Risks associated with self-neglect

Perceptions vary about what constitutes intolerable risk or acceptable standards of risk. These vary among different people, including the adult at risk. It is important to gather information from a variety of sources before making shared multi-agency decisions about the level of risk where possible, with the adult at risk remaining central to the process. The following indicators of harm may be used to gauge the level of risk posed.

Significant Harm

• Impairment of, or an avoidable deterioration in, physical or mental health, and the impairment of physical, intellectual, emotional, social or behavioural development
• The individual’s life could be or is under threat
• There could be a serious, chronic and/or long-lasting impact on the individual’s health physical/emotional/psychological well-being

Fire Risk

Hoarding can pose a significant risk to both the people living in the hoarded property and those living in adjoining properties as well as emergency services personnel. Where an affected property is identified, regardless of the rating on the Clutter Image Rating scale, occupants need to be advised of the increased risk and identify a safe exit route in addition to the need for smoke and carbon monoxide detection alarms.

Appropriate professional fire safety advice must be sought, and a multi-agency approach may be required to reduce risk. This will assist County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service to respond appropriately, which may include a fire safety check as part of the multi-agency approach. Once the risks have been addressed, records must be updated.

Certain health treatments or provisions increase fire risk due to flammability, including oxygen, emollients, incontinence pads and airflow mattresses. The risk is highest for individuals who smoke.