Gypsies, Roma, and Travellers (GRT) are diverse communities, with unique cultural, linguistic, and traditional characteristics. A shared history of nomadism is central to GRT communities and cultural identities, alongside the importance of community or family networks, and a predominance of self-employment. However, GRT communities experience the poorest health outcomes in the UK.  

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The mental health needs of GRT women during the perinatal period (from pregnancy to one year after birth) are often overlooked, despite evidence showing higher risks to both maternal and newborn health. Data from the early 2000s showed that GRT women have the highest maternal death rate in the UK, an infant mortality rate 3 times higher than the white non-ethnic minority population, and are 20 times more likely to lose a baby. More recent data is not available. However, mental, maternal, and neonatal healthcare are among the Race Health Observatory’s top priorities and GRT women are highlighted as a group of particular concern.

 

Ethnic minority women, including GRT’s, are more likely to experience undiagnosed, untreated mental health issues during the perinatal period and face a range of systemic and interpersonal barriers to accessing specialist care. These include fears of child removal, persistent community-level stigma around mental health, limited cultural awareness from staff of how communities might experience and express mental distress, and racism.   

  

Addressing the perinatal mental health care needs of GRT communities is critical for improving outcomes for both mothers and infants. This work requires tailored interventions and support systems sensitive to their cultural and social contexts. This project will look at how GRT women describe their mental health and how services are aligned with their views, through three studies: a systematic review, participatory research using Photovoice, and a focus group with professionals.