Homeless women are single mothers, battered women, widows, abused women and women surviving the streets that cannot find, have not accepted or have been refused their place in the society. This qualitative research explores the experiences of homeless women in Delhi and their interface with state and civil society organizations. Through interviews and observations, the researcher has attempted to study the challenges faced by homeless women in accessing essential services such as shelter, healthcare, and clean water, and how state and civil society organizations respond to these challenges. The study also explores the ways in which homeless women develop coping strategies to navigate their difficult circumstances. Findings suggest that homeless women’s realities and aspirations vary greatly. Some women seek freedom, some wish for financial independence and some want safety & social security. The findings also highlight that while the state is providing essential resources like food, water, and a roof, they frequently fall short of acknowledging & addressing the specific needs of homeless women, who are disproportionately impacted by social exclusion, poverty, and violence. The study concludes by highlighting the importance of taking a gender-sensitive approach to homelessness policy and providing more comprehensive support for homeless women.

Authors:
Divya Singh Chauhan, University College London, United Kingdom

About the Presenter(s)
Divya Singh Chauhan is a lawyer and a feminist social worker. Her research & advocacy work focuses on labour rights, women's rights and policy reform. Currently, she is pursuing a Master's in Law (Social Justice) at University College London.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/divya-singh-chauhan-b89340118

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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