Essex County Council has several responsibilities in relation to the Gypsy and Traveller communities and the fostering of good relationships with settled communities within the county. In many cases, responsibilities are shared with other statutory authorities.

There are a range of services available to Gypsy and Traveller communities located within the county or passing through, including access to education and clear guidance on unauthorised encampments.

Additionally, we provide information for people concerned by potential unauthorised sites and clarify the council’s position.

The ultimate aim of Gypsy and Traveller Services is to ensure that all the residents of the county, whether living in settled or transitory communities, are treated equally and with respect. 

Essex Countywide Traveller Unit

We are currently discussing plans regarding the creation of an Essex Countywide Traveller Unit (ECTU), which will provide a more efficient service to the Gypsy and Traveller community.  

This will be a partnership made up of district, borough, city and unitary councils, Essex Fire and Rescue Service, Essex Police, Essex Primary Care Trusts and Essex County Council.

 
The areas of activity for the ECTU will include:

• improving fire safety on sites
• improving education outcomes
• improving health and social care access
• management of local authority sites
• managing unauthorised encampments
• reducing the risk of unauthorised developments
• providing outreach services to authorised sites not under ECC site management