Statement from the Gyspy, Roma, Traveller Social Work Association

A statement from the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Social Work Association (GRTSWA):

‘It has come to our attention that a video is being shared on social media which misrepresents a Social Work event attended by the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Social work Association. The event was the British Association of Social Workers annual conference at which we presented.

The stand referenced in the video was set up by the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Social Work Association to celebrate Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History month and to educate social workers about our history and cultures. This video was made covertly and at any time, the person making the concealed video, could have spoken to us.

We want to reassure Gypsy, Roma and Traveller families, communities and anyone who has seen this video that one of our primary aims is to educate social workers, challenge concerning practice and improve understanding of our cultures.

Our intention is for this to lead to better outcomes for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller families who come into contact with social services, as we have in our own families.

The Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Social Work Association is made up of Gypsy, Traveller and Roma social workers and proven allies. To have our intentions misinterpreted in this way is extremely dangerous and hurtful.

We are concerned for the hurt and fear this video will cause our communities and wanted to offer our reassurance that the association strongly opposes the insensitive and misinformed information in the video, which we have reported’.

GRTSWA

The Travellers' Times has spoken to some well-respected veteran Gypsy and Traveller campaigners and verified that the above statement is true.

We would also like to thank and add our support to the GRTSWA. Sometimes change comes from within, and the GRTSWA do solid campaign work to make that happen within social work and social services.

TT Editor