The women’s census, which we conducted last year, along with partners from St. Mungo’s, Nelson Trust, Bristol City Council, and more, showed that there are hundreds of women sleeping rough in Bristol at any given time. Of the women we worked with last year, 95% had experienced homelessness. It is not a situation anyone would want to end up in and for women it is particularly dangerous. When there are already dangers like the risk of male-violence or exploitation, adverse and extreme weather makes the situation unbelievably worse. So we are thrilled to be able to offer this provision to the women we know, support and deeply care for, as well as other women, desperately in need of a safe bed in Bristol.
Throughout the first week of January, SWEP was activated due to bitterly cold weather conditions. Volunteers and staff alike were on hand to put up the beds, making them cosy and comfy. On every bed lay a handmade knitted hat and pair of gloves from a gifted supporter, alongside a small bag of toiletries – a quiet welcome for the woman who would rest there that night.
Over the four nights of SWEP, 5 women stayed with us, some of whom are currently street sex-working and use our services and one woman who, after accessing the van was brought to our hub for the night.
On the first night, one woman arrived, made her bed and space comfy and snug, unpacked her things pulling out 3 big books on astrology! They had hot showers, could wash their clothes, have a warm, nourishing meal, and know that for the hours they were there, they were safe. One woman said:
‘[it] was really nice, felt homely and warm… I felt safe’.
The volunteers were amazing – as ever – dedicating their time and care to make sure the women were welcomed and had everything they needed and we are so grateful to them.
We are so proud that we can offer this emergency response to women on the streets at a time they need it most.
Help us remain a lifeline for women on the streets in Bristol and donate today!
