Cambridgeshire Health Booklet - NHS Cumbria

Language differences
It is important to note that differences in
language and understanding may impact on
your work with individuals from Gypsy and
Travelling communities. It is important that
health professionals do not use jargon.
Gypsies and Travellers will often take a lead
from other people’s behaviour, particularly if
they can’t read. For example if they see others
smoking in a particular area they may assume
it is OK to smoke there.
Family Health Care
Men and women from Gypsy and Travelling
communities may gather separately to focus on
specific needs. Men and women’s issues are
often discussed separately and dealt with in
different ways. For example, if a woman has a
new baby breastfeeding may not be discussed
in front of men.
It can be useful to check people’s
understanding following a discussion
or consultation.
Information leaflets are not always
appropriate due to difficulties with
literacy. Consider other forms of
providing information such as audio
tape, video or dvd.
Gypsy and Traveller Hygiene
Most Gypsies and Travellers have high
standards of hygiene, and elaborate rituals of
cleanliness. For example they will use separate
bowls for washing dishes, clothes, and food
preparation, as well as different parts of the
body. This is important to note if treating a
Gypsy or Traveller in their home or particularly
if treating them at a hospital session.
It may be useful to have a sensitive
discussion with patients to explain
about treatment and to understand
their hygiene routines.
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