Self-Neglect and Hoarding Practice Guidance

The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Safeguarding Adults Board's Self-Neglect and Hoarding Practice Guidance supports practitioners in responding effectively to adults who are experiencing, or at risk of, self-neglect. The guidance promotes a consistent, person-centred and trauma-informed approach that focuses on understanding individual circumstances, building trusting relationships, and reducing risk through collaborative multi-agency working.

The guidance provides practical advice on assessing risk, engaging with adults who may be reluctant to accept support, and applying the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, including consideration of executive functioning. It also promotes the use of the Adult Risk Management (ARM) process to coordinate support, share information and develop multi-agency plans where risks are complex or ongoing.

Recognising that self-neglect is often linked to a range of social, psychological and health-related factors, the guidance encourages professional curiosity, persistence and strengths-based practice to improve engagement and outcomes.

Overall, the guidance aims to support compassionate, coordinated and legally informed practice that helps adults experiencing self-neglect to improve their safety, wellbeing and quality of life.