The Clarke family consists of mum Sarah, dad Jon, and children Timeon, 14, Owen, 9 and Caitlin, 11.
Sarah is an avid crafts enthusiast, with an abundance of yarn, beads and other art materials in her home. Currently, her younger children, Owen and Caitlin, share a room, and Sarah’s crafts mean that a room that could be used for one of them can’t be.
The clutter of books, board games and toys in their house means making space for the family to sit and chat together is incredibly hard.
Both Sarah and Jon are deaf, and mum Sarah finds making crafts a way for her to destress from everyday life.
“I like making things, it makes me feel good, creativity is therapeutic, it makes me calmer and relaxed.”
“My mum holds everything dear to her heart” says Timeon.
The team found an array of unfinished craft items all over the house, including an unfinished crochet bag from 15 years ago.
Sarah feels a lot of guilt because she knew the time with her children was being impacted.
“I do lots with them but it doesn’t stop the guilt being real.”
Having the team come in helped her realise she had to prioritise time with the kids over her crafts.
“Children grow up faster, and my projects will always be there.”
It was this realisation which helped her to let go of half of their items.
Owen and Caitlin were able to have their own rooms, as Sarah’s crafts were compacted into the living room in a large cupboard.
After decluttering, Jon says there has been a massive improvement in their family life and now they are able to spend quality time together to sit and chat.
