Gypsies and Travellers - General Information

A distinct racial, ethic and cultural group with its own language

Recognised as a distinct race in law, most, although not all, Gypsies live a travelling lifestyle. As a race they were persecuted by the Nazis and sent in huge numbers to concentration camps during the Second World War. Gypsies first came to England in the 16th Century and large numbers of Romany Gypsies have lived in Worcestershire for many generations as may be witnessed in local churchyards.

Anyone regardless of race (therefore including New Travellers) who lives a nomadic lifestyle for economic purposes

This latter definition first came to prominence as a result of the 1968 Caravan Sites Act, which, although repealed in 1994, the definition was retained living on within the 1960 Control and Development Act. New guidance will shortly be announced by the Government to address not only the definition anomalies but also on issues regarding all accommodation issues.

The term Travellers is usually taken to include both groups highlighted above. However, it should be noted that some ethnic Gypsies travel very little nowadays. Just because they do not travel does not mean they cease to be a Gypsy.

• Countryside Service
• Gypsies & Travellers
• Residential Sites
• Service Provision
• Unauthorised Encampments