P309 The challenge of the nomads

Background Irish Travellers are a Roman Catholic endogamous minority group with origins dating back to the twelfth century. Latest figures estimate their numbers at 40,129 on the Island of Ireland. The Romani people colloquially known as the ‘Roma Gypsies’ are an indo-Aryan ethnic minority group originating from the northern Indian subcontinent, also traditionally itinerant and estimated to number 5000 in Ireland at any one time. Often overlooked, nomadic races are unique minority groups with specific health needs Aims Our objective was to investigate the knowledge and practices in relation to health and health intelligence of the modern nomadic races inhabiting our region with a particular focus on identifying key areas where intervention or education may reduce barriers and encourage access to healthcare, thus reducing health inequalities. Methods A review of the current available literature and a database search were undertaken and relevant Clinicians and organisations contacted in an effort to compile data on these two nomadic groups to inform appropriate action in the area of Traveller and Roma Child Health Results Nomadism is a core feature of their identity and involves more than just travel, the physical act of moving is just one aspect of a nomadic mindset that permeates every aspect of their lives. Nomadism entails a different way of looking at the world, a different way of perceiving things. Conclusion Our study highlights the difficulties of healthcare provision for nomadic groups and provides useful epidemiological information with particular reference to the healthcare needs of ‘invisible’ minority groups marginalised in our modern Irish society.