Come to Us in a Peaceful Way is a collaborative mixed-methods research project conducted by Lancaster University (Centre for Child and Family Justice Research), Anglia Ruskin University, and Law for Life (now AdviceNow). The study investigates the structural, cultural, and systemic factors contributing to the involvement of Roma families with children’s services in England. Drawing on interviews, community engagement, and policy analysis, it reveals how institutional discrimination, data limitations, and low legal capability intersect to create barriers to equitable service access. The project offers critical insights for developing culturally competent, anti-discriminatory, and community-embedded social work practices.
This research explored why Roma families in England often have difficult experiences with children’s social services. Carried out by Lancaster University, Anglia Ruskin University, and AdviceNow, the study found that discrimination, poverty, and a lack of cultural understanding often make it harder for Roma families to get the support they need. It also showed how better training, clearer communication, and community-based support can help improve trust and outcomes. The project calls for fairer policies and better ways to work with Roma families to keep children safe and connected to their communities.
The project found that Roma families in England face significant barriers when engaging with children’s services, shaped by systemic discrimination, poverty, and cultural misunderstandings. Inconsistent and poorly disaggregated data obscures the scale of Roma involvement, limiting effective responses. Interactions are often hindered by mistrust, lack of cultural competence among professionals, and limited access to legal information. However, the study also identified that early intervention, community-based social work, and culturally competent, collaborative practices can foster more positive and equitable engagement.
