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Roma people who have moved from new EU accession countries have established significant communities in many towns and cities in England, yet their needs and the responsibilities of local authorities are often unknown to local decision-makers. This report is an introduction to these issues. It needs to be reinforced by a more substantial sharing of information, descriptions of good practice and expert support and training.

New jigsaws to celebrate the festival of Mikulas, featuring Roma Children

On 6th December, eastern European Roma children and their families observe the festival of Mikulas. This festival is on St. Nicholas’s day and is based on a story about the saint. The modern day story of Father Christmas grew out of this legend. To celebrate this special day, we are offering two new jigsaws aimed at younger children. They depict Roma children from Salford, Greater Manchester, in December 2009, enjoying a Mikulas party organised by the Broughton Trust and delivered through RAPAR.

The wooden jigsaws are presented in plastic envelopes and measure approximately 17cm x 25cm.

One jigsaw has 6 pieces without prongs and is suitable for the very youngest children and the other has 8 conventional pieces. The puzzles are accompanied by an information sheet about the festival of Mikulas. The simpler jigsaw shows a little boy and his bag of goodies with Father Christmas. The other puzzle features Father Christmas with an angel and the Devil.

The jigsaws are £8.50 each, or £17 for 2, plus approx £2 p&p depending on quantity. To order or for more information contact Sandy at RAPAR on 0161 834 8221, admin@rapar.org.uk or contact her directly on 07594 596 905.

This is a non-profit-making venture and all proceeds will be used to support future Roma projects.