Women experiencing homelessness are among the most marginalised people in our communities.
When forced to sleep rough, many women have to keep themselves safe by staying hidden.
Every night, women are at risk of homelessness due to dangers including sexual and physical abuse. Some are forced into trafficking to make ends meet.
Sleeping on the streets significantly impacts women’s health and is leaving people in survival mode. 74% of women experiencing homeless have physical health issues, with barriers to accessing health and social care further worsening their physical wellbeing. 64% of women sleeping on the streets also face mental health issues; with depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder being the leading issues faced.
Despite women being 51% of the UK population they make up 60% of people living in temporary accommodation across the UK. The rise of women living in temporary accommodation has nearly doubled over the last 10 years with no sign of the trend ending anytime soon.
We need to provide funding for an increased supply of council homes to end women’s homelessness. We need to increase the amount of welfare support for women and others in need, and provide support for the further marginalised non-UK nationals who are at risk or currently sleeping on the street.”
