“People affected by hoarding disorder are likely to always live with some clutter, however, with the right support it can be managed”
An interview with Linda Fay from Life-Pod.
Ahead of her session ‘Helping Tenants who Hoard’ at the SFHA Housing Management Conference in September, Linda Fay from Life-Pod explains why she thinks hoarding is something that can be managed.
What made you move from working in communications to working in clutter management?
“My communications roles involved planning, engagement and change - all very transferrable skills. Once I decided to make a career change, I looked at my core skills and what I enjoyed, which was always around people, planning and organising. This led me to set up Life-Pod – and I’ve never looked back!”
What do you enjoy most about your job and what is the most challenging aspect of it?
“The thing I enjoy most about my job is all the courageous and creative people that I meet. The most challenging aspect is the constant pressure from others to get quick results. It’s not the way I work since what we’re aiming for is behaviour change and that takes time and patience.”
Do you think hoarding disorder is something that can be managed or will it always be an ongoing problem?
“Both. Hoarding is a complex chronic condition and sufferers are likely to always live with some clutter. However, with the right support, people can learn to manage their compulsive acquiring and saving. They may not ever be clutter-free but they can live safer and more comfortably in their home.”
Do you think hoarding disorder can be spotted and prevented from a young age?
“Yes; well I hope so. This is an area that is likely to be researched in light of the new mental health classification. There is a still a lot to learn about the condition but we do know that hoarding behaviours start in childhood. Knowing that means we can seek to identify the traits early and find ways to help those affected.”
Finally, what are you looking forward to most about the conference?
“I’m looking forward to meeting some new people and catching up with familiar friendly faces! Events like this provide great networking opportunities and potential future collaborations.”
Come along to Linda’s session ‘Helping Tenants who Hoard’, which takes place on day one of the SFHA Housing Management Conference. This year’s conference takes place on 25 and 26 September at The Studio in central Glasgow. Day delegate places start at £219 for SFHA members. Members can also book both days for £375 – saving £63! Alternatively, book three places and get a fourth FREE!
To book your place at this year’s Housing Management Conference or for more information, please visit www.sfha.co.uk/whats-on.