Hidden scale of women 'sleeping rough' in Hertfordshire revealed
A new study has found that far more women are experiencing rough sleeping in Hertfordshire than previously recorded, with many staying in hidden or unsafe locations
A new survey has uncovered that at least 51 women in Hertfordshire reported sleeping rough in the three months leading up to last September, far exceeding previous official estimates.
Government data from 2023 suggested that only nine women were sleeping rough in the county. However, a local study conducted by Hertfordshire officials as part of the ‘Women’s Rough Sleeping Census 2024’ has painted a much broader picture of the issue. The survey also found that homelessness services across the county had identified 107 women who had experienced rough sleeping in the same period.
Annette Miles, the county council’s project lead for the census, said the findings were significant.
“Anecdotally we knew the figure was going to be higher. We were shocked that it was as high as it was,” she said.
The study highlights how women’s experiences of rough sleeping often differ from men’s. Many women do not sleep in visible locations such as doorways or parks. Instead, they stay in places such as A&E waiting rooms, public spaces, or walk around all night. Some reported sleeping in cars, on the streets, or even in bins.
“We heard experiences of women staying in A&E waiting rooms, sleeping indoors in public spaces or walking around all night,” said Annette Miles. “Some women reported sleeping in cars or on the streets. Someone said they had slept in a bin. It was quite strong and shocking.”
The survey found that of the 25 women who provided further details, 16 had slept rough for fewer than 30 nights in the previous three months, while eight had done so for longer. Eleven had slept on the street, and 11 had used other outdoor locations such as cars, garages, tents, bus shelters, or bins. Some had slept in public indoor spaces such as stairwells, transport stations, or fast food outlets.
The report also highlights the risks faced by homeless women, including exploitation and violence. It calls for gender-informed approaches to homelessness support, early intervention for those at risk, and an increase in safe single-gender accommodation options. The report also recommends improving links between domestic abuse, health, and drug and alcohol services to provide better support for women experiencing homelessness.
The census, carried out between September 23 and 29 last year, recognises that traditional rough sleeping counts often fail to capture women’s experiences. Unlike other surveys, it acknowledges that rough sleeping can involve staying on the move, riding public transport, or spending nights in unsafe temporary locations.
Officials hope that the findings will lead to a better understanding of women’s homelessness and prompt action to provide more targeted support.