How Did We Get Here? The Housing Crisis Explained

Northern Ireland, is grappling with a housing crisis that has reached critical levels. But how did we get to this point? Understanding the roots of this crisis involves unpacking the intertwined issues of housing supply, affordability and the broader impact these factors are having on society. In collaboration with Simon Community Northern Ireland (SCNI), PropertyPal is committed to addressing this crisis, focusing particularly on the issue of hidden homelessness, a significant yet often overlooked aspect of housing insecurity.

The Housing Crisis: Supply, Affordability, and Consequences

One of the most significant drivers behind the current crisis is the mismatch between housing supply and demand. For years, new housing construction has lagged behind the growing needs of the population. Planning restrictions, rising construction costs, and limited land availability have all contributed to a slow housing pipeline. Coupled with an increasing population, this has exacerbated the pressure on both the housing and rental markets.

The result? Property prices have soared, placing homeownership out of reach for many. First-time buyers in particular, are finding it increasingly difficult to secure a foothold on the property ladder. But it’s not just buyers feeling the squeeze—rents are also rising rapidly as more people turn to the rental market, further inflating demand for every available property.

As housing becomes more unaffordable, we are witnessing a disturbing trend: more individuals and families are being pushed towards the brink of poverty and homelessness. When a significant portion of household income is spent on rent or mortgage payments, little is left for other essentials. This financial strain disproportionately affects lower-income households, deepening existing inequalities. Housing costs have become one of the biggest drivers of poverty, forcing families to make impossible choices between heating their homes, feeding their children, or keeping a roof over their heads.

Hidden Homelessness: An Urgent and Overlooked Crisis

Homelessness is often associated with individuals sleeping rough on the streets, but the reality is much broader and more complex. Hidden homelessness refers to individuals who do not have a permanent home and are living in precarious situations—sofa surfing, staying in temporary accommodation, or living in overcrowded conditions with family or friends. This form of homelessness is largely invisible and often overlooked, yet it is a growing issue across Northern Ireland.

Recent data highlights a worrying trend in the rise of hidden homelessness. Many people do not realise the extent of the problem because it is not always visible. Individuals affected by hidden homelessness may not seek help from services, making it difficult to gauge the full scale of the issue. Economic challenges, lack of affordable housing, and personal crises are contributing factors to this phenomenon.

At the Simon Community Northern Ireland, they see first-hand the devastating impact of housing insecurity every day. They work with individuals and families who have been pushed to the margins by an unyielding property market. Their work highlights the urgent need for a long-term solution that not only addresses the immediate needs of those without a home but also tackles the root causes of the housing crisis.

PropertyPal & SCNI: A Partnership for Change

In a significant move towards addressing this pressing issue, PropertyPal is proud to announce our partnership with Simon Community Northern Ireland. This collaboration aims to shine a light on the issue of hidden homelessness and to drive public awareness and education on this critical topic. Together, we aim to bring hidden homelessness to the forefront of public consciousness and work towards practical solutions to help those in need.

Our efforts will focus on several key areas:

• Awareness Campaigns: Utilising our platform and resources to raise awareness about hidden homelessness. Through social media, blogs and community events, we will share stories and facts to inform and educate the public about the housing crisis and the many forms homelessness takes.
• Support Services: Working closely with SCNI to support their initiatives and services that directly assist those affected by hidden homelessness. This includes funding, volunteering and providing expertise in areas where we can make a difference.
• Policy Advocacy: Joining forces to advocate for policy changes that address the root causes of hidden homelessness. This involves engaging with policymakers, stakeholders and the broader community to drive systemic change. We believe in creating an environment where housing is not a privilege but a right for all.

The Importance of Social Housing

In the face of this crisis, the role of social housing has never been more crucial. Social housing provides a safety net for those who are most at risk of homelessness and poverty. Despite its importance, we continue to see a shortfall in social housing provision in Northern Ireland. This is a critical issue that must be addressed if we are to stem the tide of housing insecurity and provide a stable future for those in need.

The high demand for rental properties also plays into this crisis. At PropertyPal, we have seen stark trends emerge in the rental sector. Demand for rental properties has surged in recent years, far outstripping supply. For every available rental, there are often dozens of interested parties, further driving up rents. This high demand and low supply create a competitive market that often prices out the most vulnerable, leading to overcrowded living conditions or, in the worst cases, homelessness.

How You Can Help?

Addressing hidden homelessness requires a collective effort. Here are a few ways you can contribute:

• Stay Informed: Educate yourself about hidden homelessness and share this knowledge with others. Understanding the issue is the first step towards making a difference.
• Support Local Charities: Donate or volunteer with organisations like SCNI that are working tirelessly to support those affected by homelessness.
• Advocate for Change: Engage with local representatives and policymakers to advocate for policies that address homelessness and housing insecurity.
   

The housing crisis in Northern Ireland, driven by a lack of supply, affordability issues, and rising demand, has pushed many people to the brink of homelessness. Hidden homelessness, in particular, is an often invisible aspect of this crisis that demands our immediate attention. Our partnership with Simon Community Northern Ireland marks a significant step towards addressing these issues through awareness, support, and advocacy.

At PropertyPal, we believe that everyone deserves a safe and secure place to call home. We are committed to making this belief a reality through our collaboration with SCNI and other stakeholders. Together, we can create a future where hidden homelessness and housing insecurity are a thing of the past.

For more information about our partnership and how you can get involved, please visit our website or contact us directly. Together, we can make a difference.

To get involved with the Simon Community Northern Ireland or if you want to learn more, please click the button below.