Gypsy, Roma and Travellers

In St Helens there are a number of authorised Gypsy, Roma and Traveller sites across the borough, both council owned and privately owned.

We have a responsibility to meet the housing needs of the whole community. To ensure that we meet the housing needs of local Gypsy, Roma and Traveller families, we manage a permanent site which has been provided for families who wish to stay in the area.

The permanent site contains provision for 20 families. There is an allocations policy, which sets out the rules for how available pitches will be let. Gypsies, Roma and Travellers wishing to come onto the site must complete an application form. The Gypsy and Traveller Liaison Officer manages the site.

We have taken part in the Merseyside and West Lancashire Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment to fully understand the needs of the community.

The role of the Gypsy Traveller Liaison Officer

• Manage the permanent council Gypsy and Traveller site including the allocation of pitches;
• Promote good community relations between different racial groups;
• Work with other agencies to improve access to services for Gypsies and Travellers. This includes working alongside education to ensure the educational needs are met;
• Respond to complaints about encampments and to work with other agencies to deal with unauthorised encampments;
• Provide information on all Gypsy and Traveller matters.

Contact details

Tony Glennon - Gypsy Traveller Liaison Officer

Telephone: 01744 671683