A SUPPORT group has been set up by the fire service for those living with hoarding behaviour.
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and well advisor Michelle White has set up the support group to offer a place for people affected by hoarding.
Working with BCP Council, Sovereign Housing and Poole Housing Partnership, there will be support with practical help and the ability to share feelings relating to hoarding behaviour and gain a better understanding for all.
Hoarders can fill entire rooms from floor to ceiling, leaving themselves the minimum space in which to live. This retention of belongings presents a real fire risk and makes it far harder for firefighters to be able to tackle any blaze and delay an occupants escape.
Michelle said: “Hoarding is a mental health illness and there are very limited support networks for people living with this condition.
“I see people on a weekly basis who experience different levels of hoarding and felt that a support group was needed.
“I am so pleased that our partner agencies have been able to support this project.”
The sessions will be held on the first Tuesday of each month starting on April 5 at Trinidad Village, Rossmore Road, Poole from 5pm to 6:30pm.
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