Major scheme launched to support York women in need
Aimed at supporting women experiencing homelessness and complex challenges, the service was launched in York by the charity Changing Lives and recently visited by deputy mayor for policing, fire and crime, Jo Coles.
The scheme targets women facing issues such as exploitation, domestic abuse and involvement in the criminal justice system.
Jo Coles, deputy mayor for policing, fire and crime, said: "We know that some women who face homelessness can remain living with perpetrators of abuse to keep a roof over their heads and that women in unstable housing are at a greater risk of offending.
"Both Mayor David Skaith and I are committed to halving violence against women and girls in York and North Yorkshire and ensuring we support women locally to help to meet the Government's mission.
"Ensuring vulnerable women have a safe place to live is essential and this pilot project will contribute towards that aim, supporting women facing homelessness in York to access safe and secure housing.
"This pilot scheme will help us to better understand the level of need for this type of accommodation here in York and North Yorkshire and shape what we do in the future.
"I look forward to hearing how the project progresses."
The scheme, called York Women's Accommodation, has been jointly funded by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority and HM Prison & Probation Service, with each contributing £25,000 to support a 12-month pilot.
The service offers nine units of supported accommodation in two properties, with on-site staff and access to tailored support through the York Women's Centre.
Elaine Colleran, senior area contract manager at HM Prison & Probation Service, said: "We recognise that women experiencing homelessness often face multiple and complex challenges, including trauma, exploitation, and contact with the criminal justice system.
"Providing safe, gender-informed accommodation is a critical step in helping women to stabilise their lives, reduce their risk of reoffending, and access the support they need to move forward."
Referrals to the service can be made by any agency, including the Probation Service, North Yorkshire Police, City of York Council, or through self-referral.
Faye Sunter, director of development at Changing Lives, said: "We are very excited to begin accepting referrals for our new women's only accommodation service in York.
"The women will receive individual support from our dedicated housing management and support workers in a safe and trauma informed environment allowing them to make positive change and be empowered to move on successfully."
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