Case study 3 - Safe and Well hoarding support

A home fire safety visit (Safe and Well) was carried out for MJ, a lady with a level 7/8 hoarding concern around her property. She had been referred for a Safe and Well visit by the Adult Services team.

At the time of the visit the Community Safety Assistant (CSA) found the property packed with items including empty food packets scattered around, as well as dog faeces. MJ was also displaying other behaviours associated with poor mental health.

Concerned for MJ’s safety and wellbeing, the CSA was able to obtain her consent for a Priority 3 safeguarding referral to be made. This enabled support to be provided at MJ’s pace so she could maintain control of her living environment.

On the second visit, the house was much clearer. MJ had walkways into every room, and she said that her mental health had improved a lot. She was also looking forward to her new cleaner starting soon.

The house was in a much better condition with hoarding brought down to Level 4/5 from a level 7/8.

The Service and other partner agencies will continue to support MJ and although she still displays hoarding behaviours, this has significantly reduced since the HIWFRS intervention, meaning a lower level of fire risk.