Self-Neglect & Hoarding Workshop

Target Audience:

This workshop is designed for all professionals who may come into contact with adults experiencing self-neglect, hoarding behaviours, or increased fire risk as part of their role. It is particularly relevant for practitioners responsible for recognising concerns, assessing risk, making decisions, and sharing information with appropriate agencies.

Participants may include those working in housing, fire and rescue services, environmental health, adult social care, health services, police, care and support services, homelessness services, criminal justice settings, community and voluntary organisations, and other public-facing or caring roles.

Aim of the session:

To increase awareness of self-neglect, hoarding and fire risk, and to develop confidence in recognising, assessing and responding to concerns. The session will explore relevant legislation, local policies and procedures, and support practitioners to understand their role in promoting wellbeing, reducing harm, and safeguarding adults at risk.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the workshop, participants will:

Understand self-neglect within the context of the Care Act 2014 and adult safeguarding.
Recognise the different forms of self-neglect and hoarding, including common signs and indicators.
Develop awareness of current legislation, local policies and multi-agency procedures relating to self-neglect and hoarding.
Identify levels of risk and potential harm, and understand how safeguarding thresholds may apply.
Explore practical approaches and strategies to support adults who are self-neglecting.
Understand how to use the Risk Threshold Tool and Clutter Rating Scale to inform assessment and decision-making.
Recognise fire risks associated with self-neglect and hoarding, and identify actions that can help reduce or manage those risks.
Learn from Safeguarding Adult Reviews and consider how findings can influence professional practice and improve outcomes for adults at risk.

This interactive workshop encourages reflection on professional practice and promotes a coordinated, multi-agency approach to supporting adults experiencing self-neglect, hoarding and associated fire risks.