John Harris, 43, who lives in Gateshead, was at risk of losing his flat because of severe hoarding, but with help from the council and a local organisation, he has managed to turn his life around. He now says he will never let his home get into such a state again.
A Home Filled Floor to Ceiling
At its worst, Mr Harris's flat was filled from floor to ceiling, creating a serious fire risk and making the property unusable. He had lived there for 10 years but faced the possibility of becoming homeless again due to his hoarding issues.
Mr Harris, who has mental and physical health issues, neurodiversity, and a history of substance misuse, said: "I didn't realise I had a problem until someone pointed it out. After being homeless, you want to fill your home with all the things you didn't have before, and it gradually got worse."
Support from the Council and Local Business
He was referred to Gateshead Council's neighbourhood housing team, which offered him support from a local business, 2 Way Tenancy Solutions CIC. Mr Harris said that no one judged him and that the council worked with him to get rid of items he no longer needed.
He added: "From where I was to where I am now, it is a lot better because I can get to my bed and I can sleep in it. I feel a lot better for it."
Building Trust and Control
Sihle Mapanda from 2 Way Tenancy Solutions CIC said: "John was overwhelmed when he came to us, so building trust was essential. We worked alongside him at every stage, ensuring he stayed in control of every decision."
"The referral from Gateshead Council came at a crucial point. Today, he has a home he is proud of, is in a stronger financial position and continues to engage with the support he needs."
A New Outlook
Mr Harris says he could not have achieved this without the CIC's support and is "doing his best" to keep things clean and tidy. He said: "I feel a lot better for it and if it wasn't for Sihle's agency coming in and helping me and them giving 110% and me trying to when I have the issues I do, I wouldn't be where I am now. I always keep it nice, clean and tidy. I have got to because I'm not letting it fall into that state ever again."
Council Praise
Coun Gavin Brierley, Gateshead Council cabinet member for housing, said: "John's story shows that hoarding is often the result of much deeper personal challenges. By working together, we've helped him sustain his tenancy, improve his wellbeing and regain confidence in his home and future."
