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£384.95A warning has been issued that hoarding in the UK has escalated into a “mental health emergency” that demands urgent action. Clouds End CIC, a prominent social enterprise, has been offering assistance to over 300 hoarders in Birmingham, aiding them in decluttering their residences and motivating them to participate in mental health support groups. This initiative is supported by Birmingham City Council and works closely with social services. Research indicates that approximately 2-5% of the UK population may have hoarding disorder, classified as a mental health condition by the World Health Organisation in 2018. Nonetheless, according to Heather Matuozzo, the founder of Clouds End CIC, the actual figure would have risen significantly after the outbreak of the pandemic.
Heather Matuozzo expressed her concern over the escalating trend in hoarding, stating, “Our referrals are certainly increasing – it’s a behind-closed-doors mental health emergency.” Moreover, she highlighted the desperate need for immediate intervention, emphasizing the importance of addressing the issue promptly. Hoarding behavior is defined as the persistent accumulation of possessions leading to cluttered living spaces that may compromise their functionality and safety. The prevalence of hoarders over the age of 60 is particularly notable, with four out of every ten cases falling within this demographic. The Clouds End project ‘Chaos 2 Order,’ operating in Birmingham, has been closely monitored by the BBC for four months, showcasing its impactful efforts in assisting hoarders and providing training to relevant agencies.
Sue, who began hoarding in her late teens, opened up about her struggles and journey towards overcoming this challenge. Encountering a series of traumatic experiences and unresolved issues, Sue sought solace in the act of hoarding. She emphasized the significance of seeking help from medical professionals and charities for individuals undergoing similar struggles. Sue’s gradual transition towards decluttering her living space and offering support to others embarking on a similar journey underscores the transformative impact of collaborative assistance. David, another individual grappling with hoarding tendencies, shared insights into his experience and attachment to accumulating possessions. Despite previous attempts at decluttering, David succumbed to intensive hoarding behavior, indicating the inherent challenges in breaking this pattern.
The risks associated with extensive hoarding were underscored, emphasizing the urgency for holistic and nuanced approaches to address this issue. With a record of fatalities and injuries stemming from hoarded properties, the imperative for effective decluttering strategies and comprehensive social care initiatives was evident. Calls for a national hoarding strategy and the establishment of a Hoarding Charter in Birmingham were made to address the deep-rooted trauma and complex needs of individuals grappling with hoarding disorder. Reflecting on the global landscape, initiatives in the US and guidelines from the British Psychological Society shed light on the evolving discourse surrounding hoarding disorder. Sam Wainman, a doctoral researcher specializing in Hoarding Disorder, reiterated the crucial need for a person-centered approach in addressing hoarding behaviors. While the government has emphasized its commitment to improving mental health services, stakeholders continue to advocate for a more targeted and systematic response to tackle hoarding on a national scale
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