London offers numerous support services specifically designed to help women navigate various challenges, from employment and housing to personal safety and mental health.
This quick guide outlines the key women’s support organizations in London, along with practical information about accessing their services.
Whether you’re moving to London or seeking assistance within the city, these resources provide essential support for women of all backgrounds.
Emergency Contacts and Crisis Support
- Women’s Aid Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (24/7)
- Rape Crisis London: 0808 802 9999 (Daily, 12pm-2:30pm & 7pm-9:30pm)
- Solace Women’s Aid: 0808 802 5565 (Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm)
Housing Support Services
Women’s Pioneer Housing (020 8749 7112) specializes in providing affordable housing solutions for single women in London.
- Shelter for Women: 0808 800 4444 – Housing advice and emergency accommodation
- St Mungo’s Women’s Services: 020 7902 7000 – Temporary housing and recovery support
- Homeless Link: Online directory of women-specific housing services
Employment and Career Support
The Women Like Us organization (020 7633 4444) offers career coaching and flexible job opportunities.
- Smart Works: Professional clothing and interview preparation
- Code First Girls: Free coding courses for women
- Women in Business Network: Professional networking events
Health and Wellbeing Services
| Service | Contact | Support Type |
|---|---|---|
| Women’s Health Clinic | 0345 300 8090 | General health services |
| Mind in London | 020 8519 2122 | Mental health support |
| Women’s Therapy Centre | 020 7263 7860 | Counseling services |
Legal Support and Advice
- Rights of Women: 020 7251 6577 – Free legal advice
- Women’s Legal Centre: 020 7242 1222 – Family law specialists
- Law Centres Network: Local free legal support
Community and Social Groups
London hosts numerous women’s social groups that provide support networks and friendship opportunities.
- Women’s Institute London: Local branches across the city
- Meetup.com Women’s Groups: Various social and professional groups
- GirlCrew London: Social networking platform for women
Resources for New Arrivals
The Migrants Resource Centre (020 7834 2505) offers specific support for women new to London.
- Immigration advice
- Language classes
- Cultural integration support
- Employment guidance
Getting Started with Support Services
Contact your local council’s women’s services coordinator for a personalized support plan.
Keep important numbers saved in your phone and consider downloading personal safety apps like Circle of 6 or Hollie Guard.
Register with a local GP and women’s health clinic as soon as possible after moving to London.
Financial Support and Resources
- Women’s Enterprise Hub: 020 7566 8650 – Business funding advice
- Financial Wellness Centre: Free money management workshops
- Credit Union Network: Women-focused savings and loans
Educational Opportunities
Several institutions offer women-specific scholarships and training programs:
- London Learning Consortium: Professional development courses
- Women’s Education Partnership: Adult education support
- Digital Skills Academy: Tech training for women returners
Safety and Personal Security
Self-Defense Classes
- Women’s Self Defense London: Weekly classes across boroughs
- Safe Sisters Network: Personal safety workshops
- Transport Safety Groups: Evening travel buddy systems
Moving Forward: Your Support Network in London
Remember that support services are continuously evolving to meet women’s needs in London. Many organizations offer flexible access options, including online support, telephone consultations, and in-person meetings.
Keep this guide handy and don’t hesitate to reach out to multiple services – they often work together to provide comprehensive support. Your wellbeing and success in London matter, and these services are here to help you thrive.
- Save emergency numbers in your phone
- Join local women’s groups on social media
- Connect with your borough’s women’s officer
- Attend community events to build your network
FAQs
- What are the main women’s shelters and support centers in London?
Solace Women’s Aid, Women’s Trust, Refuge, Hestia, and Ashiana Network are among London’s primary women’s support organizations providing emergency accommodation and services. - How can I access domestic violence support services when moving to London?
Contact the 24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline (0808 2000 247), visit your local council’s website, or reach out to Women’s Aid for immediate assistance and referrals. - What legal aid services are available for women in London?
Rights of Women, Law Centres Network, and Women’s Legal Centre provide free or low-cost legal advice for housing, immigration, family law, and domestic violence cases. - Are there women-only housing options in London?
Yes, organizations like Housing for Women and Women’s Pioneer Housing provide female-only accommodation across London boroughs. - What employment support services exist for women relocating to London?
Women Like Us, Smart Works, and the London Women’s Fund offer career guidance, interview preparation, and professional clothing for job seekers. - How can I find women’s health services when moving to London?
Register with a local GP through the NHS website, contact Women’s Health Clinics, or reach out to specialized services like My Body Back Project. - What cultural integration services are available for immigrant women?
Organizations like Migrants Resource Centre, Latin American Women’s Rights Service, and Asian Women’s Resource Centre provide cultural support and integration services. - Where can I find childcare support when relocating to London?
Contact your local council’s Family Information Service, visit the Childcare Choices website, or connect with organizations like Gingerbread for single parent support. - How do I access mental health support services for women in London?
Contact Women’s Therapy Centre, Maya Centre, or access NHS mental health services through your GP referral. - What financial advice services are available for women moving to London?
Money Advice Service, Women’s Financial Network, and local Citizens Advice Bureau offices provide free financial guidance.
