Gypsy/Travelling People and Unauthorised Encampments

Improving the lives of Gypsy/Traveller communities is a key human rights commitment for the Scottish Government and COSLA. It is essential that public bodies tackle deep-rooted inequalities to help build a fairer, more inclusive Scotland. Gypsy/Travellers often face:

• Erosion of their traditional lifestyle.
• Poorer outcomes in living standards, education, health, and employment.
• Persistent stereotyping and hostility.

Gypsy/Traveller communities have the right to:

• Safe and culturally appropriate places to live and travel.
• Understand their rights and access services positively.
• Support to maximise income, employment opportunities, and living standards.
• Be safe, respected, and valued members of Scotland's diverse population.
• Be heard and included in decisions affecting their lives.

West Lothian

There is no designated permanent or temporary site in West Lothian for Gypsy/Travellers. All encampments are unauthorised and self-selected by the community while passing through the area.

Role of the Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) - Unauthorised Encampment

Upon receiving intelligence or reports of an unauthorised encampment, SNT Officers will visit the site to:

• Engage respectfully with Gypsy/Travellers and offer support services/referrals
• Identify the encampment's location (Council vs. private land)
• Ascertain intended length of stay
• Engage with other Community Safety Partners as necessary
• Determine if the encampment is on WLC land where they will contact Legal Services to prepare a Notice to Quit (NTQ)
• Determine if the encampment is on private land where they will liaise with the landowner for them to take any action
• Hand-deliver NTQ.
• Contact necessary partners re compliance of NTQ /eviction process
• Arrange clear-up process and evaluate impact