Gypsy/Travellers - accommodation needs: evidence review

2. The evidence base

The literature on the accommodation needs of Gypsy/Travellers is largely made up of quantitative research, focusing on demographics and the quantification of sites and encampments. Some studies adopt a mixed methods approach to assessing need, using qualitative methods to gain insight into the accommodation preferences and aspirations of Gypsy/Travellers. The body of literature using a solely qualitative approach, particularly in Scotland, is relatively small. This report focuses on academic and grey literature on the accommodation needs of Gypsy/Travellers in Scotland published over the last 20 years, taking its starting point from the Equal Opportunities Committee (EOC) report Gypsy Travellers and Public Sector Policies^[3]. References are also made to studies from across the UK, where the findings are likely to be relevant or can supplement the Scottish studies. Two case studies have also been selected, which illustrate specific approaches to Gypsy/Traveller accommodation.

2.1 Terminology

The term 'Gypsy/Traveller' is used throughout this report to refer to the distinct groups who consider travelling as part of their cultural or ethnic identity. This includes groups such as Roma, Romany Gypsies, and Irish and Scottish Travellers. This definition recognises that Gypsy/Travellers are not a homogenous group and that, although there are cultural similarities, such as a history of nomadism, these groups are considered to be distinct. These groups do not include occupational (e.g. Travelling Showpeople) or New Age Travellers, who are not recognised as ethnic groups. However, it is recognised that there may be some cross-over in the accommodation needs of these various groups.

The terms 'bricks-and-mortar' housing and 'settled housing' are used interchangeably throughout the literature to refer to conventional housing. As far as possible, where these terms are used, this report will use the term used in the original literature.

2.2 Type of research

Quantitative studies estimate the size of the Gypsy/Traveller population and accommodation needs in a number of ways, with researchers using a mixture of available data sources such as the 2011 Census and data returns provided by local authorities or registered social landlords (RSLs) to provide an estimate across Scotland. Some studies have also carried out bespoke large-scale household surveys, which are then cross-checked with secondary data (Craigforth 2007; Home & Greenfields 2006).

In the literature reviewed for this report, most studies focused on Gypsy/Traveller households living on sites provided by local authorities/RSLs, privately owned sites and unauthorised encampments. One study specifically focused on the needs of housed Gypsy/Travellers living in England. Some studies also conducted research with landlords and stakeholders. Study samples included specific geographical communities in Scotland and England, and members of particular groups such as Gypsy/Travellers with caring responsibilities, young people, older Gypsy/Travellers and households with members with a disability or long-term health condition.

A variety of techniques were used to recruit participants. The use of intermediaries, such as housing services, site managers, health visitors or an organisation already known to the community, was common (PAS 2019; Craigforth 2007; Parry et al. 2004). Snowball sampling was also used to gain access to family networks (Craigforth 2007; Home & Greenfields 2006).

One study in England was notable for its use of trained, paid community interviewers (recruited from each main nomadic group in the locality) who were involved in all aspects of the project design and data collection. The interviewers were personally recommended through pre-existing community contacts and organisations working with the community (Home & Greenfields 2006).

2.3 Limitations and assumptions

Some studies have methodological limitations, such as the time of year when the survey or interviews were conducted. Given the seasonality of travelling, the size of the population and its needs are likely to change over the course of the year. A few of the studies are relatively old and, as many of the policy developments have taken place in the last 10 years, the policy and social context is now likely to be different. Therefore, some findings may no longer apply. In particular, quantitative data on the Gypsy/Traveller population in Scotland is dated and is limited in terms of quantity. For example, the 2011 Census remains the most comprehensive data set available. As previously noted, some studies have been included that are not based on research undertaken in Scotland, and although the findings are likely to be relevant it is possible that they do not apply in the Scottish context. Similar caveats are attached to the selected case studies.