How to Answer a Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Needs Assessment (GTANA)

In order to assess the need for Gypsy and Traveller pitches in any local authority area, the local authority conducts what are sometimes referred to as Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Needs Assessments (GTANAs).

 

The planning policy for Traveller sites (PPTS December 2023) defines Gypsies and Travellers as:

Persons of nomadic habit of life whatever their race or origin, including such persons who on grounds only of their own or their family’s or dependants’ educational or health needs or old age have ceased to travel temporarily or permanently, but excluding members of an organised group of travelling showpeople or circus people travelling together as such.

As the assessments are being done to work out if there is a need for more Gypsy/Traveller sites in your area, it is really important that you take part in the process so that your Council identifies the true level of need for sites in your area. Planning authorities, however, will also be required to consult social housing providers, representatives of Gypsies and Travellers communities and landowners in the area.

Your council will almost certainly employ consultants to carry out the assessment and you will probably be asked to complete a questionnaire. How you answer the assessment questions is really important as it will affect the number of pitches required in your area.

Even if you are living in bricks and mortar, it may be important for the council to involve you in the GTANA, as many Travellers are forced to live in certain types of housing despite having an aversion to bricks and mortar. This is because the working definition of Gypsies and Travellers still includes people who may not be living nomadically.

Please read our information leaflet for some guidance on how to respond to GTANA questionnaires.

If you have any further questions about GTANAS, contact us:

Friends, Families and Travellers

We provide advocacy casework, advice and information to Gypsies and Travellers on our national helpline.

Telephone: 01273 234 777. Our helpline is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4.30pm, with the exception of bank holidays.

This is for information only. FFT does not endorse any organisation shared on the FFT website.

Correct as of March 2024.

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