Overview of Travelling Showpeople
Travelling showpeople are members of a group that holds fairs, circuses, or shows. This excludes Gypsies and Travellers. Showpeople need secure, permanent bases to store equipment and live when not working. Many showpeople have been displaced from traditional sites in recent years.
The Lifestyle and Challenges
Traditionally itinerant groups in Europe known as "Travellers" or "Gypsies" have unclear origins. Showpeople adopt new transport methods for their unique lifestyle. Steam engines allowed for electric fairs with mechanical rides, lights, and music. They require permanent quarters for equipment storage and winter living.
Community and Accommodation Needs
Travelling showpeople faced prejudice for centuries, forming a distinct community with particular work and life. They, along with Gypsies and Travellers, face difficulties such as limited housing, services, poorer health and education, low employment, and racism. Councils need to assess and meet showpeople’s accommodation needs.
Conclusion
Councils must provide areas for caravans, mobile homes, equipment storage, repair, and testing for showpeople. Sites combine residential and commercial uses, and more showpeople are now occupying sites year-round, with increased localized traveling.