More Than Just a Mess: Jules Given Shares the Hidden Truth Behind Clutter
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In a poignant and powerful episode of the Ideal Home Show YouTube series, viewers are invited into a conversation that extends far beyond dustpans and bin bags. Jules Given, founder of MJ Cleaning Services, offers a deeply personal and revealing look into the world of extreme clutter and hoarding — and why, so often, it’s not about the stuff at all. From navigating homes where rubbish reaches ceiling height to tenderly supporting clients who feel paralysed by even the simplest household tasks, Jules brings a rare blend of grit, empathy, and insight to her work. Her message is clear: mess isn’t just a cleaning problem — it’s often a visible expression of invisible mental health struggles.
The episode moves through key moments in Jules’ journey, tracing her path from a school cleaner to the compassionate force behind MJ Cleaning Services. She reflects on the emotional toll clutter can take on a person’s wellbeing, explaining how hoarding behaviours are frequently linked to trauma, anxiety, and depression. “It’s not just a mess,” she says. “It’s someone’s mental health.”
Jules doesn’t just share stories — she offers solutions. Viewers will find practical advice on how to approach a loved one who may be overwhelmed by their space, why offering support is more powerful than judgment, and what to do if you yourself feel stuck in your home. She also points to key resources and explains how sometimes, the first step is simply having a chat.
What makes this episode especially resonant is Jules’ ability to balance difficult realities with hope. With each story and each client, she demonstrates how dignity, patience, and kindness can help restore not only a home but a sense of control and peace.
To watch Jules’ powerful story and other episodes exploring the real lives behind our homes, head over to The Ideal Home Show YouTube Channel and hit Subscribe. Each episode unpacks the emotions, creativity, and community at the heart of how we live — from interiors inspiration to the stories that often go untold.
And while you’re there, don’t miss your chance to enter our exclusive competition to win a £1000 Cox & Cox voucher* — perfect for creating a home that supports your wellbeing inside and out.
This isn’t just about cleaning. It’s about compassion. Subscribe today to be part of the conversation.
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