Introduction

Our hoarding service is designed to support clients to reduce the level of clutter within their property, making the environment safer. Our Independent Living Officers work with people who struggle to discard items. They are not a cleaning service, but support clients to overcome the barriers they face by creating a plan to make behavioural changes, set goals and implement routines. The Independent Living Officers provide support clients with managing the tasks that they would like to complete, and arrange the removal of items when ready.

Working at the client’s pace, we use a multi-disciplinary approach, linking our clients in with other services and organisations as appropriate. We work with all tenures, housing associations, private landlords and homeowners.

The assistance and time provided by the Independent Living Officers incurs no cost, but depending on circumstances, there may be financial implications further on in the process for the removal and disposal of items. The team will work with everyone involved to explore various funding options should this be the case.

On average, our cases remain open for around 12 months, after which time the Independent Living Officers will work to address any repairs that may be required, and provide support with possible funding options that are available at the time.

Eligibility

• Level five and above on the national clutter rating scale – please see the Clutter Image Ratings website.

Or one or more of the following:

• Blocked exits
• Other serious hazards around the home such as fire, pests, and disrepair.
• Risk of losing tenancy
• Children under 16 living in the property.
• Limited mobility due to health or similar impeding disabilities.