Hampshire-based charity launches fundraising campaign to support people living with hoarding disorder
A new fundraising campaign has been launched by Red Squirrel OT CIC, to offer the Buried in Treasures Course, an evidence-based support programme for people living with a hoarding disorder, to Hampshire residents who are unable to access help due to financial barriers.
Hoarding disorder is a recognised mental health condition affecting over one million people across the UK. Based on national prevalence estimates (approximately 2–6% of the population), it is estimated that between 35,000 and 100,000 people in Hampshire may be living with hoarding-related difficulties.
Despite this, specialist support remains extremely limited.
The Buried in Treasures Course is a 16-week, structured group programme grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). It supports participants to understand the emotional drivers behind hoarding, develop practical decision-making skills, and take manageable steps towards change in a compassionate, non-judgemental environment.
Evidence shows the programme is highly effective, with over 70% of participants reporting significant improvements in how they think, feel and behave around their possessions.
A previous course participant from Portsmouth shared: “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 total cost to deliver the course is £375 per person, covering trained facilitators, venue hire and specialist materials. The campaign aims to raise £6,000 to offer fully funded or part-funded places to people who would otherwise be excluded.
Brigitte Hoare, Director of Red Squirrel OT CIC, stresses: “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.”
Adding: “In addition to providing people with the tools to change. It also ensures people living with a hoarding disorder feel understood, less alone, and hopeful for the first time in years.”
The Crowdfunder is now live, and members of the public are encouraged to donate or share the campaign to help ensure no one in Hampshire has to face hoarding disorder alone. Visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/help-bring-hope-to-people-living-with-hoarding-dis or Red Squirrel OT CIC website, help4hoarders.co.uk to donate today.