Hoarding Pathway
The Hoarding Pathway supports Havering residents to live safe, independent lives at home.
Resources > Healthy Home
Hoarding
Hoarding is when someone finds it very difficult to part with possessions, regardless of their value. Items can build up over time and make it harder to use parts of the home safely and comfortably.
Hoarding is often linked to difficult life experiences, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, or other emotional challenges. It is not simply being untidy or collecting things.
Many people who hoard feel overwhelmed, ashamed, or worried about being judged. Non-judgemental support is available to support Havering residents regain choice and control.
Self-help tips
If you are ready to make a start, remember that small steps can make a big difference.
- Be kind to yourself and recognise that change takes time.
- Set small, realistic goals, such as clearing one drawer, shelf, or box at a time.
- Focus on making one area of your home safer and easier to use.
- Sort items into simple categories such as Keep, Recycle, Donate, or Dispose.
- Take photographs before and after to help you see your progress.
- Keep a record of achievements, no matter how small.
- Ask a trusted friend, family member, or professional for support.
- Try to avoid bringing unnecessary new items into your home while you are decluttering.
- Celebrate progress and focus on what you have achieved rather than what is left to do.
Take the process at your own pace, set yourself realistic goals and recognise your progress.
When to ask for support
You may benefit from additional support if:
- Clutter is affecting your health, wellbeing, or daily life.
- Rooms can no longer be used for their intended purpose.
- You feel distressed when thinking about letting items go.
- There are concerns about fire safety, falls, hygiene, or accessing essential areas of your home.
- Hoarding is affecting relationships with family, friends, or neighbours.
Recovery is possible and support is available. Seeking help is a positive first step towards creating a safer, more comfortable home and improving your wellbeing.
Local support in Havering
The Hoarding Pathway supports adults living in Havering in:
- owner-occupied private homes
- Council housing
The Hoarding Pathway supports and empowers individuals to engage in activities themselves rather than be passive recipients of care services.
The Coordinator will support the resident to:
- live safe, independent life at home.
- Reduce risk from hazards, such as fire, falls and blocked exits.
- Improve the individual's ability to carry out daily living activities.
- Reduce the impact of hoarding on families, neighbours, emergency services and others.
- Encourage social connection and purpose, setting clear, achievable goals together.
Even if a referral isn't appropriate, the Hoarding Pathway Coordinators can still provide advice.
National support
Hoarding UK
The UK's national charity dedicated to supporting people affected by hoarding behaviour. They offer information, advice, training, resources and support services.
Visit Hoarding UK
Hoarding UK Self-Help Tips
Practical advice for people who hoard and for family members supporting them.
View self-help tips
Mind
Information about hoarding, mental health and practical coping strategies.
Read Mind's hoarding support guide
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Related Services
Related services
Hoarding UK
Since 2008, HoardingUK has provided a support service to people, or people close to, and professionals impacted by hoarding behaviour. Our values, in relation to this, has been that we provide a holistic support.
