Emmanuel House supports efforts to uncover hidden homelessness among women in Nottingham
We’re proud to support Nottingham City’s participation in the Women’s Rough Sleeping Census, taking place from 22nd to 28th September 2025. This vital initiative aims to shine a light on the often unseen and unrecorded experiences of women facing homelessness and rough sleeping.
Women experiencing homelessness are frequently absent from traditional counts. The 2024 Census findings are stark – more than 10 times as many women are sleeping rough in England than Government data suggests. Their experiences may include walking through the night, staying in bus and train stations, 24-hour public toilets, or sleeping in unsafe places. Some may be forced to exchange sex for shelter. These women often remain hidden, constantly moving to stay safe, and are frequently invisible to mainstream services.
The Census, coordinated nationally by Solace Women’s Aid, calls on a wide range of services to take part – including homelessness support services, health teams, housing options teams, drug and alcohol services, women’s services, and more.
Nicola Ramsdale, Marketing and Fundraising Manager at Emmanuel House, says:
“Often, we are seeing women who are very unwell and who have multiple complex needs. Women are more likely to experience different types of abuse as a “safety net” in order to survive. They require support, care and treatment from a variety of agencies. During Census Week, we will be completing the anonymised survey with women who have had no safe place to stay for at least one night during July, August, or September. This research will help us understand how women’s experiences with homelessness and rough sleeping can be different from men’s, and advocate for improved support and services.”
By participating in the Women’s Rough Sleeping Census, Nottingham is taking a crucial step toward recognising and addressing the unique challenges faced by women experiencing homelessness. Emmanuel House urges local organisations, professionals, and community members to engage with this initiative. Together, we can ensure that no woman is left unseen, unheard, or unsupported – and help build a city where everyone has access to safety, dignity, and hope.
