Beyond the Hoard

Pershore Rotary recently welcomed Christine Searl, CEO and Founding Director of Beyond the Hoard CIC, who gave an inspiring and informative talk about supporting people living with hoarding behaviours.

Christine is a neurodivergent hoarding practitioner with lived experience, bringing both professional expertise and personal understanding to her work. She founded Beyond the Hoard CIC in May 2025 after recognising the need for dedicated hoarding behaviour support across Worcestershire.

What is hoarding?
Hoarding involves acquiring and keeping possessions to the point where homes, gardens, garages or workspaces can no longer be used as intended. It is often linked to:

• Traumatic life experiences
• Mental health conditions
• Long-term physical health conditions
• Chronic disorganisation
• Neurodiversity and
• Acquired brain injuries

 Understanding the reasons behind hoarding behaviours is the first step towards helping people regain control of their homes and their lives.

Did you know?
Hoarding disorder has been recognised by the World Health Organization as a mental health condition since 2018.

The NHS estimates that 2–5% of the population live with hoarding disorder. In Worcestershire, this could mean between 12,000 and 30,000 people are affected.

Christine shared:
"It's important to break down the barriers and stigma attached to the condition. Our approach is supportive and non-judgemental."

Beyond the Hoard CIC provides:

• Support Groups – Free sessions for people experiencing hoarding behaviours.
• In-Home Support – Personalised decluttering and sorting assistance.
• Training & Workshops – Professional training for organisations and community groups.
• Research Projects – Helping improve understanding and future support.

Support groups are currently available in:

Evesham, Kidderminster, Pershore and Worcester

For more information or to access support, email: info@beyondthehoardcic.co.uk