Hoarding Disorder

Introduction

• Fire & Rescue Services throughout the UK have reported incidents where Hoarding has affected firefighting operations.

• Hoarding may be encountered during a Home Fire Safety Check or at an incident.

• Identifying Hoarding Behaviour can be subjective as what it means to have a cluttered home can vary from person to person.

• To overcome this a risk assessment has been developed by psychologist specialising in the treatment of hoarding disorder.

Clutter Image Rating Risk Assessment

• Select which image best matches the clutter in each room.

• Unless the property is a one room flat, a single room should not be used in isolation.

• This should not be used in consultation with the person displaying hoarding disorder.

Actions to take

• Levels 2-4 Carryout a HFSC giving specific advice around reducing the fire risks associated with hoarding behaviour.

• Levels 5-9 Carryout a HFSC, as above. Discuss options with the resident regarding a referral to a partner agency for help with managing their hoarding behaviour. Inform Controls Mobilisation Queries.

• For all levels provide Self Help leaflet.

• When hoarding disorder puts them or others at risk at Safeguarding referral should be made.

What can we do?

• Provide advise on Fire Safety• Keeping escape routes clear• Provide smoke alarms and safety

equipment• Aqua-mist sprinkler system • Sign posting

• Safeguarding Officer Diana Harris

d.harris@mawwfire.gov.uk