AN INSUFFICIENT number of pitches on overcrowded traveller sites in York is leading to many travellers now living in houses dotted around the city - with an impact on their mental health, a report has claimed.

The York Human Rights Indicator Report, published by York: Human Rights City, says: "Living away from the community leads to feelings of isolation and segregation, increased levels of depression and anxiety and overall decline of the community and its cultural ideals.

"Participants reported increased rates of mental ill-health and suicides. They believe that when assigning accommodation, the City of York Council fails to take into consideration their cultural and community needs."

It says that for refugees, there are a series of barriers to entering the private rented market, including Government legislation requiring landlords to be responsible for checking immigration documents proving tenants have the right to rent property, which is 'deterring landlords from engaging with the refugee market.'

The report recommends that the council should engage more closely with marginalised communities, such as gypsies, travellers, asylum seekers and refugees, to better understand the particular needs of each group.

Other findings in the report include: 

>>> How the use of foodbanks in York has soared by a quarter 

>>> How York's rough sleepers have been attacked, abused and urinated on

>>> The average life expectancy in York - area by area

The report can be downloaded here

For more information about York being the UK's first human rights city visit https://www.yorkhumanrights.org/