Additional information
by Jo Cooke (Author)
If you are living with, are close to, or are yourself someone who is hoarding, you'll know
that the disorder goes far deeper than most people realise, affecting the whole family and
presenting huge challenges to the physical, mental, emotional and even financial
wellbeing of anyone involved.
Jo Cooke is Director of one of the UK's leading support services for people affected by
hoarding and clutter, and has written this sensitive and empathetic book to help anyone
experiencing hoarding difficulties. She gives insight into Hoarding Disorder - explaining
what it is and, importantly, what it isn't - and what may trigger hoarding. There are
strategies for how to assess the scale of situation and lay the groundwork to address it,
and insights into who can help and how they can do it.
An 8 step-plan gives practical steps to tackle the hoarding, supported by suggestions for
what to do with the 'stuff', and advice on safeguarding - as well as techniques to support
the hoarder as they attempt to stay clutter-free. There is space in the book for individuals
and their own stories of hoarding, giving an empowering voice to people affected by the
condition, and replacing the morbid curiosity that often accompanies it.
With plenty of information on resources and therapies that can help, this is a warm and
hugely practical guide that can only help anyone affected in any way by hoarding.
Author Biography
Jo Cooke is is director of Hoarding Disorders UK and an accredited member of the
Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers (APDO). Her previous career
included working for various charities and the Civil Service.
