Breaking Through Myths About Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Communities – Why Understanding Difference Matters

Jake Bowers is a Romani journalist, producer, media teacher, film maker and blacksmith who joins us on Governance Matters for an insightful discussion on the critical role of governance, particularly for ethnic minorities such as the Gypsy and Traveller communities. Listen in as Jake's unique perspective as he explains the significance of executing governance with morality and equality in mind, and the potential pitfalls when it falters. He also guides us through the appropriate terminology when referring to his community and challenges the misconceptions perpetuated by sensationalised media portrayals. Jake emphasises the importance of aligning perceptions with the reality that these communities are recognised ethnic groups with protected racial identities.

In another chapter of our conversation, we explore the barriers Gypsy and Traveller communities face in accessing essential services like healthcare and education, often exacerbated by their nomadic lifestyle and lack of secure housing. Jake shares insights into the discrimination these communities encounter and the reluctance of institutions to include them, while also highlighting efforts by organisations like the NHS in Surrey to bridge these gaps. He shares his personal experience as a blacksmith creating sculptures to celebrate Gypsy and Traveller culture, highlighting a project in Appleby that, despite facing resistance, holds the potential to foster inclusion and fulfill race equality duties. This episode underscores the need for proactive governance and community engagement to address these challenges.

A Gypsy life for me https://www.travellerstimes.org.uk/news/2011/11/gypsy-life-me

Online FAQs Pack Gypsies and Travellers produced by Travellers Times and written by Jake Bowers:

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Governance Matters

Join us on Governance Matters with South East Employer’s Governance, Development and Consultancy Manager, Kirsty Hunt, as we delve into the critical importance of good governance. Our guests will provide expert insights, offering practical advice and solutions from their wealth of experience. Our discussions will highlight the multifaceted nature of governance, from attitudes to processes, to help you influence, enhance and evolve your governance practices. Tune in if governance matters to you!

Find all our episodes here: https://www.seemp.co.uk/governance-matters/

• No. of episodes: 12
• Latest episode: 2025-06-26
• Government

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