'Constant threat of violence' - Council to tackle “hidden” homelessness amongst women
Gateshead Council has approved plans to conduct a census to better understand the scale of female homelessness in the area.
The local authority, in conjunction with Oasis Community Housing, will now conduct the first women’s rough sleeping census this coming Autumn. According to a motion, passed in today’s full council meeting at Gateshead Civic Centre, women continue to be under-represented in rough sleeping statistics.
For instance, the government’s 2024 “snapshot of homelessness” in England, across 296 councils, found 680 women. Whereas, the Women’s Rough Sleeping Census, covering only 88 councils, found 1,014 women.
Coun Pamela Burns, vice-chair of the council’s women and girls committee, said: “This discrepancy underscores the gender bias in existing government counts, which under-represent some in homelessness data. Women are far more likely to sleep in hidden locations such as A&E waiting rooms, buses or trains, squats, or simply by walking around all night.
“This hidden nature of women’s homelessness makes it all the more critical to address their unique needs. The vulnerability of homeless women is further exacerbated by the constant threat of violence.
“Reports on attacks on homeless women are far too frequent, highlighting the need for greater protection and support. For example, women have shared experiences of being assaulted while trying to seek refuge in the very hidden locations I just mentioned.
“These stories are a stark reminder of the dangers faced by homeless women and the importance of creating safe spaces for them.”
The motion also calls for the census to be conducted annually and to inform the council’s homelessness policy moving forward. The motion was unanimously approved by both Labour and Lib Dem councillors.