Stratford-on-Avon District Council has invested in new, high-quality accommodation designed specifically to support women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, reinforcing its commitment to providing safe, secure housing options for those most in need.

The scheme will deliver a dedicated, women-only facility offering self-contained accommodation with ensuite bathrooms and kitchenettes. 

This targeted provision responds to a clear and growing need within the District. In the most recent financial year (2025/26), the District Council recorded 1,075 homelessness approaches, including 688 from single households. Of these, 283 were from women, representing around 41% of all single applicants. During the same period, 73 single female households required accommodation, with 14 currently in temporary accommodation. 

The new scheme has been developed to help address this demand, offering a supportive stepping stone between crisis accommodation and fully independent living. By providing self-contained units alongside tailored support, it will enable residents to maintain their independence while accessing help to sustain their tenancies, improve wellbeing and move forward positively.

Cllr Liz Coles, Portfolio Holder for Housing, Revenues and Customer Services, said: "This investment demonstrates our commitment to tackling homelessness and ensuring that everyone in our District has access to safe and suitable accommodation.

"We know that a significant proportion of people who come to us for help are women, and that there is a gap in provision for those who need a secure, self-contained space and we know that some women feel safer in women only spaces. This scheme provides exactly that, a safe, supportive environment where women can regain stability and independence. It is about giving people the foundation they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and confidence."

The provision forms part of the District Council's wider approach to preventing and reducing homelessness, which includes early intervention, tailored housing advice, and partnership working with support organisations across the District. 

By investing in this specialist accommodation, the District Council is strengthening its housing offer and ensuring that vulnerable residents, particularly women, have access to services that meet their needs and circumstances. 

The scheme also reflects the District Council's corporate priority to support communities and protect the most vulnerable, creating lasting positive outcomes for individuals while reducing pressure on temporary accommodation.

If you are homeless or worried about losing your home

Stratford-on-Avon District Council provides advice and support to residents who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. If you are at risk of losing your accommodation within the next 56 days, have nowhere safe to stay, are experiencing domestic abuse, have been asked to leave by family or friends, or are facing other housing difficulties, help may be available. Homelessness | Stratford-on-Avon District Council

For advice and assistance, contact the Council's Housing Advice and Homelessness Service:

• Telephone: 01789 260126 or 01789 267575
• Email: homeless@stratford-dc.gov.uk
• Visit: Elizabeth House, Church Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6HX
• Out of hours emergency homelessness service: 01789 267575 (select Option 3)

Further information is available at: Homelessness & Threatened With Homelessness | Stratford-on-Avon District Council