The main aims of the current Gypsy Traveller Strategy 2013-18 are to develop a more co-ordinated approach to the provision of services and accommodation for gypsy/travellers in Perth and Kinross and deliver joined-up services to meet the needs of the gypsy/traveller community.

The strategy also aims to ensure the council is meeting its legislative requirements on equalities and builds on existing consultation with the local gypsy/traveller community.

Progress on these aims have been monitored by the council’s Gypsy/Traveller Working Group on an ongoing basis. The positive actions achieved by the Strategy include the involvement of members of the gypsy/travelling communities in providing ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ training to young people.

The ‘Out of Site’ training delivered by the community in Perth & Kinross Council schools specifically focuses on racism towards gypsies and travellers. Members of the gypsy and travelling communities are also involved in planning and hosting of an annual ‘Wellbeing Mela’ to which members of any community are welcome to attend.

These achievements will be shared with Community Planning Partners following approval by the council’s housing and communities committee.

Councillor Peter Barrett, convener of the housing and communities committee, said: “The Gypsy Traveller Strategy 2013-18 has met its intended aims and the majority of actions have either been achieved or are continuing to be progressed.

“A consultation is planned which will allow us to explore future areas of work in greater detail with a view to including these aims in a revised Strategy. I anticipate the updated Strategy to be reported to the Housing and Health Committee in August 2018.”