Understanding Hoarding

Hoarding can seriously affect a person's wellbeing and safety. Hoarding can lead to a fire starting which could put lives at risk.

Commonly hoarded items can include newspapers, magazines, paper and plastic bags, photographs, household supplies, food and clothing.

What you can do if you suspect someone is hoarding

If you are concerned about your own situation or think a family member or someone you know has a hoarding disorder, arrange to see a GP in the first instance. This may not be easy, as someone who hoards might not think they need help.

If supporting a family member or friend, try to be sensitive about the issue and emphasize your concerns for their health and wellbeing. Reassure them that nobody is going to go into their home and throw everything out. You're just going to have a chat with the doctor about their hoarding to see what can be done and what support is available to empower them to begin the process of decluttering.

The GP may be able to refer you/your family member or friend to a local community mental health team, which might have a therapist who's familiar with issues such as OCD and hoarding. 

Please look at the images below, the images in red (numbers 7,8,9) are highly unsafe and requires the concern to be raised immediately on 01902 555392 so that help can be provided.