Carers from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) communities

People in the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Communities often experience worse health than the general population, including a higher incidence of long-term health conditions, and shortened life expectancy. Unfortunately, carers can face additional challenges.

• Lack of access - including difficulties around frequently moving, which can make it hard to register with a GP.
• Lack of understanding of the health and social care system.
• Lack of trust and a belief that the system may discriminate and not understand people's needs.
• There can be language barriers and difficulties because of poor reading abilities.
• Being viewed as a 'hard to reach' group and seen as a community that doesn't always welcome help isn't helpful to carers' situations.
  
  

As a carer

• You may find it hard to consider yourself a 'carer' - the role is less recognised in the GRT community, less valued, and people may not understand the pressures you are under.
• Culturally it can be hard to look outside for help, especially if the person you're caring for has mental health or addiction issues. There's pride in self-reliance and keeping things within the community which can make it extra hard for carers.
• You may have money worries because of additional costs on already difficult finances.
• You may feel you need to fight for help or equipment.
• There's the practical, daily difficulties of managing caring in a small space.
• If the person you're caring for is very unwell, you may have to consider major changes, including giving up your traditional way of life.

How to help yourself

• Realise that you are a carer. Your caring role might affect you emotionally, practically or financially. You need to look after yourself too.
• Let others in your family/community know you are a carer and that it affects you.
• Make sure everyone involved in the care of the person you're looking after also knows you are their carer, and you need to be kept informed, updated, and involved in their care.
• As a carer, you have rights too, including to having your needs assessed. It's important that your GP, if you have one, knows you're a carer.

Register as a carer here.

Useful links