The experience of domestic abuse is ‘near universal’ for women who become homeless. Yet, women who are fleeing domestic abuse are too often let down by support systems there to support them. Women need a place to rebuild their lives. Traditional, mixed-gender hostels often aren’t the right environment for this. That’s why we have five dedicated women’s-only services. For Plum, this made all the difference in helping her journey to independence. In over a year, Plum has gone from rough sleeping to studying for her dream career—setting up a nursery.
“People who experience homelessness do so for different reasons. It depends on how you got there; for some people, it’s harder to get out of than others. But for women, other things are attached to being homeless. We are strong as we are. But with a support system like the Single Homeless Project, we can push for more. When women help each other, we can overcome experiences like homelessness.
“When I first came here, it took me a while to settle in. I was running from domestic abuse and trying to deal with my housing situation at the same time. I thought I would have to handle everything myself. In the past, I have been let down or sent in the wrong direction when seeking support.
“But the staff took their time with me, and we built an understanding. Because I’d been dealing with things alone for so long, I didn’t know how to use the help at first. I had my ups and downs, but they were always there to support me. Here, you also have the support of other women around you who have been homeless and experienced similar things. By sharing our journeys, we can understand how things work. It would be much harder if that help weren’t in place.”
A lifeline in crisis
When Plum first arrived at Single Homeless Project, she had been rough sleeping and had experienced a lot of trauma with her family.
“I wouldn’t wish rough sleeping on anyone. It’s cold. Finding somewhere to sleep is hard. If lucky, I’d get to sofa surf with friends—I had to move around a lot. If parks weren’t gated, I’d try to sleep there. But living and sleeping outside and trying to hustle is hard. When I see people who are homeless now, I feel for them. I’ve been there. It’s very tough.”
If I didn’t have Single Homeless Project, I don’t know where I would be. I was rough sleeping before, and I do not know where I’d be without them. They helped me understand where to go and how to deal with things; it was a huge help.
Transforming trauma into triumph
Plum has made amazing progress. Although she has faced many challenges, she is determined to reach her goals.
“I’ve always known what I wanted to do in my life. I’ve had a lot of barriers facing me, and because of previous trauma, I have issues with connections and trust. I had to teach myself that love can come from anywhere, and it needs to start from within.
“From where I came from to where I am today, I’ve seen a big change in myself. Now, things are looking different for me. I recently took a paediatric first aid course and want to take a Childcare Management Level 3 course and get my neonatal course degree. Ultimately, I want to open a nursery. That’s what I see for myself. Single Homeless Project is helping me achieve my goal.
“We need more women’s services like where I’m staying. I didn’t know places like this existed. We need more of them. I didn’t think this place would help me when I came here. But they helped me with everything. I’m ready for the next chapter in my life.”
We’re proud of you, Plum!
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