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xScottish Government apologises for past mistreatment of Gypsy/Traveller communities
Date: 22nd July 2025
Category:
General measures of implementation, General principles
The Scottish Government has formally acknowledged and apologised for the serious harm caused to Gypsy/Traveller communities by past government policies. One of the most damaging being the so-called “Tinker Experiment,” a programme that aimed to force Gypsy/Travellers to settle in mainstream housing.
Supported by both the UK Government and Scottish local authorities, the experiment involved removing Gypsy/Travellers from their homes and placing them in poor-quality, overcrowded accommodation across Scotland. In many cases, families were split up, and children were taken from their parents. These actions caused long-term trauma and disruption to family life.
First Minister John Swinney issued a formal apology in the Scottish Parliament in a major statement on 25th June 2025, acknowledging the deep and lasting harm caused by these policies. He spoke of the “significant and lasting” trauma experienced by those affected, particularly children, and recognised that this trauma has continued across generations. The First Minister also condemned the prejudice and lack of cultural understanding that underpinned the policies. Recent government reports stress that the discrimination faced by Gypsy/Traveller communities is not just a thing of the past as they continue to experience inequality in areas such as education, healthcare, housing, and employment. Furthermore, many still face poverty and social exclusion.
The reports call for real change, including greater accountability from public services and a shift in attitudes across society. They urge a move towards equality, where Gypsy/Travellers have fair access to opportunities and are treated with dignity and respect. The Scottish Government has pledged to work with Gypsy/Traveller communities to tackle ongoing prejudice and improve their access to public services. There is a strong focus on protecting the rights of Gypsy/Traveller children and ensuring their wellbeing in the future.
In its most recent recommendations to the UK and Scottish Governments, the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child expressed serious concern about the continued discrimination faced by Gypsy/Traveller children. The Committee urged both Governments to take stronger action to eliminate prejudice, ensure equal access to education, healthcare, housing, and support services, and to actively involve Gypsy/Traveller communities in decisions that affect their lives.