Beyond the Shadows: Navigating the Unseen World of Women in Hidden Homelessness
Serena, shares her thoughts from our project addressing hidden homelessness among women.
One of my favourite projects of 2023 was when ClearView Research (CVR) teamed up with the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and PowerWith to look for an evidence based and inclusive approach to capturing the scale of women experiencing ‘hidden’ homelessness in the UK, specifically unhoused/unsheltered women.
In 2023, the Single Homeless Project found that 14% of recorded rough sleepers are women, however, this doesn’t account for those who are less visible and are hidden. Hidden homelessness is a complex challenge, often escaping the conventional measurements of housing statistics. Many women experiencing this form of homelessness find themselves on the margins of society, unseen and unheard. The collaboration between CVR and ONS was a crucial step towards a more systematic and empathetic understanding of this issue.
As a lead researcher, I thoroughly enjoyed talking to women who had current and past experiences of hidden homelessness (experts by experience) and women who worked in services or researched women in hidden homelessness (experts by profession). These conversations allowed us to delve into the nuances of hidden homelessness. For instance, one woman shared:
“I can feel low/depressed due to the situation and feel that no help is given, you’re seen as not a priority which is frustrating and humiliating. Everyone is entitled to housing.”
This partnership was not just about numbers; much of the data on homelessness is statistical but lacks context. This project allowed the voices of those who have been living in the shadows to be amplified as well as the power to shape what research on homelessness should look like.
One of the major findings was the power of accessibility and inclusion when speaking to women in hidden homelessness. This power is transformative, offering a lifeline to those facing the often-overlooked challenges of insecure housing. By recognising and addressing the hidden nature of their homelessness, accessible resources and tailored support services can be provided. Breaking down barriers, both physical and systemic, enables these women to seek help without fear of judgement or stigma. Inclusive communication, free from stereotypes, fosters trust, allowing for the development of supportive relationships.
Empowering women through community engagement and a trauma-informed approach not only addresses immediate needs but also contributes to rebuilding confidence and resilience. Education and awareness play pivotal roles, advocating for systemic changes that comprehensively address the root causes of homelessness, ultimately working towards a society where every woman, regardless of her housing situation, can access the support she needs to rebuild her life.
This project highlighted the need to bring humanity and empathy into the realm of research, recognising the dignity and diversity of every woman facing hidden homelessness and paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive society.
You can learn more about hidden homelessness by reading our three work reports here.