HILFIELD FRIARY opened its doors to Dorset’s gypsy community to help give them a voice and break down social barriers.

‘Positive Stories: Different Lives’ is a joint initiative run by the Development Education in Dorset (DEED) in partnership with charity Kushti Bok – a voice for the local gypsy and traveller community.

DEED project co-ordinator Louise Boston-Mammah launched the project at Hilfield Friary near Dorchester by providing families with interview training and chance to interview one another and share their experiences on film.

By sharing the films on social media and throughout the wider community, the team hope to counter-balance the negative image many people have of gypsies and travellers.

Chairman of Kushti Bok, Romany gypsy Betty-Smith Billington said: “There are many, many gypsies living in the Dorset area who are hardworking, trustworthy people who are afraid to say who they are.

“I have worked in admin all my life and never, ever let it be known. I always said I lived two lives.”

Romany gypsies, and Irish and Scottish travellers are legally recognised as an ethnic minority who have long been subject to social exclusion.

For more information on training sessions email info.kushtibok@gmail.com