This project explored one of the issues affecting access to health care services by Gypsy Travellers, namely the cultural competence of health professionals. The aim of the project was to support the development of cultural competence in health professionals through an exploration of staff attitudes, knowledge, and understanding of the cultural identity and health needs of Gypsy Travellers.Participants were drawn from community nursing services and members of the Irish Traveller community. The data collated from staff suggested there was limited understanding of Gypsy Traveller culture, health needs, or issues affecting the community, and the perceptions held were informed largely by negative media stereotypes.The benefi ts of honest, nonjudgmental, open discussion within professional forums about the existence and impact of bias and prejudice on practice were highlighted alongside the need for an improved understanding of the issues faced by Gypsy Travellers to improve access to care by this often excluded and marginalized community.Th is work was funded by the Mary Seacole Awards scheme, which supports projects or other educational activity benefi ting the health needs of people from Black and minority ethnic communities.

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