This Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) History Month, Rooftop Housing Group proudly celebrates the stories of residents like John, who moved into a new home at Rosamond Close, Siskin Drive, Coventry in January 2025.
For John, the move marks the end of a ten-year wait. “It’s unreal,” he said. “The kids are so happy. It’s lovely to be off the side of the road and be settled now, as a settled Traveller.” With spacious rooms, a shed for extra living space, and safe surroundings, his family finally has the stability they need.
Safe, secure homes are not just about bricks and mortar—they lay the foundation for opportunity. GRT communities continue to face some of the most severe inequalities in education. GRT pupils have the lowest attainment of any ethnic group at all Key Stages1and they are more likely to face exclusion, restraint, and isolation in school.2
By providing permanent, well-designed homes, Rooftop Housing Group is helping families break down these barriers. Stable housing supports regular school attendance, emotional wellbeing, and better educational outcomes. As John said, “My kids going to school, getting settled… it’s everything.”
Rooftop remains committed to listening to the GRT community and creating spaces where families not only live—but thrive. With inclusive planning, sites like Rosamond Close become more than housing. They’re places of pride, safety, and opportunity.
This GTR History Month, we celebrate not only heritage—but progress and hope for the next generation.
1 Submission to the Call for Evidence on Improving the Curriculumand Assessment System: Curriculum-Call-for-Evidence-branded-2.pdf
2 FFTwarns UN that children’s rights have worsened in England - Friends, Familiesand Travellers
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