A Sunderland Labour Group councillor has welcomed plans for the city to take part in a pioneering census aimed at tackling hidden homelessness among women.
Councillor Kelly Chequer, Deputy Leader of Sunderland Labour Group and Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities Portfolio Holder at the council, has been a strong advocate for the initiative, which will see Sunderland participate in the Women’s Rough Sleeping Census. The census will provide a more accurate picture of women experiencing homelessness, many of whom are not captured in traditional rough sleeping counts.
As well as identifying women sleeping rough, the initiative will help uncover those who are homeless but less visible, including women staying in unsafe situations, sofa surfing, or avoiding services due to fear of harm or controlling behaviours.
It will also build a clearer understanding of the gendered nature of homelessness and the specific experiences women face.
Cllr Chequer, who is a ward councillor in Southwick, said: “Too often, women experiencing homelessness are hidden from view and miss out on the support they need.
“This census is a vital step in identifying those women – whether they are sleeping rough or living in unsafe and unstable conditions. By understanding their experiences, we can work with partners to design the right support and ensure women in Sunderland can access safe accommodation and the help they deserve to enable them to build a better, safer life.”
Findings from the census will be used by Sunderland City Council and its partners to develop targeted support and improve services for women at risk of homelessness. Without this work, many vulnerable women could remain hidden from services and unable to access the assistance they need.
Cllr Chequer added: “This is what Sunderland Labour Group stands for fairness and tackling the more complex issues that impact our society. We are committed to protecting the most vulnerable and supporting a fairer city in which everyone can realise their potential and thrive.”
The council is currently working with Shelter and neighbouring authorities to confirm details of how the census will be carried out locally.
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