Hoarding

Hoarding disorder is when someone acquires an excessive quantity of items and stores them chaotically, usually resulting in unmanageable amounts of clutter. The items can be of little or no monetary value.

Hoarding is considered a significant problem if:

the amount of clutter interferes with everyday living – for example, the person is unable to use their kitchen or bathroom and cannot access rooms
the clutter is causing significant distress or negatively affecting the quality of life of the person or their family – for example, they become upset if someone tries to clear the clutter, and their relationship suffers

Signs of a hoarding disorder

keep or collect items that may have little or no monetary value, such as junk mail and carrier bags, or items they intend to reuse or repair
find it hard to categorise or organise items
have difficulties making decisions
struggle to manage everyday tasks, such as cooking, cleaning and paying bills
become extremely attached to items, refusing to let anyone touch or borrow them
have poor relationships with family or friends

What you can do if you suspect someone is hoarding

It is important to encourage a hoarding person to seek help, as their disorder can cause loneliness, mental health problems and health and safety risks. If you think a family member or someone you know has a hoarding disorder, encourage them to contact their GP. This may not be easy, as someone who hoards might not think they need help.

We will work with partner agencies to

Support customers who are known or suspected hoarders or those who have a particular compulsive behaviour
Raise awareness of hoarding and compulsive behaviour disorder
Work closely with the Fire Service and other agencies such as the Adult Social Care Service to identify, monitor and reduce cases of hoarding and compulsive behaviour disorders
Work with support staff to help the customer