Help & Support for Hoarding Situations

Living with hoarding, or supporting someone who is affected by it, can feel overwhelming. Many people experience anxiety, embarrassment, or fear about asking for help — especially when the condition of a property has been building up over a long period of time.

At Trauma Renovations, we understand that hoarding is not about laziness or neglect. It is often linked to mental health challenges, trauma, bereavement, or long-term stress. This page is here to offer reassurance, understanding, and practical guidance for anyone affected by a hoarding situation.

You Are Not Alone

Hoarding affects people from all walks of life. It can impact individuals, families, landlords, and carers, and it often develops gradually.

It’s common for people to:

• Feel embarrassed about the condition of their home
• Avoid letting others inside
• Feel anxious about being judged
• Worry about where to start

Asking for help can be one of the hardest steps — but it is also the most important one.

Understanding Hoarding as a Mental Health Issue

Hoarding is widely recognised as a complex mental health condition, not simply a cleaning issue. For many people, possessions are closely linked to feelings of safety, identity, or control.

This is why hoarding situations need to be approached with:

• Patience
• Respect
• Sensitivity
• A non-judgmental attitude

Rushing the process or forcing decisions can increase distress. A calm, supportive approach is essential.

Practical First Steps That Can Help

If you or someone you care for is struggling with hoarding, these steps can help make things feel more manageable:

1. Take it one step at a time

You don’t need to tackle everything at once. Focusing on a single room or even a small area can reduce anxiety and help build confidence.

2. Accept help when it’s offered

Support can come from many places — family, friends, healthcare professionals, or specialist services. Accepting help does not mean losing control.

3. Prioritise wellbeing

The emotional wellbeing of the person affected is just as important as the condition of the property.

Emotional and Wellbeing Support

Some people affected by hoarding find it helpful to speak with:

• A GP
• A mental health professional
• A counsellor or therapist
• Local support organisations or charities

These professionals can help address the underlying causes of hoarding and provide emotional support alongside practical steps.

Practical Support With the Property

In many situations, specialist cleaning and clearance is needed to address health, safety, or living conditions. This can include:

• Hoarding cleaning and clearance
• Deep cleaning and sanitisation
• Waste removal
• Odour control
• Restoring spaces so they can be used again

This type of work should always be carried out with discretion and respect for the individual involved.

Our Approach at Trauma Renovations

We are an independent specialist cleaning and property support company. Our role is to help with the practical side of hoarding situations, while being mindful of the emotional challenges involved.

Our approach is:

• Calm and non-judgmental
• Discreet and respectful
• Focused on working at a pace that feels manageable
• Led by the needs of the client

We understand that every situation is different, and there is no “one size fits all” solution.

We Don’t Offer Advice on Funding or Benefits

While there may be support options available through healthcare providers, charities, or local services, we do not provide funding or benefits advice. However, we are always happy to:

• Talk through your situation
• Explain what our services involve
• Help you understand practical next steps

There is no pressure or obligation to proceed.

For Family Members, Friends, and Carers

Supporting someone affected by hoarding can be emotionally draining. It’s important to:

• Look after your own wellbeing
• Avoid confrontation or judgment
• Encourage support rather than force change

Professional help can reduce strain on relationships and provide a structured, compassionate way forward.

Taking the First Step

If you are unsure what to do next, starting with a conversation can help. Even discussing options without committing to anything can make the situation feel less overwhelming.

We are happy to speak confidentially and answer questions — whether you are ready to take action now or simply exploring options.

Contact Trauma Renovations

If you or someone you care for is affected by a hoarding situation and would like practical support delivered with understanding and discretion, please get in touch.

We are here to help you take the next step, at a pace that feels right.