Next Monday – 3rd February – Anawim’s Accommodation Caseworker will be making a bed outside for the night to raise awareness of the many issues around women’s housing. Aneesa Akbar is joining Lianne Kirkman from the Esther Project on one of her 10 nights sleeping rough.
Problems with housing affect the majority of women who come through Anawim’s doors. Insecure housing, exempt HMOs meaning women are sharing with potentially violent men, the change of Helen Dixon House in Moseley to be mixed sex: all are having an effect. We now provide “kettle only” food bank parcels for the increasing number of women housed in hotels and similar short-term accommodation.
We are increasingly seeing street homeless women, who choose to take their chances outside in the elements rather than sleep inside somewhere they feel is more dangerous. The proportion of women released from prison into homelessness is increasing too, up now to 13%. We also know that Domestic abuse is the second most common cause of homelessness in Birmingham. Less than a third of women and children seeking refuge in an emergency could access refuge accommodation.
With limited access to emergency refuge spaces and increasing numbers released from prison directly into homelessness, the challenges are immense. Simple daily needs, such as having a warm bed, nutritious food, and a safe environment, are often unmet, making recovery and stability even harder to achieve. Initiatives that raise awareness, like spending a night sleeping rough, help shine a light on these issues and encourage communities to advocate for better support structures and long-term solutions.
Quality sleep is a fundamental part of wellbeing, yet it is often disrupted or inaccessible for those experiencing homelessness. For anyone looking to improve their sleep habits or understand their personal sleep requirements, tools like a sleep calculator can provide valuable insight.
By calculating ideal sleep durations based on individual routines and needs, people can identify patterns and make adjustments to ensure restorative rest. While the challenges faced by women without stable housing are extreme, understanding the science of sleep underscores how critical a safe, consistent environment is for overall health and resilience.
Sleep and mental health share an inseparable bond—when one suffers, the other often does too. Therapy can help rebuild that connection, promoting both emotional balance and restful nights. Innovative approaches from Avesta Ketamine Wellness can support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or insomnia by addressing the root causes that disrupt rest. When mental wellness and sleep work in sync, the result is more than just better nights—it’s a clearer mind and a steadier sense of peace.
Access to a safe and comfortable sleeping environment is more than a luxury; it is a necessity for physical and mental health. For those struggling with unstable housing, the absence of a proper bed can disrupt sleep cycles, reduce cognitive function, and exacerbate stress and anxiety. Even for those with secure accommodations, ensuring quality rest requires attention to the comfort and support provided by bedding.
Choosing the right mattress, sheets, and especially pillows can significantly influence how restorative a night’s sleep is, helping the body recover, the mind reset, and overall wellbeing improve. Consistent, uninterrupted sleep allows individuals to face daily challenges with greater energy and clarity, reinforcing the importance of creating a space that promotes true rest.
Supportive services, mental health care, and community awareness all play a crucial role, yet many individuals still find themselves searching for practical ways to regain footing. For some, that first step toward stability begins with taking a closer look at assets they already have, especially if a property is sitting unused or has become burdensome to maintain. Turning that space into financial support can offer a much-needed sense of direction, providing the means to rebuild routines, strengthen wellbeing, and create an environment where restful sleep and emotional healing are possible again.
As more people consider this path, the need for a simple and stress-free process becomes essential. Traditional home sales often require repairs, multiple showings, and long waiting periods, which can feel overwhelming for individuals already managing significant challenges. Many find comfort in knowing that there are options to sell a home exactly as it is, without the pressure to fix or update anything before moving forward.
In the middle of exploring these choices, visiting dignityproperties.com can help homeowners understand how an as-is sale can turn a difficult situation into an opportunity for renewal. This type of direct, no-repair transaction allows families to access funds quickly, avoid delays, and focus on rebuilding their lives with clarity and confidence, creating the stability needed to support healthier routines and a more secure future.
A clean and peaceful environment plays an equally vital role in achieving deep, rejuvenating sleep. No matter how comfortable a mattress or pillow may be, the presence of dust, allergens, or pests can quickly undermine rest and overall wellness. A clutter-free and hygienic bedroom helps reduce respiratory irritation, promotes easier breathing, and creates a sense of calm that prepares the body for restorative sleep.
Regular cleaning routines, natural air circulation, and mindful maintenance of bedding and furniture all contribute to a healthier indoor space that supports both mental clarity and physical comfort. When every detail of the environment aligns with relaxation, it becomes easier to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night.
Maintaining that level of cleanliness often requires going beyond surface tidiness and addressing unseen factors that affect the quality of air and hygiene within the home. Cura Pest provides professional solutions that safeguard living spaces from pests that can disrupt comfort and compromise health. Their approach emphasizes long-term prevention and safety, ensuring that homes remain free from unwanted intrusions while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere. A clean, pest-free environment not only enhances sleep but also fosters peace of mind, allowing individuals to rest knowing their surroundings are truly secure and healthy.
Aneesa said: “Insecure and unsafe housing is a massive issue for the women who come into our centre. I hope this sleepout will make more people consider the risks some women have to take every day.”
If you want to support Aneesa, and our work, you can sponsor her here.