I am often asked to describe my work, and my quick answer is 'intelligent tea drinking'. I work through active listening, by finding out what really drives and inspires clients, and supporting them to achieve their aims. This can be done with practical and physical help, through positive motivation input and by teaching new habits.
In 2014 I founded Glasgow's peer-to-peer support group Clutter Chat; a group for those with chronic clutter and problematic hoarding habits. In 2020 it became a Scottish Charity SC050222 and you can find out more about its work here https://clutterchat.co.uk/ .
Along side working with clients in their homes and on-line, I speak publicly on clutter. Before becoming a professional declutterer I taught master's students at The University of Kent the art of Visual Anthropology. Now I talk at charity events, teach clutter clearing courses with my Glasgow colleagues Elaine Mckinlay and Clara Moore (both APDO members). In this interview on BBC Radio 4 I talk about Clutter Chat. It's with Peter White on BBC Radio 4's consumer affairs program You and Yours. You'll find me 12 minutes in: You and Yours 12.30pm Friday 7th June 2019 .
Specialisms
Public Speaking
Along side working with clients in their homes and virtually, I speak publicly on clutter. Before becoming a professional declutterer I taught master's students at The University of Kent the art of Visual Anthropology Now I talk at charity events, teach clutter clearing courses with my Glasgow colleagues Elaine Mckinlay and Clara Moore (both APDO members).
Hoarding behaviour
In 2014 I founded a meetup called Clutter Chat. It's a supportive group for those with chronic clutter and problematic hoarding habits. In 2020 it became a Scottish Charity SC050222 and you can find out more about its work here https://clutterchat.co.uk/ .The problem seemed insurmountable. But along came Zem. With consideration, understanding and expertise, she moved me and a few precious belongings into my new nursing home room. Thank you Zem!
The workshop group was a very non threatening experience due to Zem's warmth and acceptance. I liked that there were so many suggestions about how much of our clutter could be recycled.
Thank you so much Zem for your input in decluttering my 'stuff'. I honestly couldn't have done it without the help of the workshops and Clutter Chat!