Hoarding

[Margaret Blumsom]

We have discovered that one of our residents is hoarding. The extent of the problem was only discovered when she was asked to move out so that we could do repairs to her roof and to deal with a damp problem.

Does anyone have advice on how to deal with this? I have asked for a Fire Officer assessment and we will interview her. But are there any practical suggestions about help and support to address the hoarding behaviour?

I feel that without a change of behaviour we might need to give Notice to Quit.

[clerk.stjohnswilton]

Margaret

Have you seen this? (You need to click/tap on any picture).

Hoarding

I seem to remember that there was a seminar on hoarding a couple of years ago, organised by the Almshouse Association, located in Tiverton. Perhaps you could contact the Association for information about the seminar contents and see if they have the names of helpful contacts?

Nick Stiven
clerk@stjohnswilton.org.uk

[a.prior@btinternet.com]

Hoarding is now a recognised mental illness
Tony Prior

[Hazel Dean]

Setting aside an appointment is the last resort here. I would hope you discuss the problem rather than interview the resident. Ask in what way you can help. Engage family, friends etc and if to no avail then following the fire officers report and no discernible change in behaviour then the matter is notifiable to Social Services if I have that correct. Tread carefully and kindly but firm.

[Anonymous]

We have two residents who are hoarders! One is now being monitored and her family is also on board with clearing the property. We have arranged a re-visit in a months time giving her and the family a chance to de-clutter just one room for now. We are hoping to see a difference!!
The other resident has been monitored for many months! We have been doing monthly inspections for the past year or so to help her and only give her one room at a time to clear and this is the only room we re-inspect. It has worked to a point but it is still not enough with the minimal of items being removed but other items being added!!. We have therefore decided, and now with her consent, to help her clear the kitchen as this needs work on it. We have arranged to also take any rubbish to the tip and other items to the charity shop as she wishes. It’s been a long process and we have been very aware that this has been distressing for her but we have treated her with the upmost patience and consideration to finally get her agreement for us to help. We are hoping this will be the start of getting her home in order.

Julie Tipler

[Author]

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