When people picture a homeless person, they often imagine a man sleeping rough. But homelessness affects women too — in ways that are often invisible and uniquely dangerous. At Seaside CIC, we recognise the specific needs of women experiencing homelessness in Brighton.
How Women Become Homeless
The most common cause of homelessness for women is domestic abuse. Women fleeing a violent partner often leave their home with nothing — and without refuge or family support, they can quickly end up without anywhere safe to go. Other pathways include relationship breakdown, leaving care, mental health crisis, and leaving prison.
Why Women’s Homelessness is Hidden
Women are far less likely than men to sleep rough — the streets are simply too dangerous. Instead, women are more likely to sofa surf, moving between friends and family or staying with exploitative partners in exchange for a roof. This hidden homelessness means women are often not counted in statistics and may not access support.
The Risk of Exploitation
Women experiencing homelessness are at significant risk of exploitation, including survival sex and trafficking. Abusers often target homeless women, offering housing in exchange for compliance. This makes accessible, trauma-informed support essential.
How Seaside CIC Supports Women
At Seaside CIC, our trauma-informed approach recognises the particular vulnerabilities women face and provides a safe environment to rebuild lives. If you are a woman in Brighton who is homeless or at risk, please reach out — we are here to help.
