Hoarding

This framework applies to all agencies and professionals within Bradford District area who are working with or supporting people who may hoard and those who have signed up to the Protocol.

Aims of This Protocol

• Create a safer and healthier environment for the individual and others affected by the hoarding behaviour, for example family, neighbours.
• Develop a multi-agency pathway which will maximise the use of existing service’s and resources and which may reduce the need for compulsory solutions.
• Ensure that when solutions are required, there is a process for planning solutions tailored to meet the needs of the individual and utilising a person centred approach. Possible solutions could include clearance of the hoard, professional support and monitoring, property repairs and permanent or temporary re-housing.
• Develop creative ways of engaging individuals in the process.
• To establish best practice and improve knowledge of legislation that relates to hoarding behaviour through the Hoarding Panel.
• Ensure effective Partnership working and information sharing

Bradford District Hoarding Panel

This Protocol establishes the Bradford District Hoarding Panel as a forum for professionals and agencies dealing with hoarding cases within Bradford District to discuss and jointly find ways to resolve those cases.
The Panel’s role is to:

• review the circumstances of cases and the actions taken so far
• challenge and advise on the options available
• help the relevant organisations to coordinate and complete their actions
• remove barriers to cooperation
• signpost to agencies or organisations that could contribute

Referrals to the Hoarding Panel – Please refer to the Framework document for full details regarding referrals.

Organisations should email requests for discussion by the Hoarding Panel to the Housing Standards Team using the following email address:
CHESadminsupport@bradford.gov.uk.

Requests must be accompanied by:

• a completed Hoarding Assessment Tool Referral Form
• Photographs of the property/clutter where available;
• Supporting evidence including referral to West Yorkshire Fire Service, consideration of vulnerability, contacts with next of kin, involvement of other support services, safeguarding, tenancy conditions enforcement, antisocial behaviour enforcement, clearing and cleaning work undertaken;
• any other relevant information held by the organisation;