Health

Traveller health Development

The original Community Health Project was developed in 2001 in recognition of the severe health inequalities experienced by the Traveller community. Following a positive evaluation of this three year pilot phase, the project became mainstreamed through funding by the DHSS&PS.

A new wider health strategy was agreed which aims to support the health development of all Travellers in the Greater Belfast area, regardless of age and gender.

The new key aims of the Health Development Strategy are:

1. To increase the skills, knowledge and confidence of Travellers around health and well being

2. To develop specific programmes and activities in response to the identified health needs of Travellers

3. To increase the capacity of Travellers to act as resources and advocates for health and well being within their own community and with wider health providers

4. To work in partnership with relevant statutory, voluntary and community groups to highlight Traveller's health needs and work together to address these needs

5. To promote best models of practice in working with Travellers to increase Travellers participation in health development