Members of the Irish Traveller Community face severe health inequalities arising from the social determinants of health, and the obstacles that they face in accessing healthcare services.

This project’s overall aim is to break down the barrier between Travellers and accessing health initiatives, health services, and health information.

In February, 11 new Community Health Workers joined the Ballyhoura Development team, and will be focused on delivering relevant and important health information to Travellers across East Limerick. Delivered in partnership with the HSE Traveller Health Unit, this project is one of five across the HSE Midwest region.

Supports on offer by this project include delivery of health information flyers and booklets, organisation of health clinic and information sessions, as well as signposting to suitable services and supports for Travellers.

This project works in close collaboration with the pre-existing supports for Travellers in Kilmallock, such as capacity building for men’s and women’s groups, and the East Limerick Traveller Interagency Network. 

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What's in plan?

The project will kick off with the first health information session planned for the 18th April, which is aimed at type 2 diabetes information. Members of the Traveller community are invited to come along to meet an HSE diabetes nurse for a free blood sugar check on that day, and to find out more about what foods can affect your blood sugars. This event will take place at the Pastoral Centre in Kilmallock between 10:30am and 1pm and is free of charge. 

The Ballyhoura Development Traveller Primary Health Team are also working on a celebration of Traveller Pride for the 28th May. This event will be open to the whole community and everyone is welcome to come and learn about the rich culture and traditions of Irish Travellers, with plenty of entertainment and things to see on the day. More information will be released closer to the time on the Ballyhoura Development website and the East Limerick Traveller Project Facebook page.

Find out more about the East Limerick Traveller Project

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