Nomadism a moving myth? Policies of exclusion and the gypsy/traveller response

Abstract

This paper examines the way in which national government policy, aimed at curbing mobility and trespass, by gypsies/travellers has, historically and to date, when interpreted and translated into local policy and practice, exacerbated the problem whereby some families are excluded from employment, education, health and social welfare. Such policies are often based on a knowledge archive from which definitions are derived which may or not be accurate. Implemented policies can lead to a set of coping strategies which can make, shape and separate the Gypsy/Traveller habitus from the mainstream, ensuring that it remains parallel. The caravan is currently the more obvious cultural symbol which quickly singles out families for 'special' treatment - namely discrimination, exclusion and enforced mobility.