A local group has received recognition for its efforts to improve conditions in Bradford.
The Bradford Gypsy and Traveller women’s association was awarded the Inspirational Project Award at a ceremony in Brighton hosted by the organization Friends, Families and Travellers, which celebrates outstanding accomplishments within Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities.
Amber, a resident of Mary Street who takes part in the women’s association, described how during a meeting with Mary Street site residents, she simply asked whether Leeds GATE could help them start a women’s group, including assistance in finding space and time to meet, ideas for skills to learn, and sharing cultural traditions. She also mentioned the social aspect of getting together to try new activities, going on outings, and doing things with the children.
With assistance from the Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Exchange (Leeds GATE), the group began as a project to improve conditions at the Mary Street local authority-run caravan site.
Located close to industrial operations such as a quarry, abattoir, and waste processing facility, the site has long raised worries about the wellbeing of those living there.
Mary, community manager at Leeds GATE, said these women embody family, pride and strength across many generations, and their determination continued through setting up this group. She noted the impact goes beyond words for both the women and their children, and that this recognition is thoroughly merited for such a courageous, entertaining and remarkable group of women, shining a light on communities across West Yorkshire.
The Bradford Women’s Group at Leeds GATE claimed the Inspirational Project Award
The group has grown to include around 15 women from across Bradford, meeting each week at a community venue to tackle isolation.
Bridie, a participant, noted the group proves essential for keeping community connections since not everyone comes from just the site.
Dawn Honey, a founding member, accepted the honour at the Brighton event. She expressed gratitude and noted they are two small Gypsy girls who joined together and created this group, which has brought significant benefit to Yorkshire and to Traveller women and children.
As well as their work to improve site conditions, the group has led an anti-hate crime campaign, participated in health research, and jointly created a photography exhibition at Cartwright Hall Gallery. The display attracted almost 20,000 visitors between June and September.
Linda Barker, who leads Leeds GATE’s Bradford team, said they take tremendous pride in their members throughout Bradford and all they have achieved, not only for themselves but for what this can mean for Gypsies and Travellers in the area.