This briefing seeks to present the issues of digital exclusion faced by Roma in their interactions with children’s services and the English legal system during care proceedings. The increased reliance on digital technology during the Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing disadvantages experienced by Roma communities in child protection processes. 

Evidence collected for the briefing forms part of a wider two-year project, funded by the Tudor Trust, to support Roma and other vulnerable groups in the context of child protection. This interim evidence will be augmented as the project develops.

Thanks

Advicenow would like to thank all Roma advocates and organisations working with Roma who shared their experience and knowledge with us: Luton Roma Trust, Roma Support Group, Clifton Learning Partnership, Granby & Toxteth Development Trust, Travelling Ahead: Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Advice & Advocacy Service, and St Edmund's Nursery School & Children's Centre and to all professionals who took part in our surveys. We are also grateful to Dr Joanna Kostka (Lancaster University) and Kate Williams (Advicenow’s volunteer).