Report : Self-directed Support and Gypsy/Travellers research
The Self-directed Support (SDS) and Gypsy/Travellers research report presents the findings of a one-year research project, funded by the Scottish Government, exploring the potential of SDS to meet the care and support needs of Gypsy/Travellers in Scotland.
The research sought, using community based approaches, to explore what appetite exists for SDS, highlight potential barriers to accessing SDS and identify support mechanisms required to enable uptake of SDS within the Gypsy/Traveller community.
While there was unanimous support for the principles of SDS, the research identified a number of barriers which prevented community members from accessing SDS, including:
- Lack of cultural competency among service providers
- Lack of accessible information
- Lack of trust in councils
- Lack of positive stories
- Lack of flexibility with assessments.
SDS presents an opportunity for Gypsy/Travellers to access support that is culturally, and personally, appropriate for them. However, that there is greater choice and control over how social care is delivered does not remove the barriers that continue to prevent Gypsy/Travellers from accessing services.
The research suggests for Gypsy/Travellers to feel confident in accessing SDS, attitudes among service providers need to change, and there needs to be meaningful outreach and engagement with Gypsy/Travellers from local councils.
