This project has entailed use of a variety of qualitative methodologies as a result of the mixed data sources mined for information on the subject of housed Gypsies and Travellers.

Literature review

A combination of desk-top and manual library searches was undertaken to gather information on the presence of Gypsies and Travellers in areas relevant to the study. Whilst the authors possess a considerable number of the relevant texts cited, further research was undertaken in the University of Liverpool library (Gypsy Lore Society collection); the University of Cambridge library and the British Library, London. Internet searches utilising search terms such as ‘housed’, ‘Traveller’ and ‘Gypsy’ were made. The Merton Historical Society was a useful source of information on the Gypsy connection to south London. In addition, sweeps of specialist collections such as the Old Bailey on-line search engine, archives of local history held in public libraries and generalised searches for references to Gypsies and Travellers in specific areas of London, the South East and South West were undertaken.

Secondary analysis of Gypsy Traveller Accommodation Assessment (GTAA) data

As the authors have, in partnership and individually, undertaken a considerable number of GTAAs across the study areas we were privileged to have access to full data sets for the wider areas within which our focused studies took place (other than London).

The process by which we undertook calculations of the numbers of Gypsies and Travellers and the general methodology entailed in undertaking GTAAs is explained in depth in Chapter Four. Having access to primary data sources meant that we were able to carry out detailed analysis of core themes of interest in this text – drawing on occasion on qualitative quotations gathered for the purposes of relevant GTAAs.

Focus group data

Within the GTAAs which we have been responsible for, or worked on, we have evolved a practice of embedding focus groups into our research design to enable us to explore key themes (both with professionals and community members) in greater depth. The transcripts of focus groups carried out with Gypsy and Traveller participants resident in housing were data-washed and sorted to enable selection of housed participants, then subjected to in-depth secondary analysis utilising ‘Framework’ processes (Ritchie and Spencer, 1994).