At our latest Leeds Frontline Network event, we came together to reflect on the 2024 Women’s Rough Sleeping Census—and what it tells us about the unique challenges women face when experiencing homelessness in Leeds in preparation for this year’s census in September.
One clear message emerged: homelessness systems are still designed around men’s experiences. Women often sleep in unsafe, hidden places—like A&E, buses, or walking all night—making them invisible in traditional rough sleeping counts. This has serious consequences, especially when national data influences local funding.
As one attendee said: “Women are adept at safety planning and managing their own safety in ways men do not have to consider in this way.”
We discussed the need for trauma-informed approaches and how out-of-hours engagement is often when women are most reachable yet rarely funded appropriately. There’s also a growing need to better involve and reach out to LGBTQ+, especially those supporting trans women and racially minoritised organisations,
Attendees shared practical ideas to improve the census this year:
- Add more narrative and qualitative questions (while still keeping it brief and trauma informed)
- Include training and trauma-informed support for those doing the outreach.
- Create a WhatsApp group for coordination pre, during and post week
- Ensure health needs are specified (physical, mental, and sexual health)
The census doesn’t just collect data—it brings services together, challenges assumptions and helps us build support systems that reflect real women’s lives.
If you are a frontline worker and would like to get involved in the 2025 Women’s Rough Sleeping Census or access the regular Frontline Worker network meetings in Leeds, sign up for the mailing list to receive updates and be notified about future events.
