Travellers

Gypsies and Travellers in Devon

Nomadic people have always been a part of our community. Over the recent years many of the traditional stopping places have been lost and this has led to a growing conflict between the settled community and nomadic people seeking a place to stay.

Constantly moving on Gypsy / Traveller families is seen as rather a blunt instrument for dealing with unauthorised camping. Our greater awareness of nomadism and our aim to embrace diversity within our community requires us to look for more creative solutions.

Devon County Council's approach

Devon has worked hard to develop a workable solution to what is often both an emotive and sensitive issue. We work closely with our adjoining counties to develop a productive and proactive approach based on Government's 'Guidelines for Good Practice' and many years of experience.

travellers.

The County Council aims to find solutions through negotiation and liaison, using legal action as a last resort.

By taking into account all the concerns of those affected and adopting a 'firm but fair' policy we have built up a working relationship with the nomadic community.

This policy has resulted in a minimal number of evictions with their associated financial and social costs.

Everyone wants a solution but we must all be a part of that solution.

Responsibilities

All public bodies are required to take into account the issues of health, education and welfare of those encamped and balance this against the 'level of nuisance'. Unauthorised camping is often dealt with as a joint approach but in summary the responsibilities are:

Gypsies & Travellers Liaison Officer:

  • Responsible for County Council land and highways in relation to solutions.

The prime tool is negotiation, resorting to eviction as a last resort. The Gypsies & Travellers Liaison Officer may also provide support and advice to both the settled and travelling community on a broad range of related issues.

  • Sabrina Thomas
  • Gypsy & Travellers Liaison Officer
  • 07967397618
  • sabrina.thomas@devon.gov.uk  

District Council land

Private land

  • is the responsibility of the land owner. Where there is 'serious concern of civil unrest', 'health & safety issues' or 'obstruction of the highway' the Police may choose to act directly.

Illegal activity

  • is the responsibility of the Police to prove and prosecute if appropriate.

Fly tipping or abandoned vehicles

  • proof and prosecution is the responsibility of the District Council's Environmental Health Department. To minimise the impact some District Councils do provide black bags and collection.

Concerns over animals

  • should be reported to the RSPCA or District Council Dog Warden who will investigate.

Legal support contacts

General contacts

See also:

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Devon County Council, Topsham Road, Exeter, EX2 4QD

Our contact numbers | Fax: 0845 155 1003 | SMS: 0777 3333 231

E-mail: customer@devon.gov.uk