Hidden losses and ‘forgotten’ suffering: the bereavement experiences of British Romany Gypsies and Travellers

Abstract

There are an estimated 300,000 Romany Gypsies and Travellers resident in Britain. Policy enactments and a decline in stopping places have impacted these ethnic minorities’ cultural tradition of nomadism, leading to significant socioeconomic challenges and rapid cultural change in recent decades. Additionally, Gypsies and Travellers face significant health inequalities, including a reduced life expectancy of between 10–12 years compared to ‘mainstream’ populations. Further, considerably higher levels of suicide, maternal and infant mortality, miscarriage and stillbirth are reported. Membership of close-knit and large extended families means that bereavement experiences are common from an early age. Unresolved grief from multiple bereavements can have long-term health implications, including depression, anxiety, and increases in risk-taking behaviours such as alcohol and substance misuse. This paper presents a narrative review of the literature illustrated by quotes from a from a recently completed study that examines the bereavement support needs of Gypsies and Travellers and best practice for organisations seeking to support these ‘hard to reach’ populations.