Brent Council has approved a new Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Framework and Action Plan for 2026-2030, aiming to address significant disparities and improve relationships with these communities.
The plan, endorsed by the Cabinet on Monday, September 7, 2026, prioritises providing safe and suitable sites, building stronger and more sustainable relationships, and delivering accessible services. The framework is eligible for call-in until 6pm on Monday, September 14, 2026.
The framework aims to tackle disproportionate outcomes experienced by Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities, as highlighted by data from the Census 2021 and Brent Council. These disparities include a lower median age for the White Gypsy and Irish Traveller population (27 compared to Brent's average of 35), and a significantly higher likelihood of requiring Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and Special Educational Needs (SEN) support. Poorer grade attainment is observed in Early Years, Phonics Trend, and Key Stage 2, though Key Stage 4 outcomes are better. Health data reveals higher rates of multiple long-term conditions, anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities among residents at Lynton Close, Brent's permanent traveller site, with wider communities experiencing fewer GP visits but higher hospital admissions. Economic activity shows a high employment rate for the White Roma population (77%), but the lowest for the Gypsy and Irish Traveller population (40%), with Roma individuals being twice as likely to be self-employed. Qualification rates are also a concern, with the White Gypsy and Irish Traveller population having the lowest rate of qualifications (61% with none), and Lynton Close ranking among the most deprived neighbourhoods in England.
Several Cabinet members spoke in support of the framework, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding trust, ensuring services are accessible and culturally appropriate, and celebrating the rich history and identity of Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities. Councillor Amadi highlighted the framework's alignment with the Council's vision of a community-focused borough where every community is respected and included.
To build stronger and more sustainable relationships, the Council plans to continue improving engagement with Gypsy and Traveller communities. Dedicated site support officers will act as community advocates, liaising with relevant services and addressing resident needs. A Lynton Close Engagement Plan will ensure consistent communication and alignment with the framework's commitments, with core principles of listening, feedback loops, and community empowerment. A Roma community engagement plan will focus on understanding the diversity of the Roma community in Brent, identifying needs, and establishing maintained dialogue with leaders and trusted voices. The Council will also continue to collaborate with experienced organisations such as Three Dragons, the Traveller Movement, London Gypsies and Travellers, Roma Support Group, and the Romanian and Eastern European Hub (RO-EE Hub).
The success of the 'accessible services' objective will be measured through the establishment of an accessible model of support hub for Gypsies and Travellers. This hub will offer in-person support with a variety of services, including debt advice, mental health support, NHS access, employment and skills training, education support (covering school readiness, after-school clubs, SEND support, and adult learning), and youth support. These services will be developed in collaboration with the communities and relevant partners, with a focus on physical spaces close to or on-site at locations like Lynton Close.
Furthermore, a Gypsy, Roma and Traveller cultural competency training offer will be embedded for all teams engaging with these communities. This training, designed and delivered by experts, aims to ensure staff and partners understand the culture, history, and background of these communities to provide appropriate support. Specific examples of culturally competent services envisioned include debt advice and arrears support, mental health and wellbeing services, support to access NHS services, employment and skills training, comprehensive education support, and youth support.
The framework outlines several design principles for 'safe and suitable sites'. These include appropriate vehicle access and parking, easy access to essential services like schools and healthcare, site sizes in line with best practice, child-friendly spaces, accessible community spaces, and provision of key utilities such as water, electricity, drainage, and waste disposal.
Mechanisms for ongoing community consultation and feedback include exploring opportunities for Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller residents to help oversee delivery, review progress, and share their views. The plan commits to an annual report on progress to Cabinet. The 'Lynton Close Engagement Plan' and the 'Roma community engagement plan' are also designed to ensure sustained dialogue and feedback loops.
Regarding financial implications, the meeting information states there are no direct financial implications arising from this report for the framework itself. However, in September 2025, Cabinet endorsed the use of up to approximately £500,000 in capital investment from 2026/27 for Lynton Close site improvements, subject to usual capital governance processes.
For more details, refer to the Decisions Monday 07-Sep-2026 10.00 Cabinet document.
