The Women's Residence at Blackfriars Street: A New Chapter

On February 1, 2020, St. Stephen's House of London opened the doors of 25 Blackfriars Street to its first female residents. This moment represented a transformative expansion of our mission — and a new chapter in London's recovery community.

In 2018, St. Stephen's House received a substantial inheritance that made the purchase of the Blackfriars property possible. What followed was a year and a half of renovations and countless volunteer hours to create a welcoming, safe space for women in recovery.

The women's residence accommodates 9 residents in a home-like environment, mirroring the model that has proven successful at the Gower Street men's home for decades. Located in Northwest London, it provides close proximity to many 12-step groups — an essential component of our recovery program.

"Addiction doesn't discriminate, and neither should recovery services," says Val Wootton, Women's House Manager. "We're proud to offer women in London the same long-term, community-based support that has changed so many men's lives."

The women's program includes the same pillars as the men's: mandatory 12-step groups, life skills training, relapse prevention sessions, and a family-oriented care approach. There is no fixed departure date — residents stay until they are ready.