How we can help ...

Hoarding is not new. What is new is the recognition that it is a condition for which people need help, and that help is now available.

Heather uses a person-centred approach based on patience and understanding which allows hoarders to make their own decisions in their own homes. “You have to work with people and listen to them,” she says. “We are always non-judgemental, never chastise, and try to get them to recognize that their lives can be better without so much clutter. Eventually hoarders can find new pleasures in sorting out their stuff and discarding it.”

For those hoarders who resist this process, a strategy of ‘harm reduction’ can be adopted. This accepts that the hoarding is likely to continue, but minimizes its dangers by keeping doors and stairwells clear and moving newspapers and clothes away from stoves or space heaters. What experts and hoarders alike agree on is that anger and resentment don't work.

“Hoarders need support and non-judgemental advice to help develop new strategies,” says Heather. “It is hard work for all parties involved. There is no quick fix but empowering a person to help themselves is always the best practice.”

Clouds End CIC works directly with individuals as well as under contract to organisations such as social services, housing associations, landlords, Primary Care Trusts or anyone else who needs to tackle hoarding situations that are creating problems.