Gypsy and Traveller communities

This section looks at the law relating to Gypsy and Traveller communities. The term Gypsy and Traveller communities is used in this section to include all people who follow, or attempt to follow, a travelling or nomadic lifestyle.

Overview

This page provides further information about the Scottish population of Gypsy and Traveller communities. 

Definition of Gypsy and Traveller communities

This section looks at what is meant by 'Gypsy and Traveller communities'.

Advising Gypsy and Traveller communities

There are specific issues that advisers must consider when advising a member of the Gypsy and Traveller community. 

Unauthorised sites

There are particular legislative provisions that apply to the prosecution of Gypsy and Traveller communities who park on unauthorised sites. 

Eviction proceedings

Land owners, including local authorities, can raise a heritable property action for eviction against anybody who parks a caravan on land without consent. 

Planning permission and site licences

It is important to consider issues of planning permission when advising Gypsy and Traveller communities. 

Mobile homes sites

This page details the different types of site that a member of Gypsy and Traveller communities may use. 

Human Rights Act 1998

Members of Gypsy and Traveller communities may be able to use different articles of the European Convention on Human Rights to defend criminal cases, to argue civil cases, and to challenge aspects of the present legislation. 

Children (Scotland) Act 1995

The Children (Scotland) Act 1995 should be considered when advising members of Gypsy and Traveller communities who have children. 

Homelessness

The homelessness legislation may be applicable to members of Gypsy and Traveller communities. 

Permanent housing

Some members of Gypsy and Traveller communities choose to apply for permanent housing. Others may be forced to do so if there is no site available, if their vehicle is in serious disrepair or there is a member of the family who is sick. 

The Equality Act 2010

Some aspects of the Equality Act 2010 may apply to members of Gypsy and Traveller communities.