Singapore's 31-strong NEAT alliance tackles rising hoarding crisis with unified support

A new initiative to tackle hoarding in Singapore has brought together 31 organisations under one coordinated effort. Launched in January 2025, the New Environment Action Team (NEAT) aims to address the rising number of cases with a unified approach. Officials are now urging the public to report concerns through proper channels instead of sharing images on social media.

Before NEAT, agencies worked separately, often struggling to provide consistent support. The lack of coordination meant hoarders faced fragmented help, with gaps between mental health treatment and community assistance. Now, the initiative ensures smoother transitions between different types of care.

The problem has grown significantly in recent years. Active hoarding cases nearly doubled from 253 in December 2021 to 450 by June 2023. Earlier data from 2015 to 2024 showed annual figures averaging 200 to 300 cases, with a spike to around 350 during the pandemic in 2020.

Experts stress that hoarding is not about laziness or poor choices. It often links to deeper issues like trauma, attachment difficulties, or mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. People with hoarding tendencies may struggle with planning, organising, and making decisions.

NEAT members are calling for more public understanding. They want to move away from stigmatising labels and encourage empathy instead. The long-term plan involves regular check-ins, repeated decluttering efforts, and ongoing community support to help individuals manage the condition.

The initiative marks a shift from isolated efforts to a structured, society-wide response. By improving coordination between agencies, NEAT aims to provide better, more sustained help for those affected. The focus remains on reducing stigma and ensuring long-term support for individuals struggling with hoarding.