Angus has a long and deeply rooted connection with Scotland’s Gypsy/Traveller community, a traditionally nomadic group with a distinct cultural identity. Often settling along traditional stopping places throughout the county, Gypsy/Travellers contribute to the region’s cultural tapestry through their customs, trades, music, and storytelling.
Despite their rich heritage, Gypsy/Travellers continue to face social exclusion, discrimination, and significant barriers to accessing public services.
Angus Council provides services to Gypsy/Traveller communities supporting their specific requirements and needs, whether they are permanent Angus residents or visitors to the county.
We always seek to balance the needs of an encampment with those of the settled community in the area.
Improving the Lives of Scotland’s Gypsy/Travellers 2: action plan 2024-2026 (Scottish Government)
Permanent sites
Angus Council has a dedicated Gypsy/Travellers site at St Christopher's in Montrose. This site is currently full and has a waiting list for prospective tenants. Find out more about finding a home in Angus.
In addition, Angus Council can direct encampments to Dundee City Council’s site at Balmuir, Tealing.
Unauthorised encampments
Angus Council recognises the long cultural tradition Gypsy/Traveller communities have with certain areas historically, and that this can lead to unauthorised encampments.
Angus Council manages these with consistent, fair and flexible actions while also taking into consideration the individual circumstances of each encampment and its residents. We will also consider the needs of the settled community.
Unauthorised encampments can sometimes give rise to friction with local communities if they are in inappropriate locations or are not being conducted responsibly. The standards of behaviour expected of Gypsy/Travellers are the same as those expected of the settled community.
- Policy for the management of unauthorised encampments (Angus Council)
- Managing unauthorised camping by Gypsy/Travellers in Scotland: guidance for local authorities (Scottish Government)
If you have concerns about an unauthorised encampment in Angus, contact us.
Services available to Gypsy/Traveller groups
Gypsy/Traveller groups are encouraged to use the links below to access services while in Angus. Angus Council staff visiting encampments can also provide information on services:
- Housing
- Benefits and money advice
- Health (NHS Inform)
- MECOPP (Minority Ethnic Carers of People Project) Charity
- Scottish Government guidance and contacts for Gypsy/Travellers
For advice on education for children not enrolled in schools, email ruiz-fernandezo@angus.gov.uk.
Hate crime
Everyone has a right to access our services and to be treated fairly. If you have been subject to any form of hate incident, contact Police Scotland.