Over recent years Women’s Work has seen a rise in the number of women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness – for example, those living in temporary accommodation, a hostel, or ‘sofa surfing’.

Homelessness in Derby stands at 4.5% of the population compared with 0.29% in North East Derbyshire¹. Derby City Council reported 6 people sleeping rough in Derby during 2020, all of these male². But in actual fact, Women’s Work has supported some 28 women across the city identified as being ‘hidden homeless’, for example, those staying in a hostel, during the year. 

There are many reasons why people become homeless including mortgage or rent arrears leading to the loss of their home; parents no longer willing to provide accommodation, and through escaping from a violent relationship. Those who are being sexually abused or exploited, suffered abuse or trauma as a child, as well as young people leaving care, are also at greater risk of becoming homeless. 

Less than 15% of homeless people in England are women², but over half of these have been intimidated or threatened and one in four have been sexually assaulted³.

Read on to find out how Women’s Work is working in partnership through the WoRTH project to meet the needs of women who are at homeless or living in a hostel.

¹ Figures for 2018, see Derbyshire Observatory Poverty and Deprivation
² Figures for 2020, see Rough Sleeping Snapshot in England, Autumn 2020
³ Protecting Rough Sleepers and Renters: Interim Report First Report of Session 2019-21