Join Us for the LIVE Launch of the Westminster VAWG Housing First Podcast: “From Harm to Home” on 25th March
Minister Rushanara Ali to Share Special Video Message at Groundbreaking Virtual Event.
London, [21st March] – We are thrilled to announce the live launch of the Westminster Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Housing First Podcast: From Harm to Home, a groundbreaking virtual event that will bring together key stakeholders, experts, and advocates to discuss the critical importance of a gender-responsive approach to Housing First or women affected by homelessness and violence.
This special virtual event, taking place on Tuesday, 25th March, 10:00-11:30 am, will feature a powerful lineup of speakers, including a special video message from Rushanara Ali MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Minister for Homelessness and Democracy). Minister Ali will share the government’s perspective on tackling homelessness and supporting women facing multiple disadvantages, highlighting the vital role of initiatives like the Westminster VAWG Housing First project.
The event will showcase key insights from the 5th Year Evaluation of the Westminster VAWG Housing First project, which provides safe, stable housing for women affected by long-term homelessness and violence against women and girls. Attendees will also enjoy:
- Panel discussions with key stakeholders on the importance of a gender-responsive approach to Housing First.
- The live launch of the brand-new podcast From Harm to Home.
- A live screening of a short film offering a behind-the-scenes look at the project’s impact.
- Expert interviews, personal stories, case studies and critical analysis of the challenges, successes, and lessons learned.
- An audience Q&A with the panel, offering a chance to engage directly with experts and advocates.
Emma Storey, Executive Director of Housing at Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse, said:
“Safe and stable housing is a cornerstone of recovery for women experiencing domestic abuse and homelessness. The Westminster VAWG Housing First project has been transformative in providing not just a roof, but a foundation for rebuilding lives. This event is a vital opportunity to celebrate its impact and push for further change.”
This event is made possible with the support of our incredible partners, including Westminster City Council Housing Needs Department, which commissioned the service, alongside Solace Women’s Aid and dedicated housing providers.
Nahar Choudhury, Chief Executive of Solace, said:"Violence and abuse are near universal experiences for women experiencing homelessness. Our Housing First VAWG service in Westminster has changed the lives of women and given them a safe place to live to recover free from abuse. It is a great example of the support women can receive when organisations and councils work together."
Councillor Sara Hassan, Women and Girls’ Champion, Westminster City Council, said:
"Every woman deserves a safe and stable home. The Westminster VAWG Housing First project, is a testament to the power of a gender-responsive approach - one that not only provides housing but helps women rebuild their lives.
This event is a crucial step in amplifying the voices of women affected by homelessness and abuse, and I am proud to support this cause. A huge thank you to our partners - Solace Women’s Aid, Standing Together, and our housing providers - whose collaboration makes this vital work possible.”
Whether you are a policymaker, frontline worker, advocate, or simply passionate about housing justice and women’s rights, this event is an unmissable opportunity to gain deep insights, network with like-minded professionals, and be part of the conversation driving real change.
We have over 300 people joining us - reserve your spot now!
Date: Tuesday, 25th March
Time: 10:00-11:30 am
Location: Virtual Event
Don’t miss this chance to be part of a transformative discussion. Together, we can move From Harm to Home.