A multi-agency national network

Supporting people affected by hoarding disorder

We bring together professionals, academics, and people with lived experience to improve understanding, support, and outcomes for those affected by hoarding disorder across the UK.

I hoard or think I might

Get help & self-assessment tools →

Find support services, local resources, and practical guidance

I’m a professional

Resources, guidelines & UK initiatives →

Housing, social care, NHS and emergency services

I’m a researcher or academic

Publications, networks & collaboration →

Connect with the UK hoarding research community

Understanding hoarding disorder

What is hoarding disorder?

Hoarding Disorder is a recognised mental health condition affecting around 5% of the population.

It involves the excessive accumulation of possessions and difficulty discarding them, to the extent that living spaces become severely cluttered.

Hoarding behaviours often begin in childhood and can be associated with experiences of trauma, grief, and neurodivergent conditions such as Autism or ADHD. It is not a lifestyle choice, and it is not due to laziness.

People who hoard can feel deeply embarrassed and isolated. The UKHP takes a non-judgmental, trauma-informed approach in all of its work.

Recognised diagnosis

Hoarding Disorder is classified in both the DSM-5 and ICD-11 as a distinct mental health condition — not a subtype of OCD.

Parliamentary recognition

In October 2025, hoarding disorder was discussed on the floor of the House of Commons for the first time, following an open letter from the UK Hoarding Partnership to MPs.

Multi-agency response needed

Effective support involves housing, NHS, social care, emergency services, and third-sector organisations working together — exactly what the UKHP facilitates.

Our reach