How assisted clearance differs from standard clearance
In a standard clearance, the family or executor briefs us once and we get on with it. In an assisted clearance, the resident remains the decision-maker but delegates the execution. We agree categories in writing before we start — what is being kept, what is being donated, what is being disposed of, what is being set aside for review later. We then work to those categories without bringing decisions back to the resident on items that fit clearly within them.
The pre-clearance walkthrough
Every assisted clearance starts with a walkthrough — typically two hours, room by room, with the resident and the lead supervisor. We write down what is being kept, what is being donated, what is being disposed of, what is being set aside. The resident reviews the written list before signing it. The list becomes our working brief. Items not in the list are flagged during the clearance and held back for a second decision.
The resident's right to pause
At any point during an assisted clearance the resident can pause the work, change a decision, or extend the scope. We absorb that without complaint. The price doesn't change because a resident decides to keep an extra item, and we don't bill for delays caused by changes of mind. The fundamental premise is that the resident is in charge.
When assisted clearance is the right choice
Common cases: an elderly resident downsizing into supported accommodation who wants help but not loss of control. A survivor of abuse returning to a family property to handle the clearance themselves but with practical support. A resident in recovery from alcoholism or addiction whose space needs resetting but who wants to direct the change. An adult coming out of a long mental-health episode who needs help getting their flat back to a habitable state.
Coordination with families
Assisted clearance often works better when the wider family is involved — a daughter who lives away but wants to be on a video call during the resident's walkthrough, a brother who can come for the donation review. We are comfortable coordinating multi-party decisions where everyone agrees the resident's decisions are final.
Frequently asked questions
How is assisted clearance priced?
The same as our standard service, with no premium for the additional consultation time. The walkthrough is part of the quote.
Can the resident be present throughout?
Yes, in another room or in the same room — whatever they prefer. Many residents prefer to be present in the morning for the first hour and then step out for the rest of the day.
What if the resident loses capacity partway through a project?
We pause the work immediately and revert to the best-interests framework, working with the safeguarding lead or the LPA holder to determine how to proceed.
Can you assist with sorting items before disposal?
Yes. A common pattern: the resident wants help triaging what is in the loft or the back bedroom. We bring items down, lay them out, and the resident decides. The pace is the resident's pace.
Will you challenge a resident who is keeping too much?
No. We are not therapists and it is not our place to challenge a resident's decisions about their own property. Where the safeguarding lead believes the resident is at risk of re-accumulation, that conversation is for the safeguarding team.