Worried About Someone's Self-Neglect or Hoarding?

Sometimes people struggle to look after themselves, their home, or their everyday needs. This may be because of physical health problems, mental ill health, disability, trauma, addiction, bereavement, or other difficult life circumstances.

You may be worried about a family member, friend, neighbour or someone in your community who appears unable or unwilling to care for themselves. They might not be eating properly, keeping themselves clean, taking care of their health, or maintaining a safe living environment. Some people may also collect or keep large amounts of items, leading to clutter that affects their safety and wellbeing.

Self-neglect and hoarding can have a serious impact on a person's health, independence, relationships and quality of life. In some situations, they can also increase the risk of fire, falls, illness or harm to other people living nearby.

If you are concerned about someone, it is important not to ignore the signs. Early support can help prevent problems from becoming more serious.

---

What Is Self-Neglect?

Self-neglect happens when a person is unable or unwilling to care for their own health, wellbeing or living environment.

This may include:

• Not eating or drinking enough.
• Poor personal hygiene.
• Not taking medication or accessing medical care.
• Living in unsafe or unhygienic conditions.
• Not keeping their home in a reasonable state of repair.
• Isolating themselves from family, friends or support services.

Self-neglect is often linked to underlying difficulties and should not be seen as simply a lifestyle choice without understanding the reasons behind it.

---

What Is Hoarding?

Hoarding is when someone finds it extremely difficult to throw away or part with possessions, regardless of their value.

A person who hoards may:

• Keep large quantities of items.
• Have rooms that cannot be used for their intended purpose.
• Feel distressed at the thought of throwing things away.
• Accumulate possessions that create safety risks.
• Experience difficulties with daily activities because of clutter.

Hoarding is recognised as a mental health condition and support is available.

---

How Can I Help?

If you are worried about someone:

• Talk to them if it is safe and appropriate to do so.
• Listen without judgement.
• Offer practical support where possible.
• Encourage them to seek help from health or support services.
• Share your concerns with relevant services if you believe they are at risk of harm.

Remember that lasting change often takes time. People may need support to understand and address the reasons behind their self-neglect or hoarding behaviours.

---

When Should I Seek Help?

You should seek advice or report your concerns if:

• The person appears unable to protect themselves from harm.
• There are serious health or safety risks.
• There is a risk of fire, injury or environmental hazards.
• The person is a vulnerable adult and may have care and support needs.
• You believe the situation is getting worse.

You do not need to be certain that abuse or neglect is taking place to raise a concern. If you are worried, it is always better to seek advice.

---

Remember

If something does not feel right, trust your instincts. Raising a concern may help someone access the support they need to stay safe, healthy and independent.