Current issues
Lack of Sites
Following the completion of the Nottinghamshire Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Needs Assessment in 2007, a number of extra pitches for each District were identified, with an overall need for 165 extra pitches in the County. These figures were upheld in the Regional Spatial Strategy published in March 2009 and now each District will be incorporating the need into their Local Development Framework and Core Strategy and planning for new sites.
Health
- Recent research has shown that members of the Travelling Community have significantly poorer health and have a lower life expectancy than other UK residents, with Gypsy men on average living 10 years less than the settled community.
- Gypsies and Travellers are also more likely to suffer from miscarriages and higher rates of infant mortality.
- Health beliefs and attitudes to health services demonstrate a cultural pride in self reliance, but there is also a tolerance of chronic ill health and fear of terminal illnesses. This can lead to the avoidance of screening and only going to the Doctors or for emergency treatment often at too late a stage.
- Poor access to healthcare and a higher incidence of mental health distress amongst the Travelling community are linked to the fact that there are not enough suitable places for them to camp and live.
- Poor literacy skills and the bureaucracy associated in accessing health services is also a major factor of Gypsies not receiving much needed services and treatment.