Gypsy/Travelling People and Unauthorised Encampments
Gypsy/Travellers refer to distinct groups such as, Scottish Travellers, Nawken, Irish Travellers and Romany Gypsies - who consider the travelling lifestyle an intrinsic part of their cultural identity
Improving the lives of Gypsy/Traveller communities is a key human rights commitment for the Scottish Government and COSLA. It is essential that public bodies tackle deep-rooted inequalities to help build a fairer, more inclusive Scotland. Gypsy/Travellers often face:
- Erosion of their traditional lifestyle.
- Poorer outcomes in living standards, education, health, and employment.
- Persistent stereotyping and hostility.
Gypsy/Traveller communities have the right to:
- Safe and culturally appropriate places to live and travel.
- Understand their rights and access services positively.
- Support to maximise income, employment opportunities, and living standards.
- Be safe, respected, and valued members of Scotland's diverse population.
- Be heard and included in decisions affecting their lives.
West Lothian
There is no designated permanent or temporary site in West Lothian for Gypsy/Travellers. All encampments are unauthorised and self-selected by the community while passing through the area.
Role of the Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) - Unauthorised Encampment
Upon receiving intelligence or reports of an unauthorised encampment, SNT Officers will visit the site to:
- Engage respectfully with Gypsy/Travellers and offer support services/referrals
- Identify the encampment's location (Council vs. private land)
- Ascertain intended length of stay
- Engage with other Community Safety Partners as necessary
- Determine if the encampment is on WLC land where they will contact Legal Services to prepare a Notice to Quit (NTQ)
- Determine if the encampment is on private land where they will liaise with the landowner for them to take any action
- Hand-deliver NTQ.
- Contact necessary partners re compliance of NTQ /eviction process
- Arrange clear-up process and evaluate impact
