As part of the initiative, Troon-headquartered Hillhouse Group has pledged an additional £20,000 to help the Trauma Recovery Hub come to fruition. The business has supported Freedom Fighters continually since 2018.

Founded by Derek Moir, Freedom Fighters emerged from a deeply personal journey of recovery. Derek was inspired to dedicate his life to helping others find hope and healing. What began as a small support group in 2008 has since grown into a registered charity offering a wide range of initiatives, including counselling, recovery programmes, and retreats, all aimed at supporting those struggling with mental health and addiction.

The Trauma Recovery Hub, set to open early next year, will serve as a wellbeing centre and refuge for individuals seeking professional therapeutic help. Designed to address critical social issues such as mental health, addiction, family breakdown, and poverty, the hub will offer a variety of support services, including counselling, group therapy, and recovery programmes. It also aims to partner with other organisations to provide pre- and post-rehabilitation support, addiction assistance, and financial management advice.

In addition to financial support, Hillhouse has committed to creating a 12-month trainee job placement for one of Freedom Fighters’ clients each year, offering a vital pathway back into employment.

Derek Moir, founder, Freedom Fighters, said: “The generosity and support we have received from Hillhouse Group has been a total game changer. The team’s belief in our vision and willingness to step up and help, has made this project a reality.

“Our new Trauma Recovery Hub will be a place of refuge, hope, and healing for so many who feel helpless and defeated. Together, we are making a real difference in our community, and we are immensely grateful for the partnership and trust Hillhouse and our other supporters have shown us.”

Andrew Vernon, chairman, Hillhouse Group, added: “We are proud to support the incredible work of Freedom Fighters. Derek’s commitment to tackling the root causes of trauma and addiction aligns with our belief in investing in the future of our communities. The Trauma Recovery Hub will provide life-changing support to those in need, and we are pleased to play a part in this journey.

“Our hope is that by contributing both financial resources and employment opportunities, we can help individuals take the next step towards a brighter future.”

The creation of the hub has been made possible through a combination of funding sources, including £250,000 from the Scottish Government’s Local Support Fund over five years. This funding, managed by the Corra Foundation, underscores the importance of Freedom Fighters’ work, which has been rigorously evaluated and endorsed by a lived-experience panel.

The hub’s interior renovation work is currently in full swing, with contributions from local tradespeople, including James Frew for heating installation. The facility is expected to open in the coming months, offering a comprehensive programme of support to help individuals and families overcome life’s most difficult challenges.

Freedom Fighters acquired a new office space in Ardrossan in 2024. Hillhouse Group provided funding to cover the first year’s rent as well as significant contributions to support interior renovations. Additional funding was secured from organisations including the AllChurches Trust, the North Ayrshire Alcohol and Drug Partnership (NA ADP), and Asda’s Empowering Local Communities and Investing in Places and Spaces funds, which supported essential building upgrades, furnishings, and technical equipment.

Local businesses and individuals have also played a crucial role in the project’s success. Barry Kerr of Ayrshire College provided architectural drawings, and James Frew Ltd supplied tradespeople to carry out key works. Pro Ceilings and Drywall Ltd contributed to renovations, while Anderson’s Kitchens provided a kitchen, and Annandale Home Improvements arranged for the donation of new front doors from Scotia.

Safes International removed a second-storey safe door, which will be repurposed into a “safe space” counselling room. This collaborative effort from a wide range of supporters has been vital in bringing the Trauma Recovery Hub to life.