"As someone who has been a resident within SLATE, I have loved my time with them.
It was honestly sad to say goodbye to them when my time came to its end being within the project, but the memories will last as I'm greatly appreciative of all their help and support.
SLATE has helped me a lot especially when it comes to mental, physical and emotional health. They offer a lot of support with open hearts and care for their residents within Slate. They are always there to listen, and support in need and never failed to put a smile on my face. Talking to the staff always made my day with their positive souls and friendly experience.
When I first came to SLATE it was my first experience living alone and independent. I had their support alongside my personal journey and enjoyed my weekly talking sessions with my personal support worker, having fun talking sessions about anything and also appreciated their holistic support.
One thing I liked was when resident meetings would happen, bringing members together and doing fun activities. This showed me that I'm not alone and the positivity from other members within Slate showed postive progress for every individual with whatever their story was as everyone seemed to love the staff and appreciate their work.
I still remember one of our residents’ meetings and really loved the day we all went to Railway Karting in Cookstown. Also after that we went for a meal in the Aviary (Transport and everything all supported by Slate) This was a really fun experience and didn't fail to put a smile on everyone's face as we all competed against one another and got to know each other.
I found the experience with SLATE my first step of becoming the person I am, having a place of my own making it easy to attend college, seeing my friends and having a place to call home.
I would recommend Slate to people who need the positive change and support with everyday life and highly recommend getting to know their personal support worker. Talking can be scary especially in a new environment, but I can guarantee that the Slate staff will help you feel at home."
Max, SLATE service User
“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 its 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, SLATE Service User
"I have been living on the SLATE Project since Oct 2014, during this time I have been supported with different things such as applying for training courses, making and attending appointments, managing money and overall learning to live independently.
I am now ready to move on and have found a new flat which I will move into, the Slate project are helping me with my move and staff contacted the CHNI (Council for Homeless Northern Ireland) who supplied me with a move-in pack, which I am more than pleased with. I will continue to work with Slate on Floating Support as it’s great to know they are there for me if I need it."
Dwayne, SLATE Service User
“Hi, my name is Charlene. I've been living on the SLATE project since November 2015. The project has given me my own flat where I can live independently with the support of the staff and my support worker Louise. During my time on the project, I have been given the opportunity to take part in different events, such as the YPI NI (Youth Philanthropy Initiative Northern Ireland) and a PANI (Publicity Association Northern Ireland) questionnaire. Throughout my stay on the project, I have been attending the Special Olympic sports in our local leisure centre where I have taken part in several competitions and won 5 medals. SLATE project is fun, and I love getting involved with any activities the project offers. Without the project I wouldn’t be where I am now or as happy as I am.”
Charlene, SLATE Service User
“I was placed in a beautiful one-bedroom flat; this was my first real home. Without SLATE I doubt I would be where I am today. Many thanks SLATE Project!!!”
Chantelle, SLATE Service User
