Council Support for Hoarding Cases

Local authorities have an important role in supporting people who hoard, particularly where there are risks to health, safety or housing. Knowing what help is available — and how to access it — can make a real difference.

Adult social care

If a person's hoarding is affecting their ability to live safely, adult social care can carry out an assessment and may provide support, particularly for older or vulnerable adults. Concerns can usually be raised through the local council's safeguarding or social care team.

Environmental health

Where conditions pose a risk to health — for example through pests, waste or unsanitary living — environmental health teams can become involved, ideally in a supportive rather than purely enforcement-led way.

Fire service home safety visits

Many fire and rescue services offer free safe-and-well visits, fitting smoke alarms and giving fire safety advice tailored to the home.

A joined-up approach

The best outcomes come from agencies working together — social care, housing, mental health services and a compassionate clearance team. We regularly coordinate with local authorities; see our services for local authorities.

This guide is provided for general information by Durham Hoarding, hoarding cleanup specialists serving County Durham. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.