Safer Maidstone Partnership

Case Study: Self Neglect/Hoarding

Snapshot:

·                Female, white, aged 83. Widowed in 1996 lives alone with her elderly dog.

·                Owner/Occupier lived in the same house for 50 plus years.

·                Estranged son who lives in Ramsgate.

November 2013

·                Concerns raised to MBC Environmental Enforcement in November 2013, due to complaints of noise nuisance and possible problems with rats.

·                Various agencies involved previously, several referrals made to Adult Safeguarding, but no support due to lack of engagement by resident.

March 2014

·         Numerous visits made by Community Safety, Environmental Enforcement, Kent Police, KCC Community Warden, still no engagement from Resident.

April 2014 – December 2014

·         Welfare concerns raised to Adult Safeguarding by attending agencies and also by residents GP.

·         No support from Adult Safeguarding or Mental health.

·         Private Sector Housing gained entry of the property by gaining a Warrant from the court.

·         Established the house was in very poor condition, and resident did not have access to facilities.

·         Further referrals made to Adult Safeguarding, however no support offered.

·         Environmental Enforcement Officers, began building relationships with resident and introduced her to a voluntary agency for support

·         Works Tendering process begins.

·         Slow progress due to lack of trust and engagement by resident, but is assisted with the support of Age UK officer.

·         Support and advice also offered to concerned neighbours.

March 2015

·                Maidstone Self Neglect/Hoarding Multi Agency meeting held, actions agreed to bring the property up to a reasonable standard and provide support.

·                Adult Safeguarding will provide ongoing support once property work is completed - Age UK will provide handover support and move towards an exit strategy.

·                Work is now progressing with resident feeling empowered and able to make decisions.

·                Repair and upgrade work in progress, via the HIA grants process.

·                Social, financial and wellbeing support being offered by Age UK and accepted by resident.

·                Support will continue from the Maidstone Self Neglect/Hoarding Multi Agency and be monitored until the property is in a satisfactory condition and resident is able to manage and enjoy her home.

·                Next meeting to be held at the end of April 2015 to review the actions

·                Future planning will then be discussed, with regard to managing  residents future vulnerability and ensure stability.