Action Foundation is part of the newly launched North East Women’s Homelessness Alliance whose mission it is to end women’s homelessness in our region for good. Research shows that women experience homelessness differently to men and refugee women face even more barriers to support. Here, our Accommodation Support Workers Manager, Rachel Stafford, explains why many women seeking sanctuary in the UK suffer ‘hidden homelessness,’ finding themselves trapped in abusive relationships or at risk of sexual exploitation or trafficking.
In recent years, the plight of women who have no recourse to public funds (NRPF) has become a critical issue that demands urgent attention, writes Rachel Stafford. These women, often asylum seekers, refugees, or undocumented migrants, find themselves in an exceptionally vulnerable position, particularly when their asylum claims are refused and they face destitution. Without access to public funds, they are left without the safety net of government assistance, creating a perfect storm of poverty, homelessness and, in many cases, exposure to violence and exploitation. This is a situation that calls for immediate intervention, support and compassionate policy change. Action Foundation has joined the recently launched North East Women’s Homelessness Alliance whose mission it is to end women’s homelessness in our region for good.
Understanding NRPF and its impact on women
‘No recourse to public funds’ or ‘NRPF’ is a legal condition imposed on individuals who are subject to immigration control in the UK. This means they cannot access welfare benefits such as housing assistance, income support, or universal credit. While the policy aims to control immigration and deter unfounded asylum claims, its impact on vulnerable women is profound and often catastrophic.
Women who have fled violence, persecution, or other traumatic circumstances in their home countries and arrive in the UK seeking asylum, often carry deep psychological scars. When their asylum claims are refused, they are left in limbo. Unable to return home due to fear of harm and unable to access public support, they face the grim reality of life on the streets or in unsafe living conditions. For these women, the risk of sexual violence, human trafficking, and exploitation is alarmingly high. Many suffer in silence, caught in a cycle of poverty and abuse, with little hope of escape.
Destitution
Destitution is the harsh reality for many women who have been refused asylum and are barred from accessing public funds. Without money or stable accommodation, these women are forced to rely on the goodwill of strangers, charities, or, in the worst cases, remain with abusive partners or employers simply to have a roof over their heads. The lack of stable housing is not just a matter of physical safety, it profoundly impacts their mental health and overall wellbeing.
Why accommodation is crucial
Providing accommodation to women with NRPF status, particularly those who have been refused asylum, is not just a matter of compassion, it is a necessity. Housing is the foundation upon which these women can begin to rebuild their lives. It offers them a safe space where they can start to heal from trauma, seek legal advice to challenge their asylum decisions and access essential services such as healthcare and education for their children.
The reality of homelessness for women with legal status
Gaining legal status through a family reunion visa or a successful asylum claim should be a moment of relief and hope, but for many women it is just the beginning of another set of challenges. Homelessness among women in these situations is a growing concern, often overlooked in public discourse. Despite having the right to remain in the UK, these women face significant barriers that can lead to housing instability and destitution.
For example, women who reunite with family members may find themselves in overcrowded or unsuitable housing. In some cases, the family dynamics can become strained, leading to conflict, domestic abuse or even abandonment. When these women are forced to leave their homes, they may not have the financial resources, language skills, or knowledge of the UK system to secure alternative accommodation.
Additionally, women who have recently been granted asylum often face challenges in transitioning from asylum support to mainstream benefits and housing. The delay in receiving benefits, coupled with the limited availability of affordable housing, can lead to periods of homelessness or reliance on temporary accommodation such as shelters, which may not be suitable for women with children or those with specific health needs.
Ensuring that these women have access to safe and secure housing, financial support and the services they need to rebuild their lives is not only about social justice, it’s about human dignity. By providing the right support, we can help these women move from vulnerability to stability and ensure they have the opportunity to thrive in their new home.
Women’s Rough Sleeping Census
At the North East Women’s Homelessness Alliance we learnt about Shelter North East‘s plans for the first Women’s Rough Sleeping Census in Newcastle this September which they are piloting in conjunction with Newcastle City Council. For the first time we will be part of a week-long national snapshot, between 22-28 September and it will look at street homelessness, temporary accommodation, sofa surfing and unsafe or exploitative housing. You can email Shelter North East to find out more and support the Newcastle pilot.
