[NPS Resource] Hoarding Education and Action Team in Greater Victoria

Hoarding is defined as the excessive collection of items, along with the inability to discard them. This can result in serious risks to the health and safety of those in the home and may require treatment as well as practical management strategies.

Hoarding is increasingly recognized as a significant problem within the Island Health region. It is estimated that 1 in 25 people have some level of hoarding behaviour. Island Health estimates that about 11,000 homes have a hoarding problem in the Greater Victoria area.

To help you take a realistic look at clutter problems, you can refer to the the Clutter Image Rating Scale to help you take stock of the clutter you are concerned about. If the clutter or what you observe is rated at '6' or higher on the clutter scale (see image and link above), Island Health can get involved to assess safety and see if they can assist in any way.

There is help for people struggling with clutter in the Greater, Victoria, BC. Please click this link for a helpful brochure.

If you need assistance with hoarding, whether it be for yourself or someone you care about, please explore the Hoarding Education & Action Team (HEAT) programs and services.