Engaging with Traveller Communities

Recently, our team had the opportunity to attend the Traveller Awareness and Engagement event, a powerful and informative day centred on listening to Traveller voices, learning about Traveller culture, and building understanding around the barriers Traveller communities can face when accessing services.

Events like this are an important space for connection, not just between services and communities, but between people and experiences. For us, it was also a valuable chance to share information about Care Opinion and highlight why feedback matters.

Open conversations and lived experience

One of the most impactful parts of the event was the open panel discussion featuring Traveller representatives from Belfast and Meath. The conversation focused on the real barriers Traveller communities face across health, education and wider services. Hearing lived experiences directly from community members reinforced how essential it is to create safe, trusted ways for people to share feedback about their care.

These discussions reminded us that feedback is not just about highlighting problems , it’s about understanding context, culture and experience, and using that knowledge to improve services in a meaningful way.

Connecting through services and support

The event also included interactive service stands for informal, honest conversations between service providers and community members. We spoke to people about their experiences and introduced Care Opinion as an independent platform where they can safely share stories about health and social care.

Many people told us they welcomed having a clear, accessible way to give feedback and to know that their voices could be heard and responded to publicly.

Celebrating Traveller culture and heritage

A highlight of the day was the cultural heritage display delivered by Meath Travellers Workshops. The display included a traditional wagon, storytelling, a photo exhibition and live tinsmith demonstrations. These elements brought Traveller history and tradition to life and helped deepen understanding of a rich culture that is often misunderstood.

Seeing culture celebrated alongside conversations about services helped reinforce the importance of respect, inclusion and cultural awareness when delivering care.

Why feedback matters

Attending this event reinforced why feedback platforms like Care Opinion are so important. Feedback helps services learn, improve and build trust. It also gives people the chance to share both positive experiences and opportunities for change.

By listening actively and responding openly, health and social care services can work towards more inclusive, equitable care for everyone.

We also just want to say thank you to the organisers, Traveller representatives, service providers and everyone who took the time to engage in conversation with us on the day. These discussions, stories and shared experiences matter.