Kushti Bok
Having experienced prejudice and exclusion throughout their lives, members of the Gypsy and Traveller communities in Dorset formed a group, Kushti Bok, to overcome negative stereotyping and to encourage learning. Part of the largest single ethnic minority in the county, they are using their culture and skills to help others understand them.
The 10-strong group was formed after partnership working with the ESF-funded Matchmaker project at Kingston Maurward College. Inspired by the college’s approach to ask what education and training they needed to improve their lives, participants were pleased that courses could be delivered flexibly at times and places which suited their lifestyles. Through the Matchmaker project, over 100 Gypsies and Travellers have achieved qualifications at Levels 1 to 3, from large goods vehicle driving, hairdressing and beauty therapy, to chainsaw operation, childcare and teaching.
As the group has grown in number, so too has their confidence. With a philosophy of “Nothing about us without us”, they have become members of various consultative and advisory groups, including local authority and mental health agencies.
Kushti Bok has been invited to design and deliver awareness training to Dorset Police for both new recruits and serving officers. The group meets monthly at Kingston Maurward and has also organised and delivered two local conferences and one national event to raise awareness of the needs of Gypsies and Travellers across the UK.
Ruth McGill, one of the Kushti Bok learners said, “We are working to overcome discrimination towards us. Kushti Bok has encouraged people to believe in themselves and supported them to achieve their dreams and aspirations.”