Today marked the launch of this year’s Women’s Rough Sleeping Census data launch. Over 100 local authorities worked hand in hand with partners like St Mungo’s to shine a light on the hidden women experiencing homelessness.
The Census shows that there were 10 times as many women identified as rough sleeping in certain areas, in comparison to official government statistics from the Rough Sleeping Snapshot. There was a 39% increase in the number of women identified as sleeping rough since the 2024 Census data was collected.
Emma Haddad, CEO at St Mungo’s, says:
“Today’s findings from the Women’s Rough Sleeping Census show the extent to which women are being overlooked in homelessness and underrepresented in official data.
“Our outreach teams work tirelessly to find and support women who are sleeping rough in places that people would not necessarily associate with homelessness. We know that women experiencing homelessness are more likely to seek out safer public spaces to reduce the risk of harm – whether that’s train and bus stations, hospital waiting rooms, nighttime transport networks or 24-hour cafés.
“Many women have been forced onto the streets due to harassment, abuse and violence, only to face further danger when sleeping rough. This means that not only is their homelessness less visible, but the complexities of their experiences also make accessing specialist support even more critical.
“At St Mungo’s we know how important it is to provide specialist support to women. Our services provide safe, supportive and trauma-informed environments where women can access vital support and begin to rebuild their lives.
“Currently, the Women’s Rough Sleeping Census is the only collection of data and insight that brings together local authorities and charities to build a clearer picture of women’s homelessness, ensuring that more women are seen, heard and supported.
“This vital work remains fragmented however, and too many women continue to go unseen. We are calling on the Government to work in partnership with local authorities and charities and make the Women’s Rough Sleeping Census a national requirement. Only then can we ensure that every woman experiencing homelessness is counted and supported.”
