[Space for women in homelessness: exploratory study from a gender lens]

To explore women's perceptions and their improvement proposals of a Women's Space for women experiencing homelessness, from a gender perspective.

Between November 2023 and December 2024, an exploratory qualitative study was conducted using a phenomenological approach. The sample included eight cis women of Women's Space within a center for people experiencing homelessness in Barcelona. Data was collected through two triangular groups and three individual interviews conducted in Spanish and English. Thematic analysis combined deductive and inductive approaches, based on script structure, categorization, and triangulation.

Women's perceptions and proposals were grouped into four categories: 1) reasons for attending, 2) organizational and physical structure, 3) services and activities, and 4) interpersonal relationships among participants, volunteers, and staff. Attendance was primarily motivated by the female-only environment, and the fulfilment health needs for hygiene, rest, food, safety and social connection, and belonging. Participants valued the respectful and supportive atmosphere and suggested extending the duration of the sessions, improving hygiene and food services, and diversifying activities. Interpersonal relationships among women, volunteers, and staff were highly valued.

Women reported that Women's Space addressed essential health and social needs in a safe environment. These results could be transferred to other women-only spaces with similar sociodemographic characteristics. This study expands the literature on female homelessness and the integration of a gender perspective into care services.