Alliance Homes is supporting National Hoarding Awareness Week (11 – 15 May 2025). The awareness week aims to help people understand hoarding better, reduce the stigma and signpost them to support.
What is hoarding?
The mental health charity Mind defines hoarding as having so many things that you can't manage where you live, and you find it difficult or impossible to throw things away.
Hoarding is a recognised mental health condition. It can affect anyone and often starts after challenging experiences, such as loss, trauma or big changes in life.
Hoarding is different to clutter and disorganisation, and due to its complexity should be supported with care, patience and empathy.
Why hoarding is unsafe
We want all our customers to live happily, safely, and comfortably in their homes. Too many items and excessive clutter can make everyday life more difficult and less safe.
Items can block pathways and increase the risk of trips and falls. Clutter can also make cleaning difficult, which may lead to more serious issues such as pests and illness.
Hoarding is also a fire risk, especially if doors and exits are blocked. This can make it harder for people to leave or for emergency services to help.
Some people may feel embarrassed or anxious about their home and stop allowing visitors or repair work. Over time, this can lead to problems building up, negatively affect their mental health and wellbeing, and increase the risk of their home becoming unsafe.
What support is available?
We understand that hoarding can feel overwhelming and that asking for help is not easy. That is why our Neighbourhoods team has a dedicated Tenancy Officer who supports customers affected by hoarding.
This service focuses on listening, offering help without judgement and keeping people safe in their homes. The service is available to all Alliance Homes customers.
Customers or family, friends, and neighbours with permission, can ask for support by emailing act@alliancehomes.org.uk and requesting the hoarding support service.
We also take part in monthly drop‑in groups organised by Respect My Stuff in Weston‑super‑Mare and Portishead. More information about these is available on our Hoarding webpage.
Clearing up common myths
Laura, our Tenancy Officer for hoarding support, says people often misunderstand hoarding. It is not about being lazy or messy, but a mental health condition that requires targeted support.
She explains that forcing someone to clear their home does not solve the problem and can be very distressing. Instead, she works closely with customers to build trust and understanding, recognising that real change takes time. Laura provides tailored one-to-one advice, carries out regular home visits and check-ins, and offers practical help, as well as support for family members.
If you need help with hoarding, please contact act@alliancehomes.org.uk or call 03000 120 120.