Data – to be released today by the Catholic Community Services NSW/ ACT Hunter – show that 52 per cent of their clients live with other people, while 71 per cent of all dwellings affected propose health and safety risks.

More than 60 per cent of clients’ homes propose a fire risk.

The organisation is now calling for funding to establish a project to help children of those suffering with the disorder.

“This is a real issue and there are a lot of kids at risk,” Hunter region co-­ordinator Tony Scully said.

He said most situations involved a ­single parent with a child.

“In this case, not only is there a lot of emotional pressure on the child, but there is an expectation that they will keep the place clean when the parent isn’t able to,” Mr Scully said.

CCS Hoarding and Squalor Program Manager Mercy Splitt said hoarding ­disorder is one of the most complex social issues facing Australia and has been diagnosed as a psychiatric condition since May 2013.

Hoarding can occur at any age across a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds, causing physical health and safety risks and putting people at risk if eviction, isolation and homelessness.

Fire and Rescue NSW has revealed that 30 per cent of fire fatalities to date this year were linked to hoarding conditions.

Mr Scully said the problem was larger than first anticipated.

“I know that every referral organisation is ready to offer us more clients, and for every client we help there are least another 10 waiting,” he said.

“Working with clients affected by hoarding and/or squalor is a slow process that takes time to build and trust.

“It is vital that we give young family members some extra support and introduce life skills, so they don’t become generational hoarders, and they can maintain their homes and live securely without the threat of fire, health risks of eviction.”