It will build on the success of a Black Country-wide hoarding awareness event earlier this year, which brought together professionals and individuals with lived experience to share best practice and challenge perceptions.
Led by Ian Porter, Psychologist and Coordinator of the Northwest Hoarders Helping Hoarders Network, the day will feature expert insights, practical discussions, and a special performance of ‘Landfill of Memories’ by Susanna Amato, a moving autobiographical piece which brings to life the complexities of hoarding.
The event will also mark the official launch of the Wolverhampton Hoarding Improvement Programme, a new initiative designed to enhance local provision and raise awareness, while there will also be a brief introduction to a psychosocial and peer support group based intervention, showcasing how community connections and shared experiences can play a vital role in recovery and ongoing support.
Councillor Paula Brookfield, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults, said: “A hoarding disorder is where someone acquires an excessive number of items, often of little or no monetary value, and stores them in a chaotic manner, usually leading to unmanageable amounts of clutter.
“It can be a significant problem if this clutter interferes with everyday living – for example, the person is unable to use or access their kitchen, bathroom or other rooms in their house – or if the clutter is causing significant distress or negatively affecting the quality of life of the person or their family.
“As a council, we are committed to working closely together as organisations and with people who have experienced hoarding behaviours to develop suitable support services that work, and do not further traumatise or stigmatise people.
"Wednesday's event seeks to challenge misconceptions about hoarding, encourage understanding, and shine a light on the systemic and multi agency challenges involved in supporting those affected. By bringing together social care, health professionals, voluntary organisations, and those with personal experience, we are looking to foster a more coordinated local response and promote lasting positive change."
Professionals are encouraged to attend, join the conversation, and help shape a more supportive Wolverhampton. For more information, to book places, or to share stories, please email WSTTraining@wolverhampton.gov.uk.
The NHS and Mind websites have information and advice to help people recognise hoarding behaviours and how to get support. Alternatively, people are encouraged to speak to their GP.
Anyone with concerns about an adult should call Adult Social Care on 01902 551199 or 01902 552999 out of hours. In an emergency, dial 999.
