Barriers to effectively safeguarding and protecting children from Gypsy and Traveller backgrounds: a thematic analysis of Child Safeguarding Practice Reviews in England

Children from Gypsy and Traveller backgrounds in England continue to experience high levels of multiple disadvantage. Compared to other ethnic minorities, children from these backgrounds are disproportionately represented in children’s statutory safeguarding services. This article reports the findings of a small qualitative study of seven Child Safeguarding Practice Reviews (CSPR) produced in England since the implementation of the Equality Act (2010). The CSPRs relate to children from Gypsy and Traveller backgrounds who had been subject to safeguarding intervention under Section 17 or Section 47 of the Children Act (1989). The study employed documentary analysis to examine what factors helped or hindered statutory safeguarding practice with children who are from Gypsy and Traveller backgrounds in England. CPSRs were thematically analysed in accordance with Braun & Clarke’s six-step framework. Four key themes were identified. Findings suggest that a number of barriers have the potential to impede practitioners’ abilities to effectively safeguard and protect children from Gypsy and Traveller backgrounds from harm. This article recommends the need for increased supervisory support and continued professional development for practitioners who are working in safeguarding roles supporting children and families from Gypsy and Traveller backgrounds, grounded in principles of anti-oppressive and anti-discriminatory practice.