Wicklow Traveller Primary Healthcare Project.
We began 2025 with a strong focus on cultural awareness, anti-racism training, and building meaningful partnerships to improve the health experiences and outcomes for Travellers in Wicklow.
Cultural Awareness & Anti-Racism Training with SLT
On January 13th, Kathleen, supported by Jim (Men and Youth) and Sinead (Education), delivered cultural awareness and anti-racism training to the Wicklow Speech and Language Therapy team at Knockrobin Primary Care Centre. The session focused on lived experiences, practical strategies for engagement, and the systemic barriers Travellers often face in accessing SLT services.
This training was well received by attendees and demonstrated a commitment to inclusive care. Supporting cultural competency among health professionals plays a key role in reducing health disparities and ensuring equitable service access.
Educating the Next Generation of Nurses, and building relationships
Earlier that week, on January 10th, Kathleen met with two Primary Healthcare Nursing students. She guided the students in building cultural sensitivity, understanding Traveller experiences, and developing respectful and effective communication practices—skills vital to creating inclusive future healthcare systems.
Bridging Gaps in Mental Health Services
In a further step toward inclusion, Nicky, Assistant Coordinator, visited the Recovery Village beside Newcastle Hospital. This facility, supported by Mental Health Wicklow, KWETB, and Arches Recovery College, provides wellness and recovery programming for those with mental health difficulties.
Currently, no Travellers are accessing this service, highlighting a clear service gap. Nicky took information and posters back to Ceart and invited Ellen, the Recovery Village coordinator, to meet the Traveller Primary Healthcare (TPHC) team—a connection facilitated by Peter O’Reilly (Traveller Mental Health, HSE).
This relationship marks a vital step in ensuring mental health services are accessible, culturally welcoming, and responsive to the needs of Travellers. Ongoing collaboration will support recovery, build trust, and foster inclusive support networks. We look forward to seeing Ellen later in the year.
Active Age Block 1 Evaluation – Flower Box Making
Our Active Age programme also kicked off the year with hands-on creativity. In January, the group completed Block 1: Flower Box Making, which was followed by an evaluation to better understand the impact of the sessions.
Here’s what we learned from the evaluation survey (N=5):
Quantitative Highlights:
100% felt accepted and included
100% said they enjoyed the activities a lot
100% felt relaxed during the sessions
60% said it supported their mental health “a lot”; the other 40% said “a little”
100% reported feeling more socially connected
80% said the activity improved fine motor skills a lot
80% felt it helped with focus, thinking, and memory a lot
One participant suggested they would like to go on more group outings, a great idea for future planning.
Qualitative Feedback:
Participants shared that the group offers a “break from the house” and is “something to look forward to.” Many described it as a space for learning, motivation, and communication, helping them feel relaxed and supported. One member noted it even helps them “get out of bed”—a powerful reflection of the group’s impact on emotional well-being.
Committed to Community Health and Inclusion
From staff training and student engagement to community art and mental health advocacy, we had a great start to 2025. Each activity reflects our mission to work together to improve the health experiences and outcomes for Travellers, in line with Goal 4 of the Eastern Regional Traveller Health Action Plan—strengthening partnerships, participation, and culturally sensitive services. We are also conscious that all our work aligns with NITRIS and the NTHAP. We look forward to building on this momentum throughout the year.
Wicklow Travellers Group – Community Development Project
January has been a great month for the Community Development Project, with all of our regular youth groups back up and running after the holidays.
We started a 6-week Men’s Over 16 Handball Programme, which has had a great response so far. It’s been brilliant to see the lads getting involved and enjoying the sessions.
Our Boys Group (ages 13–16) is going really well, with strong weekly attendance and great participation. The boys are engaging really well and supporting each other, which is great to see.
The Mixed Group (ages 10–12) is full of energy every week. It’s a lovely group where the kids are building friendships, confidence, and having lots of fun along the way. We also had a pancake day for the children to learn to make their own pancakes.
Our Girls Group (ages 11–15) continues to grow from strength to strength. The girls are showing great leadership and really making the space their own.
Well done to all the young people and men taking part, and a big thanks to the team for making it all happen. We’re looking forward to what the rest of the year will bring.