Yes we're one of the most deprived groups in the UK. Poor access to education and healthcare, and prejudice in education and workplaces are big factors in that.
Billy and Joe's deaths were awful and a huge shock to the community. Mental health is known to be a taboo subject still amongst men, but in gypsy men it is very much unspoken about. There is a great pride, a need amongst gypsy men to be seen as strong and masculine. Mental health is not something that is ever discussed. I have a huge soft spot for the Irish Traveller Tyson Fury for speaking about his struggles, it's really helped to open up discussions. And with him being a strong, masculine man it's challenged the perception that having mental illness makes you a weak man.