New bench marks Gypsy Traveller Roma History Month

Young people from the Gypsy Traveller Community have hand carved an eye-catching bench for patients and visitors at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire.
The young people from Bush School, Pembroke designed and carved the bench which was funded by the health board’s Support for Life and the Priory Project.
Equality and Diversity Officer Jane Whalley said; “Research shows that Gypsies and Travellers suffer from a range of preventable health problems but are often put off from seeking help because of past negative experiences or fear of discrimination.
“A project like this helps to build trust and encourages the community to get involved with the health board in decisions on design and delivery of services that are more accessible for their communities.
“By creating more accessible services and improving the patient experience for Gypsy Travellers, the health board will support them to live healthy lives across all age groups.
“This project has helped bring the two communities together and the young people have learnt traditional skills of gypsy art and craft and the hospital benefits from a unique bench which I’m sure will be a talking point for staff, patients and visitors.”
The official unveiling of the bench formed part of the celebrations for Gypsy Traveller Roma History Month.