Compassion Beyond Cleaning: My Journey into Hoarding Support and Biohazard Work

20 May, 2025

By Pamela Cowan

Compassion Beyond Cleaning: My Journey into Hoarding Support and Biohazard Work

Hello, I’m Pam, and I’ve always believed that cleaning is about more than just making things look good—it’s about helping people reclaim their space, their safety, and often, a sense of hope.

My journey into hoarding support began not with a mop and bucket, but with a deep desire to support people going through overwhelming life challenges. Over the years, I’ve worked with individuals and families who are living in cluttered, chaotic environments—not because they want to, but because life got heavy. Mental health issues, trauma, grief, and illness can all play a part, and for many, hoarding is a coping mechanism rather than a choice.

I knew I wanted to help in a way that was both practical and compassionate. That’s what led me to specialise in hoarding support and undertake professional biohazard cleaning training. This training allows me to handle difficult and potentially hazardous environments safely and thoroughly—whether it involves bodily fluids, sharps, vermin, mould, or sanitation risks. But just as important as technical skills is empathy. These are people’s homes, memories, and lives—and they deserve to be treated with dignity.

At Hobbs Cleaning Services, I combine my environmental background, customer care experience, and specialised training to provide a service that’s safe, respectful, and transformative. Whether I’m working alongside a client to sort through years of possessions or responding to a biohazard clean with urgency and care, I approach every job with compassion and professionalism.

My mission is simple: to support people in taking back control of their space and wellbeing—without judgement, and with genuine care. This isn’t just cleaning. This is healing.