Red Squirrel campaign to support people living with hoarding

Red Squirrel OT CIC has launched a Crowdfunder to deliver the Buried in Treasures course, a 16-week support programme for those unable to access help due to financial barriers.

The course is centred around cognitive behavioural therapy and helps people understand the emotional drivers behind hoarding, develop decision-making skills and take practical steps toward change in a supportive setting.

Brigitte Hoare, director of Red Squirrel OT CIC, left, has said the course changes lives. (Image: Red Squirrel OT CIC)

The programme has a strong track record, with more than 70 per cent of participants reporting improved thoughts, feelings and behaviours in relation to their possessions.

A previous participant from Portsmouth said: "Coming to Buried in Treasures on a weekly basis has been so helpful. I learnt a lot throughout the course.

"Everyone was so friendly and supportive, as we discussed and shared our thoughts and options."

The campaign aims to raise £6,000 to cover course costs for people who would otherwise be unable to take part, funding trained facilitators, venue hire and materials.

Brigitte Hoare, director of Red Squirrel OT CIC, said: "Hoarding disorder is often misunderstood as messiness or poor choices, when in reality it is frequently linked to trauma, grief, loss and anxiety."

"This course doesn’t just change homes, it changes lives."

Visit crowdfunder.co.uk/p/help-bring-hope-to-people-living-with-hoarding-dis or Red Squirrel OT CIC website to donate.