Will you help 
us raise £50,000 to convert the space above our offices, creating two one-bedroom flats to address the urgent need for affordable accommodation for single people in our local community?
Creating affordable housing for single people in Omagh, Co Tyrone is more urgent than ever. Homelessness among singles has been on the rise, with many struggling to secure safe and affordable accommodation.
Currently, our SLATE project, which has been serving the community for over 20 years, has a waiting list of 14 people in desperate need of housing. This project has always been a lifeline, helping young people aged 16-25 transition to independent living. However, with demand consistently increasing, we urgently need to expand.
According to a November 2022 Freedom of Information request from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE), as of 30th June 2022, there were 725 households in need of accommodation in Omagh town. The greatest demand was for 1-bedroom homes, with 494 households requiring this type of accommodation, followed by a need for 134 two-bedroom homes.
“Housing in Omagh is becoming increasingly inaccessible. While there are homes for sale, many are priced at £250,000 or more, making it difficult for most people to afford them. Private rentals are also scarce, with only 6 or 7 properties currently available. Meanwhile, social housing options are non-existent, and although a large development by a housing association is underway, it won't be ready for some time.” Alex Burke, SLATE support worker
By converting the building above our offices, we can create two one-bedroom flats that will provide much-needed housing and help ease the ongoing homelessness crisis in our local community.
Who is Shelter NI and what do we do?
Since our foundation over 40yrs ago, Shelter NI has been actively campaigning to eliminate homelessness and poor housing across Northern Ireland, whilst developing innovative processes to create sustainable homes within our local communities.
SLATE - A Shelter NI Project
“SLATE adopts a personalised approach to uplift and empower each individual.”
SLATE provides temporary, fully furnished housing for young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or at risk. Our Omagh-based project offers 2 phases: "Step-Up," where we provide safe housing and tailored support for up to 2 years, and "Step-Down," where we help them transition into independent living. We're now looking to expand and create more affordable housing options in Omagh, but we need your support to make it happen!
Hear It from Those We’ve Helped
"I grew up in foster care and my time was due to end, I needed accommodation but knew I would need some help and support. The 16+ team suggested SLATE and I liked the idea of it, so we made a referral.
I wanted independence and my own space, and I have got both since moving into a SLATE flat. I also like it as it's close to town centre.
My support worker encouraged me to apply for a full-time job at a local factory and I was successful with this. I have worked there full-time for nearly 3 years now. I have also completed my SIA licence and have been enjoying doing security work at the weekends and when I have spare time.
I had thought about buying a house for several years but did not know how to start the process or think that I would be able to achieve this. My support worker and I attended an appointment with a mortgage advisor, and I was delighted that I was accepted for a mortgage. I enjoy support as it makes my life a lot easier, and I know I always have someone I can rely on. I feel like my life is finally moving in the right direction and have got the independence I wanted thanks to the SLATE team for everything they have supported me with and continue to support me through step down support in my own accommodation since I have moved on from a SLATE flat."
Blake
Building Hope: Progress Update on Our New Flats!
We have already started some work and we are super excited to share that we already have an architect on board who has completed the plans for the two one-bedroom flats. Right now, they’re working closely with us to get the planning permission needed to move forward.
We’re one step closer to providing much-needed housing for young and single people in Omagh, and now it’s in your hands to help us reach our final goal! With your continued support, we can turn this vision into reality!