Gypsies speak out
01 May 2008
On 7 February in London, Shelter ran a groundbreaking national conference on supporting Gypsies and Travellers in settled housing.
Gypsies and Travellers now living in 'bricks and mortar' housing make up an estimated half to two thirds of the total Gypsy and Traveller population, yet their needs and concerns are rarely documented.
The conference was a unique opportunity for delegates to explore ways to recognise and support housing needs of Gypsies and Travellers from many different communities.
The day was chaired by Richard R O'Neill, who was born into a large Gypsy Travelling family, and now works as a trainer, consultant and storyteller. Keynote speakers were Ian Wright, MP for Hartlepool, Pauline Hughes and Shelter's Chief Exec Adam Sampson.
The event was the first of its kind and was organised jointly by Shelter's Good Practice Unit and Shelter Training, and also marked the launch of Shelter's unique good practice guide on supporting housed Gypsies and Travellers.
Find out more about Shelter conferences and training.
