Self-neglect is a behavioural condition where an individual persistently neglects to care for their personal hygiene, health conditions or surroundings, including hoarding. This is not the same as general ‘Christmas clutter’.
The individual might deny there is anything wrong, and say that it is their choice to live like this. (Is this really a lifestyle choice?) They may want to be left alone, feeling ashamed about their situation. Cases of self-neglect where the individual has capacity are extremely challenging and require a multidisciplinary approach.
More information about Self-Neglect and Hoarding, and how to respond to this, can be found in our local Self-Neglect and Hoarding Guidance. The Guidance has also been broken down into sections - see below links, plus the appendices down the right hand column. You may also find it helpful to use our related 7 Minute Briefing to share information with teams / work colleagues.
Staff who have concerns about a specific individual shouldn’t hesitate to raise these with your line manager, and anyone can also seek advice from the Adult Protection Social Work Team on 0800 731 5520.
The Self-Neglect and Hoarding Guidance has been broken down into chunks, below, and in the appendices, to the right:
- Introduction, Guidance and Definitions
- Self Neglect Assessment
- Pulling together to find solutions
- Information Sharing
- Developing an approach
- Moving forwards, post-intervention and self-management
- Non-engagement and service refusal
- Support for professionals
Find out more information on Aberdeen Practitioner Guidance and Protocols.