Are We Overlooking the Invisible Homeless Women Among Us?

In London, charity workers are conducting the Women's Rough Sleeping Census to illuminate the often hidden experiences of female rough sleepers. This initiative aims to gather data on the unique challenges faced by women living on the streets, as their realities are frequently underreported and misunderstood.

Last updated: 06 October 2023 (BST)

Understanding the Women's Rough Sleeping Census

The Women's Rough Sleeping Census, initiated in 2022, serves as a vital tool for capturing the realities of women who experience homelessness. It addresses the inadequacies of previous data, which has often underestimated the number of women sleeping rough. This census not only counts but also gathers personal accounts to shed light on their experiences.

Key Takeaways

• Women's rough sleeping is significantly underreported; estimates suggest over ten times the number indicated by government data.
• The census collects qualitative data through interviews, providing a voice to women's experiences.
• Many women avoid traditional sleeping arrangements for safety, leading to more transient and hidden forms of homelessness.
• Violence against women is both a cause and consequence of homelessness.
• Government support needs to reflect the unique challenges faced by women to effectively tackle homelessness.

The Need for a Dedicated Approach

According to Lucy Campbell, assistant director at the Single Homeless Project, the issue of female rough sleeping has long been an area of concern. "We've known for years that women's rough sleeping is underestimated," she explains. The Women's Rough Sleeping Census was designed to provide the much-needed data to back these claims and advocate for change.

Challenges Faced by Female Rough Sleepers

Women experiencing homelessness often encounter unique challenges that distinguish their experiences from those of men. Safety concerns lead many to sleep in locations that are not easily visible, such as on buses, in fast food restaurants, or even walking around all night. These choices not only make them less visible to outreach efforts but also expose them to increased risks of violence and exploitation.

The Hidden Nature of Women's Homelessness

During the census, the team observed that many women disguise their gender to avoid unwanted attention and potential violence. One encounter involved a 59-year-old woman who had been homeless for several years. Her transient lifestyle made it clear that she was not accessing the support systems available, highlighting a significant gap in assistance for women on the streets.

Real Stories, Real Struggles

As the team continued their count, they met Laura, a 42-year-old woman who had arrived in London just days prior, seeking to reconnect with her daughter. Laura's story is a poignant reminder of the complex realities many women face. She described her past life, including a marriage that ended due to her husband's alcoholism, and the subsequent years she spent sleeping rough.

The Impact of Violence

The experiences of violence faced by women are stark. Kathryn Parsons, from Solace, notes that many women they spoke with during the census reported experiencing violence both as a cause of their homelessness and as a direct consequence of living on the streets. This cycle of violence further complicates their ability to seek help and find stable housing.

A Call for Action

It's crucial for policymakers to recognise the distinct challenges faced by women experiencing homelessness. The government has acknowledged the importance of the Women's Census, with a spokesperson stating that it helps to understand the challenges women face in accessing support. However, more must be done to address the root causes of women's homelessness, particularly in relation to safety and violence.

Future Directions for Support

The outcomes of the Women's Rough Sleeping Census are intended to inform better policies and support systems for women. As charities continue to gather data, they hope to build a clearer picture of the scale of the issue and advocate for increased funding and tailored support services. The ultimate goal is to enhance the safety and wellbeing of women at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

Conclusion

The Women's Rough Sleeping Census is a vital step towards understanding and addressing the hidden crisis of female homelessness. By highlighting the unique challenges faced by women, charities aim to push for meaningful change and ensure that these voices are not only heard but acted upon. Moving forward, it is essential for both the government and society to support initiatives that recognise and address the specific needs of women experiencing homelessness.

FAQs

What is the Women's Rough Sleeping Census?

The Women's Rough Sleeping Census is an annual initiative launched in 2022 that collects data on the experiences of women who sleep rough, aiming to highlight their unique challenges and inform better support strategies.

Why is women's homelessness often underestimated?

Women's homelessness is frequently underestimated due to their tendency to sleep in less visible locations for safety reasons, as well as the lack of tailored data collection that addresses their specific experiences.

What challenges do female rough sleepers face?

Female rough sleepers often face heightened risks of violence and exploitation, particularly as they tend to avoid traditional sleeping arrangements and may not seek help due to fear of discrimination or violence.

How can the government improve support for homeless women?

The government can improve support by recognising the unique challenges women face, increasing funding for tailored services, and ensuring that outreach efforts specifically address the needs of women experiencing homelessness.

What role do charities play in addressing this issue?

Charities play a crucial role by conducting research, providing direct support to homeless women, and advocating for policy changes to improve access to services and resources that address their unique needs.