Primary Healthcare Project

August was a quiet month for the Traveller Primary Health Care project. Many of the community outreach workers were on annual leave. However, it allowed for reflection and planning for Autumn/Winter 25/26. A number of themes emerged when we reflected on the year past, using the data collected from our July survey, clear priorities for 2026 emerged. The information made a strong case for directing staff and resources toward mental health, early years supports, and engagement strategies that can overcome current barriers. At the same time, investment in staff development and wellbeing must be factored into overall planning to sustain momentum and improve outcomes across PHC services.

Kathleen and Nicky joined Peter O ‘Reilly (HSE) to deliver an informal introduction into the Travelling culture, within the context of mental health to a group of non-consultant hospital Doctors. The session explored the lived experiences of Travellers within the Irish health system, their experiences of exclusion and the barriers experienced by Travellers accessing health care. This included the impact of poor health literacy, literacy and access to culturally informed practitioners. Sessions like this provide two-way dialogue whereby service providers and Traveller Primary Health care projects can work together to support each other in reducing the health disparities that exist for Travellers. This opportunity to develop a relationship between the WTPHP and non-consultant Doctors occurred because of our long-standing relationship with Peter. This relationship is significant because it opens door and increases opportunities, the importance of multi discipline and interagency partnerships cannot be underestimated in terms of improving the health outcomes for Travellers and the delivery of services to this ethnic minority group

We also received an online request through our website to deliver training on Traveller culture to an interested member of the public. This was delivered by Zoom on the 2nd of September. Jim O’ Brien, WTG, recently redeveloped the WTG website. He added an online option whereby members of the public and other users of the site can request training.  

Two members of the PHC team participated in the Shine Green Ribbon campaign launch over Zoom on the 26th of August. The Green Ribbon Campaign is Shine’s flagship initiative to reduce stigma around mental illness in Ireland. It aims to build a nationwide social movement that promotes open conversations, compassion, and collective responsibility for mental health.

Although Shine is active year-round, September is the key month for awareness-raising events concerning mental health. Wearing the green ribbon symbolizes solidarity and encourages dialogue, helping to break down barriers and foster a more supportive society. Traveller Primary Health care workers attendance at events like this reinforces our commitment to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and highlighting the supports available to support those in need.

We were very excited to see that Wicklow Traveller Group got a great write up in the Traveller’s Voice Magazine in the July/August edition. If you have a copy of the magazine, check it out on page 24, ‘Born to Shine, Traveller Threads’. It was lovely to see the young people’s efforts recognised.  On page 12 of the same edition our colleagues in Bray Traveller Development group were also mentioned. We were also delighted to be part of the ‘I am Change’ event. This event was part of the Wicklow Traveller Mental health steering groups lunchtime discussions. This group is made up of the Wicklow PHC team. WTG, BTDG, HSE Traveller Mental health, the DEISH project and Traveller counselling service.

This partnership approach means that together we are empowering the Traveller community in the county of Wicklow together, united as Travellers and settled people to be the change.

Events like these that aim to create meaningful change are often the result of many hands working behind the scenes—planning, funding, and delivering with shared purpose. Acknowledging the full picture of that work strengthens relationships and reflects the true spirit of partnership as highlighted by Nelly and Jim in their interviews, whereby they acknowledged everyone’s contributions – including the boy’s group, the girls’ groups, the workers and the facilitators.

Community Development Project

August has been a quieter month for the Wicklow Travellers Group, but it has still been full of meaningful work, learning, and growth for our community. While the summer excitement winds down, we have focused on cultural awareness, education, and building new spaces for our members to connect.

Traveller Cultural Awareness Training

This month, we were delighted to deliver Traveller Cultural Awareness Training to teachers at Wicklow Educate Together Secondary School, led by Sinead and Jim. The training aimed to help educators understand Traveller culture, history, and the challenges faced by Traveller communities.

Through interactive sessions, discussions, and real-life examples, teachers gained insight into:

  • The rich cultural heritage of the Traveller community.
  • The importance of inclusive practices in schools.
  • Strategies for supporting Traveller students academically, socially, and emotionally.

The feedback from teachers was extremely positive, with many noting that the training gave them practical tools to make their classrooms more welcoming and supportive. Initiatives like this are crucial for breaking down stereotypes, promoting equality, and fostering understanding between Traveller and settled communities.

New Location for Girls Group in Arklow

Another highlight of August was our visit to a new location for the Girls Group in Arklow. This new space promises to provide a safe, welcoming, and inspiring environment where girls can come together, share experiences, and participate in creative and educational activities.

The girls’ group is an essential part of our work, offering opportunities for social connection, personal development, and confidence-building. By expanding into Arklow, we are making our programs more accessible to young members in the area and ensuring that more girls can benefit from the support, mentorship, and friendship that the group provides.

Looking Ahead

Though August has been quieter than July, it has been a month of reflection, preparation, and laying the groundwork for future initiatives. From cultural awareness training to expanding our girls’ group, our focus remains on education, inclusion, and community development.

As we move into September, the Wicklow Travellers Group will continue to build on these foundations, planning activities, workshops, and projects that empower our members, celebrate our culture, and strengthen the bonds within our community.