A new service offering safe housing and tailored support for women facing homelessness and unmet needs has officially launched in York.
The national charity Changing Lives has announced the opening of York Women’s Accommodation, a new initiative designed to provide semi-supported housing for women over 18.
The accommodation is made up of two properties, one with three bedrooms and another with six, offering safe, stable environments for women.
While the accommodation is not staffed 24/7, residents benefit from a floating support model that provides flexible, personalised assistance linked closely with the Changing Lives York Women’s Wellness Centre.
The service offers:
- Safe accommodation designed to support women’s recovery and independence
- One-to-one personalised support
- Help with budgeting, benefits, and building essential living skills
- Access to primary healthcare and pathways into education, social integration, and move-on housing
- Group work opportunities through the York Women’s Centre
- Referrals and links to partner agencies
Referrals for York Women’s Accommodation can be made through City of York Council’s Single Access Point (SAP) or via Yorkshire and Humber Probation Service, with whom Changing Lives is proud to be working in partnership.
Leanne Harper, senior service manager at Changing Lives, said: “This new service is a much-welcome addition to what we offer in York, providing women who would otherwise have limited options with a safe, trauma-informed place where they can be supported to grow and build their confidence and resilience.
“Our aim is to help women prepare for their own tenancies, with a focus on their needs and priorities, supporting them to move forward with strength and stability.”
York Women’s Accommodation is part of Changing Lives’ ongoing commitment to ensuring that homelessness is rare, brief, and non-recurring. The charity aims to give people the chance to create brighter, more secure futures.