Understanding Women’s Need for Safe Space: Evaluation of The Sanctuary at the Marylebone Project

Project Director: Emma Bimpson
Project Duration: 2023

The Sanctuary, based at The Marylebone Project in Westminster aims to support women experiencing homelessness by providing space to access advice on housing, education and training and participate in meaningful activities to promote wellbeing. It offers a safe space for women to access at any time, day or night, and whatever their circumstances. As well as advice and support, The Sanctuary provides practical facilities including a clothing store, laundry, showers and a food bank.

This study will seek to understand how the service is used, how it serves its community, assess the challenges faced delivering a 24 hour service, and seek opportunities to tailor future services to the community’s needs. The research team will carry out detailed engagement with women who have used The Sanctuary, staff teams and other key stakeholder in Westminster.