Building up mutual trust is a key factor in working with Roma pupils and their families. Many people from the Roma community have had experiences of discrimination, both in education and from the wider society in their home countries and this has understandably led to feelings of hostility and mistrust of new people and experiences, especially of those in authority.

In an attempt to break down these barriers, READS staff have organised an annual social event aimed at Czech/Slovak Roma families. This year's Family Fun Day was held at The Barton and Tredworth Trust Centre. I worked closely with Bren McInerney from the Trust Centre in planning this event, which was funded by Gloucestershire Police, Gloucestershire Primary Care Trust and Gloucestershire County Council.

Prior to the event, we had meetings with several people from the Roma community, alongside representatives from a number of statutory and voluntary organisations. The aims of this multiagency partnership were for all parties to obtain a better understanding of the needs of the Roma community and also to develop a positive and constructive dialogue that would allow us all to work better together.

An overwhelmingly large number of adults and children turned up to enjoy the refreshments and activities on offer. About twenty READS staff provided entertainment, which ranged from face painting, jewellery making and mendhi handpainting to traditional party games such as pin the tail on the donkey and hoopla. The husband of one teacher kindly volunteered to spend the afternoon taking family portraits, which have since taken pride of place in many homes. The event was opened by Gloucester's MP, Parmajit Dhanda. Other dignitaries such as the Chief Constable of Police, Tim Brain, and the Mayor of Barton played a significant part in making the Roma community feel valued and welcome in Gloucester. A variety of agencies, including GDAS, Gloucester Trading Standards, Gloucester Fire Service and GARAS manned stands providing information and encouraging participation. These were supported by interpreters, some from the Roma community, in order to ensure equitable and fair access to local services.

One parent said of the day "Gloucester is good place to live. This is nice place to make friends". Several Roma pupils from Bishops' College helped their younger siblings to join in with the fun and games. Dominika commented "My teacher from my old school is here and the teachers who help me with English now are here. The policeman gave me a bike lock so I can ride to school. Everyone is happy. All the people are having a nice time at the party".

The next Roma Family event is planned for March 2009, and will be open to all EE Roma pupils and their families from Gloucestershire schools. Please contact Amanda Barns at READS for further information.