There is no other group in our population that is so marginalized and disadvantaged as Travellers. Their culture and lifestyle is often at variance with that of the settled population amongst whom they live. This can sometimes create tension and misunderstanding. There is no doubt however that, whilst the health of the population as a whole continues to improve, the health of Travellers remains a major concern.

This valuable report highlights the difficulties in making accurate assessments of the health of the travelling population and the comparative poverty of research on the health experience of this extremely important minority group. Part of our task in helping Travellers to live full and healthy lives must be to improve substantially the information that is available. This will enable us not only to develop a clearer picture of the health experience of Travellers but also to work with them to produce solutions to the many threats to their health and well-being.

Health inequalities, quite rightly, are at the very top of the health agenda and there can surely be few other groups whose needs require such urgent attention. 

Dr Gabriel Scally
Regional Director of Public Health