It’s winter in many parts of the world! Here we may long for the cool of Autumn while experiencing heatwave 4.0.

My thoughts, always, are with those whose homes become overwhelmingly warm inside, potentially even hotter than the external temperatures that many suffer within.

General advice in these times include:

Clothing and cooling aids

Wear loose, breathable clothing.
Use a fan, portable mini fan, or cooling towel where possible.

Keeping rooms cool

Close blinds during the day to reduce heat from sunlight.
Open windows at night when the air is cooler.

Heat safety

Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including dizziness, headaches, or nausea.
Plan strenuous activities for the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.

Please ensure that your wellbeing and safety are at the forefront of whatever you’re doing.

Also remember, that in a few weeks you’ll likely be talking about where the sun has gone…so try to enjoy it while you can in whatever way you are able as well. And always…wear sunscreen.

Everybody’s free to wear sunscreen – Baz Luhrmann

– Megan

As part of our mission to get the HUK community more engaged this year, a number of individuals have come forwards to facilitate in-person support groups around the UK.

These support groups offer participants a chance to have meaningful conversations, a non-judgemental space with peers, and the opportunity for personal breakthroughs. We cannot thank our facilitators enough for making these outcomes possible.

“I am Michaela and I am a Hoarding Support Worker for Flintshire.

Through my role, I have come to understand that not everyone is ready to have someone working directly with them in their home, and this is why a support group is another great way to offer encouragement. I also noted the lack of peer support locally. Historically I have always worked in roles where people face barriers to accessing services and I am really passionate about working with what each individual feels able to manage in the moment, doing things with someone rather than to them. More recently I have moved from a Homelessness Charity, so I am keen to ensure people are supported to remain in their homes comfortably.

Our group is a small, chatty and informal group with tea and biscuits, aiming to facilitate non-judgemental support and offering a space where people feel less alone when thinking or talking about their living conditions. Based at the top of Mold town centre, we have the whole space to ourselves which allows privacy and opportunities for people to speak freely if they wish.

I am able to support with referrals into the Hoarding Support Service or other services if required but this is not obligatory.”