Abstract
The role of women in female-headed households (FHHs) constitutes challenging responsibilities, including enduring the expectations of being a caregiver, a provider, a supporter, and protector to their households. Female-headed households lack housing stability due to the untenable interrelated social and economic circumstances, which perpetuate the cycle of poverty. The challenge of inadequate housing for FHHs is compounded by intersectional vulnerabilities that limit their access to quality housing and associated rights such as water and sanitation to mention a few. Although there is growing research on FHHs in social work, very few studies in social work have focused on how this demographic population’s well-being is impacted by housing. This study aimed to investigate the housing experiences of FHHs in Alexandra’s informal settlement, a low-income community in Johannesburg, South Africa. A qualitative approach and exploratory descriptive research design were utilised in this study. Eight female household heads were interviewed using one-on-one semi-structured interviews and data was analysed through the ecological systems theoretical framework. Findings revealed that for FHHs, housing represents a sentimental space that is linked to their survival, dignity and self-worth, surpassing its mere physical structure. Female-headed households further derive empowerment from home ownership and despite living in inadequate living environment, their housing promotes their psychosocial and economic well-being. The study recommends prioritising future research into community-based support systems and innovative digital strategies to improve the housing conditions and expand economic opportunities for vulnerable populations in South Africa, particularly addressing the complex well-being challenges faced by FHHs.