At least 84 women left with nowhere to stay in West Northamptonshire over three months, new census reveals

A census carried out between July and September 2026 identified women sleeping on the streets, staying in unsafe accommodation or relying on temporary arrangements with relatives, acquaintances and strangers.

Others spent nights in premises open around the clock, lived in unsuitable housing or were fleeing domestic abuse.

West Northamptonshire Council led the research alongside charities and support services to better understand the circumstances facing women without secure accommodation.

Women taking part completed detailed surveys about their experiences, with the findings identifying domestic abuse, sexual violence, trauma, poor mental health and involvement with the criminal justice system among the challenges they faced.

The council says the results will help shape future services and improve access to support for women at risk of homelessness.

Councillor Charlie Hastie, deputy leader of West Northamptonshire Council and cabinet member for housing and communities, said: "This important research provides valuable insight into the challenges faced by women experiencing rough sleeping and homelessness across our area."

He added: "The findings will help us and our partners better understand where support is needed most, helping to strengthen services and inform how we work together to prevent people from reaching crisis point."

The census involved the council's Rough Sleeping Outreach Team, Inspire's Women at Risk Recovery Workers and Outreach Team, Queen's Refuge, Bridge Gold Street Hub, C2C Social Action Women's Centre, adult social care, probation and other organisations.

Andrea Knowles, senior operations manager for Inspire, said: "This census has given a vital voice to women whose experiences of homelessness and rough sleeping are too often hidden."

She said the findings demonstrated the need for support tailored to women and informed by experiences of trauma, alongside closer working between organisations.

The research will feed into the council's Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy and its Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Strategy Action Plan.

Partners will examine ways to prevent homelessness, make services easier to access and provide more appropriate help for women facing insecure housing.

Organisations involved have also committed to working together on responses to the problems identified, with the aim of improving outcomes for women at risk across West Northamptonshire and supporting their longer-term safety and stability.