Women in need: urgent housing needed for those affected by violence in Kevelaer!

Women in need: urgent housing needed for those affected by violence in Kevelaer!

The housing situation for women in emergency situations is becoming increasingly threatening. Particularly affected are women who suffer from domestic violence and those who are looking for a place to live after separation or due to their own needs. In a recent meeting between the equal opportunities officer for the city of Kevelaer, Christiane Peulen, and employees of the Social Service for Catholic Women (SkF), the pressing needs for safe housing were impressively discussed. Nicole Zigan and Verena Pichmann from the women's advice center as well as Katrin Geraths, who leads the “Finally a Home” project, were also present. They reported an ever-growing need for sheltered housing for women who have to flee violent circumstances. And this is exactly where there is often a problem: many people cannot afford these emergency accommodations.

“Without affordable housing, many women find themselves in existential distress,” explains Zigan, drawing attention to a dramatic situation. The SkF has therefore launched a call for landlords in the Kevelaer region to provide living space. The commitment in the placement process is there: The SkF offers support for both renters and women seeking help. Fortunately, your project “Finally a Home” is being supported by funds from the European Social Fund (ESF) and the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Increasing demand with limited supply

A current look at the living situation shows: The “Hopes” transitional home in Kevelaer only has six apartments. Verena Pichmann emphasizes: “It’s a start – but by no means enough.” This highlights the gap between increasing demand and limited supply in the region. To address this need, the SkF invites you to a picnic in the brine garden on June 25, 2025. The aim is to answer questions and present the various support offers.

The urgency of the issue is not only reflected in the regional initiatives. At the national level, the Frauenhauskoordination e.V. (FHK) sees an acute need for action. Particularly on the occasion of World Homeless Day in October 2024, the FHK together with the Federal Association for Homeless Aid (BAG W) called for better protection for homeless women affected by violence. The current situation highlights serious gaps in the protection offered to these women, which further underlines the urgency of social support and the creation of housing.

Expand protection and financial support

A key problem is access to housing - especially for women who live in women's shelters. These are often occupied because finding a permanent apartment is becoming increasingly difficult, despite the possibility of receiving support with a housing entitlement certificate (WBS). The regular stock of social housing is often not sufficient to cover demand. In addition, in many federal states there is the possibility for women and children from women's shelters to have easier access to social housing. This also requires greater investment in social housing.

According to the FHK, the lack of safe housing is a key obstacle that prevents many women from escaping violent relationships. The demand for a federal legal right to protection and assistance in the event of violence, while at the same time fulfilling the requirements of the Istanbul Convention, is therefore increasingly becoming the focus of the debate.

The situation in Cologne and the surrounding area is therefore a reflection of a larger problem that requires a collective response. Across all levels – from regional initiatives to nationwide demands – there is a clear call to help the women affected and to take appropriate action.

Interested landlords can reach Katrin Geraths on 02832 9748481 or by email (k.geraths@skf-kleve.de). Women seeking help can contact Nicole Zigan on 02832 9763565 or by email (n.zigan@skf-kleve.de).

For further information on the subject of housing protection and the necessary measures, the relevant reports can be found on Kevelaerer Blatt, Frauenhauskoordinierung and BMWSB can be consulted.