purpose. The successful bidder will also need to have a demonstrable record in delivering projects and working with Gypsy, Roma or Traveller communities, and have a credible community presence.
The deadline for application is 18 February 2018. To apply, please complete the application form from here, and return it by the deadline to integration@communities.gsi.gov.uk. Please ensure you quote ref. “GRT fund” in your subject heading.
We strongly encourage all applicants to familiarise themselves with the programme specifications (Download here) and the weighting of the selection criteria (Download here) before submitting a formal bid.
All bidders will have the opportunity to receive impartial feedback on one draft application from officials in one of the three Departments; if this is of interest, please email integration@communities.gsi.gov.uk by 4 February 2018.
To support bidders with their applications, we are also organising a workshop on 19 January, 2:30-5pm. To reserve a place, please email integration@communities.gsi.gov.uk.
We recommend you publish the above message, along with the attached supporting documents, on your organisations’ websites, and maintain it for a period of at least two weeks.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards
Julia Minulescu
Integration and Faith Division
Department for Communities and Local Government
E: integration@communities.gsi.gov.uk
'Tales From The Trailers' Accommodation, Health, Education and Mobility - TRAINING DAY
The Romani Cultural & Arts Company are pleased to welcome participants on 27th February 2018, to a training day offering ‘an insider’s guide to effectively working with Romani and Traveller communities'.
The Romani Cultural & Arts Company is unique - a Gypsy, Roma & Traveller led organisation that develops the community it serves the communities from the inside-out. We provide a deeper insights into working with Romani and Traveller communities, in ways that are intended to enhance, improve and support delivery of services by your organisation, in ways no other training can.
Who should attend this training?
This course is essential for anyone interested in ensuring that their services are inclusive and accessible for the Romani and Traveller communities. It would be particularly useful for those who work in planning, housing and accommodation, equality, health, education, social services and the early years.
Why should you attend this training?
It will support you to:
• Ensure effective engagement with the Romani andTraveller communities in your local area, whilst improving your knowledge of the complex cultural and historical issues that impact upon the relationships you wish to build, to improve service delivery;
• Be understanding and informed in your interactions with people from the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities
• Be better able to assess the service needs that address the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities in Wales
Aims
By the end the session participants will have:
There will only be 50 places available so please book early to avoid disappointment. The cost for the day (to include light refreshments & lunch) is £145 per participant, if you book before the Wednesday 31st January and £160 per participant if you book between Thursday 1st February and Monday 26th February 2018.
Places will only be secured with a confirmed payment.
The venue will be in Bangor, North Wales at The Management Centre, Bangor Business School, College Road, Bangor LL57 2DG (Room D0:08) on Tuesday 27th February 2018.
The day will start at 09:30 and finish at 16:30, with refreshments included for the workshop participants.
Please email for a booking form to: training@romaniarts.co.uk
We look forward to hearing from you,
Kushti Bok; be well
Good luck and good health
TRAINING
The Romani Cultural and Arts Company
Temple Court
13a Cathedral Road
Cardiff
CF11 9HA
Tel: 02920 786 439
Mob: 07854 412 097
Email: training@romaniarts.co.uk
The Romani Cultural & Arts Company are pleased to welcome participants on 27th February 2018, to a training day offering ‘an insider’s guide to effectively working with Romani and Traveller communities'.
The Romani Cultural & Arts Company is unique - a Gypsy, Roma & Traveller led organisation that develops the community it serves the communities from the inside-out. We provide a deeper insights into working with Romani and Traveller communities, in ways that are intended to enhance, improve and support delivery of services by your organisation, in ways no other training can.
Who should attend this training?
This course is essential for anyone interested in ensuring that their services are inclusive and accessible for the Romani and Traveller communities. It would be particularly useful for those who work in planning, housing and accommodation, equality, health, education, social services and the early years.
Why should you attend this training?
It will support you to:
• Ensure effective engagement with the Romani andTraveller communities in your local area, whilst improving your knowledge of the complex cultural and historical issues that impact upon the relationships you wish to build, to improve service delivery;
• Be understanding and informed in your interactions with people from the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities
• Be better able to assess the service needs that address the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities in Wales
Aims
- To increase awareness about the cultural, ethnic and historical diversity in Wales;
- to address the issues, obstacles faced by and the needs of Romani and Travellers in Wales;
- to encourage innovation and improvement in the delivery of services and provision to Romani and Traveller communities, and
- to build trust and cooperation between Romani and Traveller communities and local authority and other sector service providers.
- To achieve a broader and more comprehensive understanding of the needs of GRT communities, from a local authority perspective;
- To develop a level of knowledge that will enhance and inform local authority officers’ interactions with individuals and groups from the GRT communities in their areas and localities;
- To introduce knowledge regarding the important differences between Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities and their cultures, languages and origins, insofar as is useful to participants in the training, with the aim of inspiring best practice and improving service delivery;
- To introduce to participants examples of community members who are role models and who can challenge the prevailing stereotypes of Gypsies and Travellers or the negative images of Roma, present in media and popular press.
By the end the session participants will have:
- Increased their knowledge of the culture, traditions and history of the Romani and Traveller communities (this includes a timeline of key historical events and legislation);
- Developed an understanding of diversity within the Romani and Traveller communities (including addressing the questions of who are Gypsies, Roma and Travellers?);
- Increased their awareness regarding the obstacles, prejudice and discrimination faced by Romani and Traveller communities in Wales more widely across the UK and across Europe;
- Identified obstacles to access and attitudinal issues or barriers in accessing education, health, employment, accommodation, justice and other public services, that inhibit the delivery of quality provision to Romania and Traveller people communities;
- Improved participants’ understandings of how to engage effectively with the Romani and Traveller communities and what they can do to prevent exclusion and ensure inclusion in the delivery of their services;
- Developed an approach that will put their learning into practice, in the workplace;
- Established a baseline of knowledge and support that can be accessed to assist other staff, officers and co-workers.
There will only be 50 places available so please book early to avoid disappointment. The cost for the day (to include light refreshments & lunch) is £145 per participant, if you book before the Wednesday 31st January and £160 per participant if you book between Thursday 1st February and Monday 26th February 2018.
Places will only be secured with a confirmed payment.
The venue will be in Bangor, North Wales at The Management Centre, Bangor Business School, College Road, Bangor LL57 2DG (Room D0:08) on Tuesday 27th February 2018.
The day will start at 09:30 and finish at 16:30, with refreshments included for the workshop participants.
Please email for a booking form to: training@romaniarts.co.uk
We look forward to hearing from you,
Kushti Bok; be well
Good luck and good health
TRAINING
The Romani Cultural and Arts Company
Temple Court
13a Cathedral Road
Cardiff
CF11 9HA
Tel: 02920 786 439
Mob: 07854 412 097
Email: training@romaniarts.co.uk
No Space for Hate Event, Birmingham 15th September 2017
The National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups held a very successful and well-attended event at Highgate Baptist Church in Birmingham on 15th September as the culmination of our "No Space for Hate" project in Birmingham. Speakers included representatives from the Crown Prosecution Service, West Midlands Police, Hertfordshire Gypsy and Traveller Empowerment, Derbyshire Gypsy Liaison Group, Victim Support, Hope Not Hate, Love Your Neighbour and brap. This project, which brought people from different ethnic and faith communities together to address the causes and effects of hate crime and examine what we can do to counter it, is one on which we intend to build.
Photographs below show the fantastic art installation on the Holocaust and present day Hate Crime by young local artist Chantelle Boyle as well as a section of the audience on the day.
Photographs below show the fantastic art installation on the Holocaust and present day Hate Crime by young local artist Chantelle Boyle as well as a section of the audience on the day.
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“Listen to the voice of the young Gypsy and Travellers what does the future holds for them.” Thursday 26th October 2017
‘GATE’ (Gypsy and Traveller Equality) are holding a unique training event, giving an opportunity to listen to the voice of young Gypsies and Travellers and what the future holds for them. Following a very successful event held earlier this year, which was over-subscribed, early booking is recommended.
Download the flyer here
Pauline Burton
Gypsy and Travellers Liaison Officer
Multi Agency Travellers Unit
Beaumont Lodge Centre
Leicester E4 1EF
0116 3055427
07534713633
pauline.burton@leics.gov.uk
‘GATE’ (Gypsy and Traveller Equality) are holding a unique training event, giving an opportunity to listen to the voice of young Gypsies and Travellers and what the future holds for them. Following a very successful event held earlier this year, which was over-subscribed, early booking is recommended.
Download the flyer here
Pauline Burton
Gypsy and Travellers Liaison Officer
Multi Agency Travellers Unit
Beaumont Lodge Centre
Leicester E4 1EF
0116 3055427
07534713633
pauline.burton@leics.gov.uk
NO PLACE FOR HATE
Friday 15th September, 3-5pm at Highgate Baptist Church, Conybere Street, Birmingham B12 0YL
Download the flyer here and agenda here
Friday 15th September, 3-5pm at Highgate Baptist Church, Conybere Street, Birmingham B12 0YL
Download the flyer here and agenda here
Major New European Study
NFGLG have been involved in a major study for the Open Society European Policy Institute: “REVISITING THE EU ROMA FRAMEWORK: Assessing the European Dimension for the Post-2020 Future”
To find out more go to our “Europe” page.
NFGLG have been involved in a major study for the Open Society European Policy Institute: “REVISITING THE EU ROMA FRAMEWORK: Assessing the European Dimension for the Post-2020 Future”
To find out more go to our “Europe” page.
A message from Travelling Ahead - Download flyer here
Travelling Ahead now has new funding to develop a Wales Advice and Advocacy Service for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities (young people and families) around Wales – we can offer advice, advocacy and support on a whole range of issues and will find someone who can help if we can’t. For a summary of the new project have a look here http://www.travellingahead.org.uk/rights-advice/wales-advice-advocacy-service
As part of this we have a new FREEPHONE Advice Line and have new team members based in the North and West starting soon as well as south Wales.
Please update your records or website directories to reflect the new project and our changed contact details – our website, FB and Twitter have stayed the same - and we look forward to working with you in the coming months
Travelling Ahead –
Telephone: Advice Line 0808 802 0025
Office: 01633 509 544
Email: travellingahead@trosgynnalplant.org.uk
Travelling Ahead now has new funding to develop a Wales Advice and Advocacy Service for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities (young people and families) around Wales – we can offer advice, advocacy and support on a whole range of issues and will find someone who can help if we can’t. For a summary of the new project have a look here http://www.travellingahead.org.uk/rights-advice/wales-advice-advocacy-service
As part of this we have a new FREEPHONE Advice Line and have new team members based in the North and West starting soon as well as south Wales.
Please update your records or website directories to reflect the new project and our changed contact details – our website, FB and Twitter have stayed the same - and we look forward to working with you in the coming months
Travelling Ahead –
Telephone: Advice Line 0808 802 0025
Office: 01633 509 544
Email: travellingahead@trosgynnalplant.org.uk
Combating Institutional Anti-Gypsyism: Responses and promising practices in the EU and selected Member States
NFGLG contributed, alongside partner organisations in Europe, to an action-focused report produced by CEPS (Centre for European Policy Studies). To find out more about the report (andfind a link so that you can download a copy) please go to the "Europe" page on this website.
NFGLG contributed, alongside partner organisations in Europe, to an action-focused report produced by CEPS (Centre for European Policy Studies). To find out more about the report (andfind a link so that you can download a copy) please go to the "Europe" page on this website.
Health on the margins: emerging practice in health access for excluded people 27 June 2017, Leeds
The urgent need to improve the health of marginalised people lies behind this Emerging practice conference. The vast disparity in outcomes between the relatively affluent and the marginalised is clearly evident in indicators for life expectancy, long term and life limiting conditions, and infant mortality. Gypsies and Travellers continue to experience difficulties in navigating health services, and health and social care professionals often find these communities ‘hard to reach.’ The theme of the conference is about finding common ground between marginalised groups and using that common ground to make healthcare more accessible. Research and practice examples will be key to the conference. The conference is hosted by Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Exchange. Check out further details, and on-line booking, at www.ccclimited.org.uk. There are discounts for team bookings and for small charities, as well as opportunities to exhibit and sponsor. If you have any questions, call Central Conference Consultants Ltd on 0115 916 3104 or email conferences@ccclimited.org.uk.
I look forward to seeing you at the conference.
Yours sincerely Helen Jones Chief Executive, Leeds Gypsy & Traveller Exchange
The urgent need to improve the health of marginalised people lies behind this Emerging practice conference. The vast disparity in outcomes between the relatively affluent and the marginalised is clearly evident in indicators for life expectancy, long term and life limiting conditions, and infant mortality. Gypsies and Travellers continue to experience difficulties in navigating health services, and health and social care professionals often find these communities ‘hard to reach.’ The theme of the conference is about finding common ground between marginalised groups and using that common ground to make healthcare more accessible. Research and practice examples will be key to the conference. The conference is hosted by Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Exchange. Check out further details, and on-line booking, at www.ccclimited.org.uk. There are discounts for team bookings and for small charities, as well as opportunities to exhibit and sponsor. If you have any questions, call Central Conference Consultants Ltd on 0115 916 3104 or email conferences@ccclimited.org.uk.
I look forward to seeing you at the conference.
Yours sincerely Helen Jones Chief Executive, Leeds Gypsy & Traveller Exchange
The National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups -Gypsy & Traveller Legal Update Course March 9 th 9.30- 4.30 Friends Meeting House, 173-177 Euston Road, London
This course (funded by the Law Society Charity) aims to bring delegates up to date with the law concerning: planning; rented sites; unauthorised encampments; homelessness; legal aid and other issues. It will explain the increasing differences between the situation in England and in Wales. There will be a discussion of the controversial new definition of Gypsy and Traveller for planning purposes.
The trainers:
Marc Willers QC of Garden Court Chambers
Tim Jones of No 5 Chambers
Chris Johnson of Community Law Partnership
The trainers are 3 of the leading experts in this area of the law and are co-authors (with others) of the Legal Action book Gypsy and Traveller Law. They and their colleagues are working on a third edition of the book.
Please note that availability is limited to 2 people per organisation. (Registered members with NFGLG obtain one place free). Places are limited so please follow the link here to download a booking form. Please complete the form in block capitals and return it to natglg@outlook.com by 3rd March 2017
Notes from the training day can be found on the planning page
This course (funded by the Law Society Charity) aims to bring delegates up to date with the law concerning: planning; rented sites; unauthorised encampments; homelessness; legal aid and other issues. It will explain the increasing differences between the situation in England and in Wales. There will be a discussion of the controversial new definition of Gypsy and Traveller for planning purposes.
The trainers:
Marc Willers QC of Garden Court Chambers
Tim Jones of No 5 Chambers
Chris Johnson of Community Law Partnership
The trainers are 3 of the leading experts in this area of the law and are co-authors (with others) of the Legal Action book Gypsy and Traveller Law. They and their colleagues are working on a third edition of the book.
Please note that availability is limited to 2 people per organisation. (Registered members with NFGLG obtain one place free). Places are limited so please follow the link here to download a booking form. Please complete the form in block capitals and return it to natglg@outlook.com by 3rd March 2017
Notes from the training day can be found on the planning page
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Obituary: President of NFGLG. Peter Mercer MBE:
(22.1. 1934 - 17.1.2017) I am sure that Peter Mercer will be remembered and loved by his family and many friends because of his stature and dignity as a wonderful person and human being. To a much wider world Peter will be remembered for being a leading civil rights activist for the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities of the United Kingdom and all of Europe. Being of Romany Gypsy heritage himself gave him a natural authority and creditability with his communities and indeed the wider world. Peter often spoke of his challenging experiences as a child when he was placed in a boarding home run by Catholic nuns. He described the harsh treatment he and his peers frequently received but in later life he was able to overcome the disadvantages and trauma of some of his early childhood years as witnessed by his stories shared with much laughter on how he and his friends would get their own back on the nuns with pranks and deceptions. In similar relaxed social settings Peter would also talk of his time in the army and his posting to Gibraltar and Cyprus. His reflections again told of his wonderful sense of humour and generosity of spirit. As a young Romany person these intense experiences in the Gaujo (non-Gypsy) world taught him rudely about the ubiquitous race prejudice towards his cultural and ethnic status, but at the same time, provided him with the enviable skill of knowing and understanding both sides of a situation or argument. This stood him in good stead for all the subsequent years when he had to deal with so many conflict situations to seek resolution and peaceful outcomes. This skill, together with his diplomatic style and ambassadorial confidence, was to be seen in effective operation when Peter worked as a Traveller Community Liaison |
Officer for the Peterborough City Council, as well as when challenging government ministers over sites as the leader of the East Anglia Gypsy Council, which he established, and in many foreign capitals across Central and Eastern Europe. The same skills came to the fore when Peter was acting on behalf of community members in the courts of law or when providing expert testimony before judges when major decisions were being taking related to Gypsy ethnic status and human rights. In the case of the Commission for Racial Equality v. Dutton in 1989, in which Peter’s evidence was critical to the judgement, Gypsy ethnic minority status was legitimised which gave this marginalised community protection under the Race Relations Acts.
When many men would wisely be seeking retirement, Peter became fully involved in the civil and human rights work for Gypsy, Roma and Travellers across Europe. He attended literally hundreds of conferences, seminars and trainings together with organising study visits for young activists to places like Italy, Spain and Bulgaria. As chairperson of European Dialogue he worked tirelessly for ten or more years on projects across Europe concerned with Roma inclusion, human rights and education. These projects were frequently funded by the UK government, the EU and the National Lottery community programme.
Peter was always asked to sit on committees to represent the interests of his communities and always helped by bringing his vast in-depth and informed knowledge and understanding to the decisions that mattered. Such consultation groups were frequently set up by central government ministries including the Home Office, the Department of the Environment and the Department for Education. Peter was always keen on ensuring that members of his community had the right to a good education. He fought tirelessly for the education of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller children and young people. One of his contributions in this important area of rights was to be seen with his active participation in the Stakeholders Group in the Department of Education chaired by Lord Avebury in the period before that department lost interest in 2010 in the education of these vulnerable communities.
His personal achievements were phenomenal and I am sure he will be remembered for his monumental efforts and commitment over decades for justice and human rights for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities. The royal award of an MBE could not have been a more fitting tribute to his enormous contribution to public service in the broadest possible sense. I am still meeting people across Europe who remember him with such warmth and respect. He was known and loved by so many activists in this small world which has had to fight for so long and so hard against the mean distribution of justice by governments, public bodies and the media. But his advocacy was always so well judged, dignified and influential. I worked with Peter for many years and I will have nothing but respect and affection for him and his family and the warmest of happy memories. I still remind myself of the anecdote that when Peter ever arrived for a meeting a little late, which was frequently, he would always say, “I am sorry, but I was working on Gypsy time!”. He will be greatly missed.
Arthur Ivatts OBE
When many men would wisely be seeking retirement, Peter became fully involved in the civil and human rights work for Gypsy, Roma and Travellers across Europe. He attended literally hundreds of conferences, seminars and trainings together with organising study visits for young activists to places like Italy, Spain and Bulgaria. As chairperson of European Dialogue he worked tirelessly for ten or more years on projects across Europe concerned with Roma inclusion, human rights and education. These projects were frequently funded by the UK government, the EU and the National Lottery community programme.
Peter was always asked to sit on committees to represent the interests of his communities and always helped by bringing his vast in-depth and informed knowledge and understanding to the decisions that mattered. Such consultation groups were frequently set up by central government ministries including the Home Office, the Department of the Environment and the Department for Education. Peter was always keen on ensuring that members of his community had the right to a good education. He fought tirelessly for the education of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller children and young people. One of his contributions in this important area of rights was to be seen with his active participation in the Stakeholders Group in the Department of Education chaired by Lord Avebury in the period before that department lost interest in 2010 in the education of these vulnerable communities.
His personal achievements were phenomenal and I am sure he will be remembered for his monumental efforts and commitment over decades for justice and human rights for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities. The royal award of an MBE could not have been a more fitting tribute to his enormous contribution to public service in the broadest possible sense. I am still meeting people across Europe who remember him with such warmth and respect. He was known and loved by so many activists in this small world which has had to fight for so long and so hard against the mean distribution of justice by governments, public bodies and the media. But his advocacy was always so well judged, dignified and influential. I worked with Peter for many years and I will have nothing but respect and affection for him and his family and the warmest of happy memories. I still remind myself of the anecdote that when Peter ever arrived for a meeting a little late, which was frequently, he would always say, “I am sorry, but I was working on Gypsy time!”. He will be greatly missed.
Arthur Ivatts OBE
For me one of Peter’s greatest achievements was the Dutton case, 1989. This case proved that Romany Gypsy people should be classed as a minority group using the Mandla criteria. I feel that his involvement in this case has been little understood and overlooked at times by many and yet it is so important.
In 1994 I attended the first Roma and Gypsy Congress in Seville alongside Peter, we were proud to meet and speak with the Queen of Spain. It was a very memorable occasion, for the first time in Spain’s history the castle was open to Gypsy people and whilst the king and queen were in Seville. Peter was ecstatic.
Peter, Arthur, Sylvia Dunn and I insisted on visiting the people on sites in the city suburbs, they had not had an invite to the congress and there was a protest. The English contingent refused to ride in the luxury coach, quickly put on by the town council (we felt the money could have been more wisely spent) but made our own way to the site called La Paz. The taxi driver was agitated and said for us not to ring him to fetch us back. He promptly dropped us off at the end of a road and wouldn’t go close to the camp, never the less we persevered. Peter had been to many places like this across Eastern Europe, he carefully would work in his own way to make changes.
In 2000 Peter Received an MBE for his civil rights work, something of which he was extremely proud. Peter was still undertaking work and was advisor to many bodies. In 2005 Peter agreed to become chair of the National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups and continued to work towards improvement for the Gypsy community. Many Roma people who came to Britain in more recent years knew of Pete and remembered his work in their home countries. He would never undertake anything in a confrontational manner and achieved much by working in this way
Peter attended meetings in Brussels, even later on in years. His great love was mussels in a big dish. We would grab a larger table so I could sit far enough away from him so I wouldn’t be affected by the smell being highly allergic to shell fish, but it was the only thing that he demanded after a day full of meetings.
We made Peter president of NFGLG in 2014 and we shall all miss him greatly. We are thinking of his wife, Ruth and all of Peter’s children.
Siobhan Spencer MBE
Please also read Ryalla Duffy’s Obituary to Peter in Travellers Times here.
In 1994 I attended the first Roma and Gypsy Congress in Seville alongside Peter, we were proud to meet and speak with the Queen of Spain. It was a very memorable occasion, for the first time in Spain’s history the castle was open to Gypsy people and whilst the king and queen were in Seville. Peter was ecstatic.
Peter, Arthur, Sylvia Dunn and I insisted on visiting the people on sites in the city suburbs, they had not had an invite to the congress and there was a protest. The English contingent refused to ride in the luxury coach, quickly put on by the town council (we felt the money could have been more wisely spent) but made our own way to the site called La Paz. The taxi driver was agitated and said for us not to ring him to fetch us back. He promptly dropped us off at the end of a road and wouldn’t go close to the camp, never the less we persevered. Peter had been to many places like this across Eastern Europe, he carefully would work in his own way to make changes.
In 2000 Peter Received an MBE for his civil rights work, something of which he was extremely proud. Peter was still undertaking work and was advisor to many bodies. In 2005 Peter agreed to become chair of the National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups and continued to work towards improvement for the Gypsy community. Many Roma people who came to Britain in more recent years knew of Pete and remembered his work in their home countries. He would never undertake anything in a confrontational manner and achieved much by working in this way
Peter attended meetings in Brussels, even later on in years. His great love was mussels in a big dish. We would grab a larger table so I could sit far enough away from him so I wouldn’t be affected by the smell being highly allergic to shell fish, but it was the only thing that he demanded after a day full of meetings.
We made Peter president of NFGLG in 2014 and we shall all miss him greatly. We are thinking of his wife, Ruth and all of Peter’s children.
Siobhan Spencer MBE
Please also read Ryalla Duffy’s Obituary to Peter in Travellers Times here.
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Our Heritage Keeper- Gordon Boswell
A Poem for Gordon A limb has fallen from the family tree I keep hearing a voice that says: Grieve not for me, remember the best times. The laughter, the song, the good life I lived when I was strong. Continue my heritage, I’m counting on you. Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through. My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest. Remembering all, how I truly was blessed. Continue traditions, no matter how small, Go on with your life, and don’t just stare at the wall. I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin; until the day comes we’re together again (c) Boswell family Gypsy history is essentially an oral one, not set down in books and the Gaje community have had their own idea of Romany Gypsy people, often imagined and portrayed through art, poetry, literature and a plethora of research studies of people from the outside. Gordon felt it was important to record his own history, not just the Boswell family history but for the Gypsy community as a whole. Following in the steps of his father, he put work into collecting and maintaining the museum, which is now very impressive. Many who visited Gordon’s museum posted comments on trip advisor : “The large display is impressive “ “The Romany Museum is frankly a hidden treasure. It is a jewel in the countryside,” So long may Gordon and the Boswell family legacy remain. Gordon will be greatly missed. Siobhan Spencer |
UK Government Holocaust Memorial Foundation updated news on the heritage page
"Children Rewarded for Study"
Rooftop Housing Group and the Worcestershire Traveller Education Service (TES) have rewarded star pupils with laptops to help them study. Children from the Gypsy and Traveller community are amongst the lowest achieving groups in schools in England, with typically low attendance. The TES and Rooftop Housing Group have been working together to turn this trend around and to give children from the Houndsfield Lane community something to work towards. The project motivates children that fall below an 85% attendance rate to stay in school, and get the best opportunities that education can bring them. 5 Children who now have over 90% attendance were awarded laptops by Rooftop Housing Group’s Chief Executive Ian Hughes at a special ceremony held at Wythall Library. Tony Henderson Rooftops’ Gypsy and Traveller Project Manager said “this is an exciting project that will help and enable the children at Houndsfield Lane to achieve educational outcomes and is the first step in Rooftop delivering more than just housing to our Gypsy and Traveller customers”.
To see more go to: http://www.rooftopgroup.org/about/news/general-news/children-rewarded-for-study/"
Rooftop Housing Group and the Worcestershire Traveller Education Service (TES) have rewarded star pupils with laptops to help them study. Children from the Gypsy and Traveller community are amongst the lowest achieving groups in schools in England, with typically low attendance. The TES and Rooftop Housing Group have been working together to turn this trend around and to give children from the Houndsfield Lane community something to work towards. The project motivates children that fall below an 85% attendance rate to stay in school, and get the best opportunities that education can bring them. 5 Children who now have over 90% attendance were awarded laptops by Rooftop Housing Group’s Chief Executive Ian Hughes at a special ceremony held at Wythall Library. Tony Henderson Rooftops’ Gypsy and Traveller Project Manager said “this is an exciting project that will help and enable the children at Houndsfield Lane to achieve educational outcomes and is the first step in Rooftop delivering more than just housing to our Gypsy and Traveller customers”.
To see more go to: http://www.rooftopgroup.org/about/news/general-news/children-rewarded-for-study/"
Operation Travellers Rest - 1-10-15
As you will no doubt be aware new guidance from the government redefines who Gypsies and Travellers are for the purposes of planning. Under the new guidance if a Gypsy or Traveller stops travelling permanently, even for education or health reasons or reasons of old age, they will no longer be within the definition of Gypsy and Traveller. Many people have been asking what they can do about this.
There will be more than one way to raise awareness of and show opposition to these unfair and discriminatory changes. For one, extremely effective, approach please read this article by Ryalla Duffy of Lincolnshire Gypsy Liaison Group here. For more information please contact us at natglg@outlook.com
As you will no doubt be aware new guidance from the government redefines who Gypsies and Travellers are for the purposes of planning. Under the new guidance if a Gypsy or Traveller stops travelling permanently, even for education or health reasons or reasons of old age, they will no longer be within the definition of Gypsy and Traveller. Many people have been asking what they can do about this.
There will be more than one way to raise awareness of and show opposition to these unfair and discriminatory changes. For one, extremely effective, approach please read this article by Ryalla Duffy of Lincolnshire Gypsy Liaison Group here. For more information please contact us at natglg@outlook.com
SITES FOR LIFE CAMPAIGN - 28-09-15
This is an appeal to build up a legal fund to challenge the Government’s recent change to the planning definition of Gypsies and Travellers in planning policy which will make it impossible for those who have stopped travelling permanently on grounds of old age or ill health from seeking planning permission for a Gypsy or Traveller site.
Please give what you can spare to help us fight this cruel and inhumane policy change.
Full information here
This is an appeal to build up a legal fund to challenge the Government’s recent change to the planning definition of Gypsies and Travellers in planning policy which will make it impossible for those who have stopped travelling permanently on grounds of old age or ill health from seeking planning permission for a Gypsy or Traveller site.
Please give what you can spare to help us fight this cruel and inhumane policy change.
Full information here
Open Society Foundation-funded engagement events are a success
Thanks to funding from the Open Society Initiative for Europe we were able to hold (in partnership with local GRT groups) three “engagement events” in York (VIEW HERE), Birmingham (VIEW HERE) and London (VIEW HERE). The aim of the events was to translate the recommendations contained in the “Gypsy, Traveller, Roma: Experts by Experience” report into action through bringing together members of the Gypsy, Traveller and Roma communities, local authority members and officers and other agencies to look at the report’s key findings and discuss ways forward. As a direct result of the Birmingham event we are now working closely with Birmingham City Council and Clinical Commissioning Groups in the city, focusing initially on the health recommendations of the report.
Thanks to funding from the Open Society Initiative for Europe we were able to hold (in partnership with local GRT groups) three “engagement events” in York (VIEW HERE), Birmingham (VIEW HERE) and London (VIEW HERE). The aim of the events was to translate the recommendations contained in the “Gypsy, Traveller, Roma: Experts by Experience” report into action through bringing together members of the Gypsy, Traveller and Roma communities, local authority members and officers and other agencies to look at the report’s key findings and discuss ways forward. As a direct result of the Birmingham event we are now working closely with Birmingham City Council and Clinical Commissioning Groups in the city, focusing initially on the health recommendations of the report.
Meeting at York Travellers Aid Trust
Our ultimate aim is to see political parties and other relevant bodies adopting the report’s recommendations, with this being reflected in their policies at both national and local levels. Obviously this is an ambitious target and will not be reached overnight – indeed we see the engagement events as linking into a whole series of longer-term strategies aimed at achieving implementation of the recommendations.
Watch this page for future events and updates.
Our ultimate aim is to see political parties and other relevant bodies adopting the report’s recommendations, with this being reflected in their policies at both national and local levels. Obviously this is an ambitious target and will not be reached overnight – indeed we see the engagement events as linking into a whole series of longer-term strategies aimed at achieving implementation of the recommendations.
Watch this page for future events and updates.
