Examined the characteristics, presenting problems and psychiatric diagnoses of female homeless patients of a community psychiatric service in inner London. Data for 169 female patients were compared with that for 146 male homeless patients. Results of assessment at referral indicate that female homeless clients were significantly higher in mood-related problems, while males tended to have psychotic experiences or anxiety. Diagnoses for females showed a higher proportion of affective and personality disorders, while male homeless clients had a higher proportion of schizophrenia diagnoses.