Gypsy/Travellers action plan: 2023

Tackling racism and discrimination

Strengthening response to discrimination

Bringing together senior leaders from across the public sector to strengthen the way services respond to discrimination towards Gypsy/Travellers including through the provision of training and supporting local authorities and the wider public sector to listen to Gypsy/Travellers in their areas in a meaningful and supportive way and engage them through local policy, planning and budgetary processes. 

June – September 2023 focus

This work continues to be delivered on an ad hoc basis ensuring key groups that have a relevant interest or a connection to Gypsy/Travellers represent the voices of the community and the sector. A conference is planned this year which will allow public sector staff to attend and learn about the culture and needs of the community. We hope to hold a series of these discussions throughout the year. Discussions will also focus on how meaningful engagement can support the community be more involved in decision making such as participatory budgeting.

Local leaders network

Creating a “Local Leaders” network of politicians from across Scotland to champion Gypsy/Traveller’s rights and help to deliver the action plan in local communities and supporting local actions. 

June – September 2023 focus

COSLA are planning to reconvene the local leaders’ network shortly. This will support local councillors in understanding the needs and culture of the community. 

One Scotland campaign

Working with Gypsy/Traveller communities to design a “One Scotland” marketing campaign, raising awareness of Gypsy/Travellers’ positive role in Scotland’s communities, and promoting strong messages to counter discrimination, hate speech and hate crime. 

June – September 2023 focus

Work is underway to identify options of how best we utilise this resource in line with the wishes of the community. A working group is exploring what activity we can support to tackle discrimination and racism. 

Gypsy/Roma/Traveller History Month

Supporting Gypsy/Roma/Traveller History Month (June) with financial and practical help, as a valued contribution to Scotland’s cultural calendar. 

June – September 2023 focus

The Scottish Government continues to support key events within the Gypsy/Traveller calendar, in collaboration with our partners.

Improving Gypsy/Traveller representation

Representation on advisory and decision-making groups

Helping to secure representation on key advisory groups and decision-making bodies on issues that are important to them (on a national and local level). 

June – September 2023 focus

This work continues to be delivered on an ad hoc basis ensuring key groups that have a relevant interest or connection to Gypsy/Travellers represent the voices of the community and the sector.

Shaping national and local policy

Providing practical and financial support to enable Gypsy/Traveller communities to shape national policy agendas and local priorities and to assess the progress we are making (£100,000 in 2021-22)  

June – September 2023 focus

Work is underway to identify options of how best we utilise this resource in line with the wishes of the community. A working group is exploring what activity we can support to tackle discrimination and racism.