 |
 |
 |
Aberdeen internet TV channel 360TV focuses on Camphill
360TV the new Aberdeen internet TV channel is to transmit a programme on Camphill with the live broadcast at 6pm on Friday, December 16. The programme will be repeated on this channel over the coming month.
|
|||
 |
|||
How the good news was broken to visitors at the Newton Dee Store and Café
Celebrity reactions to the newsI “In my travels all round the world, I’ve noticed that oft quoted ‘common sense’ is actually NOT all that common. However, in this case, common sense has prevailed and I must say I couldn’t be more delighted. I’d like to use that well known Aussie phrase in praising the Scottish parliament’s decision . . .’GOOD ON YA’!” “There are good days and there are GREAT days! Today is a great day! |
|||
|
|||
Camphill “relieved” by Minister’s announcement on AWPR route
In response to the announcement by the Minister for Transport Tavish Scott, that the route for the Deeside section of the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) will not be through the Camphill communities, Dr Stefan Geider, Camphill Medical Officer and Chairman of Save Camphill, said: “We are enormously relieved at the Minister’s decision to opt for another route for the AWPR. “After 12 years of objections, the Camphill community and Newton Dee and the Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools are thankful that they can focus on their work with vulnerable children and adults, rather than fighting for their existence. “This has been a long and stressful campaign for everyone involved, not least the residents and pupils in the two Camphill communities immediately concerned. “What has sustained us all throughout this campaign has been the outstanding support we have had. The backing we have had from the local community in Aberdeen and from throughout the UK and around the world, has been simply incredible. “This has included the many thousands of messages of support locally and thousands of letters sent to the authorities objecting to the proposed route. There have also been many events, ranging from art exhibitions to concerts and the most thoughtful donations made in support of our campaign costs. “Most recently we had 25 professionals from around the world and 46 business leaders writing to the First Minister urging that the work of Camphill should not be jeopardised. “We have also been very fortunate to have many politicians and experts who have supported us along with the high-profile personalities who helped to raise awareness of our plight by giving us their backing.” The Save Camphill campaign was launched in February 2004 when residents expressed frustration that the then ten years of formal objections to the proposed route had left their interests not fully heard or understood. The issue was debated in the Scottish Parliament in June 2004. Among its supporters are Newsnight presenter Jeremy Paxman, TV personalities Rolf Harris, Lorraine Kelly, Timmy Mallett, Neil Fox and Michaela Strachan, plus actor Trudie Goodwin and best-selling author Ian Rankin. Timmy Mallett and The Bill actor Trudie Goodwin both have relatives who live in the Aberdeen communities, while Ian Rankin has a special understanding of the difficulties the communities face as his younger son has Angelman Syndrome. The Camphill communities in Aberdeen are the centre of inspiration for an international movement that now has around 100 centres in 21 countries worldwide. Camphill began in Aberdeen in 1939 when Dr Karl König and his followers sought refuge in the city from the Nazi regime in Austria. |
|||
|
|||
|
Business leaders say “no” to Murtle
Prominent members of the North-east business community have joined forces to refute the suggestion that the business community is united in wanting the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) to go through the Camphill communities in Bieldside, Aberdeen.
| |||
|
|||
|
Autism authorities endorse expert’s findings on Camphill and AWPR
The National Autistic Society (NAS) and the Scottish Society for Autism have both endorsed the findings of Professor Roy Brown, an international expert on disability matters, regarding the impact of the proposed Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) on the Camphill special needs communities in Aberdeen’s Bieldside. Supporting Professor Brown’s findings, Greig McNeish, Director of the NAS Autism Accreditation scheme, said: “People with autism, particularly those with severe autism and challenging needs, require a constant and secure environment in which to develop. The current environment at Camphill is an ideal situation for such a service. But the introduction of a main road would not only be putting residents in danger but would also have adverse affects to their health and wellbeing. “The NAS fully supports interim findings of Prof. Roy Brown into the possible effects of the road on the Camphill community. The NAS has voiced its concerns to Camphill and the Scottish Executive and has offered its expertise in the ongoing consultation process.” John McDonald, Chief Executive of the Scottish Society for Autism, commented in endorsing Professor Brown’s findings: “I note the interim statement from Professor Brown and would support the findings that he has arrived at in terms of our experience of the impact of the type of services offered at Camphill.
“Our experience would be that disruption to such services can have a damaging and disruptive impact on those who are most vulnerable. In relation to those who have autism the effects of destabilisation are often magnified as a result of their autism, thereby exacerbating difficulties of those who are most vulnerable. “We would be very concerned at the potential impact of radical change in the environment provided by Camphill on those who need stability and routine in their daily lives. “The significance of that impact on those who are vulnerable needs to be better understood by those considering the proposed route of the road.” At the announcement of his interim findings Professor Brown stated that his concerns had grown during the nine months of his studies and that the road was likely to cause “major regression” in behaviour. He added that this was likely to have a severe impact on the families. “I think we would be taking a terrible risk if we put this road through. For some families it would be disastrous,” Professor Brown said. “They would have to search to find new places and new solutions for their children. It’s not worth the risk. An alternative route should be selected as the risks are considerable”. The pupils at Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools all have complex special needs and some come from deprived and neglected backgrounds. The proposed road would involve the demolition of part of the school, before passing within 100 metres of the children’s residences and 50 metres from the fields in which special needs adults work.
| |||
|
|||
New parliamentary questions about Camphill
EDUCATION |
|||
|
|||
|
International expert’s growing concern
Professor Roy Brown, an international expert on disability and quality of life, has explained his growing concerns about the impact of the proposed Murtle route of the AWPR through the Camphill special needs communities. | |||
|
|||
|
International experts oppose
Murtle route in open letter to First Minister
An open letter from 25 experts in education, medicine, psychology,
pscychiatry and social work has been sent to the First Minister,
Jack McConnell.
«back
| |||
|
|||
|
Series of parliamentary
questions probes issues over Camphill route
MSPs have asked a series of questions in the Scottish Parliament,
probing some of the key issues surrounding the proposed route
of the AWPR through Camphill: | |||
|
|||
|
Cross party parliamentary
group on autism expresses concern
The Scottish Parliament's Cross Party Group on Autistic Spectrum
Disorder has written to Minister for Transport, Tavish Scott,
following their meeting with the delegation from Camphill on September
7. | |||
|
|||
|
Camphill meets MSPs to
discuss concerns
Around 40 residents, pupils and parents, representing the 300 people who live and work in the Camphill communities in Aberdeen, have met with members of the Scottish Parliament's cross party group on autistic spectrum disorders as part of their 12-year battle against a motorway-standard road which could be driven through the grounds of their community. Concern is growing as Minister for Transport Tavish Scott is expected to announce the chosen option for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral route this autumn. If he chooses the "preferred" Murtle route, it will result in demolition of part of the community, before passing
Commenting on the meeting, Dr Stefan Geider, the Camphill medical officer and chairman of the Save Camphill campaign said: "We are absolutely delighted that the cross-party group on autistic spectrum disorders agreed to meet with us. The group's stated aim is 'to campaign to highlight the needs of those affected by autistic spectrum disorder', so we are hoping that they may be able to help us to express our concerns to the Transport Minister and the Scottish Executive. "It has been encouraging to hear the First Minister say that government has a duty to intervene whenever vulnerable people are at risk and to hear the calls in the Scottish Parliament for better provision for those with autistic spectrum disorders. Our message is that, if these words are to have substance, the threat hanging over Camphill must surely be lifted. "The therapeutic environment, which is essential to our work with children and adults who are abnormally sensitive and disturbed by noise, would be shattered by this motorway. As an organisation Camphill has spent more than 60 years fighting for the rights of disabled people. If the Murtle route is chosen, this particular fight will inevitably continue." Speaking after the meeting, Nanette Milne, one of the MSPs who met the delegation, said: "I do not wish to delay the progress of this important road around the city, but valid local concerns are such that I feel alternatives to this corridor will have to be looked at. The destruction of and damage to the community of Camphill under the current route is unacceptable". Save Camphill's position has been supported by the Chairman of
the National Autism Society, Tony Kay, the director of Autism
Quality Programmes, Greig McNeish, and international autism expert
Dr Lorna Wing, who have attacked the road plans. | |||
|
|||
|
Camphill danced the night
away with Zuba
Camphill residents, co-workers, campaigners,
families and supporters all danced the night away at a benefit
concert organised in aid of the Save Camphill campaign on Sunday
night. The concert gave all those who have worked so hard throughout
a long campaign the chance to take a night off and celebrate their
efforts together. With great performances from Freida Morrison, Amy
Sawers, Paddy Rasta and headline band Zuba, the night was a chance
for all to come together and let their hair down.
The dance floor was lively as many of the Camphill residents enjoyed a variety of music, which included the relaxed sound of Freida Morrison, acoustic soul from Amy Sawers, reggae beats from Paddy Rasta and the exciting, eclectic and energetic sound of Zuba. Zuba filled the venue with an original and spirited sound that was well received by the crowd. To add to this, before Zuba began their set, they encouraged some of the Camphill residents to join them on the stage enticing loud cheers from the crowd. Neil Walker, a Camphill supporter who attended the evening said "the venue was buzzing with a strong crowd, good music and an atmosphere where everyone was relaxed and free of all their worries for one night. "It was great to see so many residents and supporters come together and celebrate even at such an intense time. The solidarity and commitment from all those involved reflects the strength of the Camphill communities" With the decision from the Scottish Executive believed to be due in September, the campaign to Save Camphill from being overrun by the proposed Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route is at its peak. Dr Stefan Geider believed the concert was a chance for everyone involved to come together and celebrate. Dr Geider, Camphill spokesperson said: "Everyone involved in the campaign for the last two years has worked so very hard to object to the bypass running through Camphill, it was time they got something in return. "It was great to see everyone so upbeat and positive. The crowd were just brilliant; so energetic. I was also touched to see so many supporters and neighbours from the Bieldside area had made the effort to come down and show their support and enjoy the night as a community." Organisers said the concert was a sell out and the money raised
will help greatly in continuing the Save Camphill Campaign. They
also wanted to thank all those involved for all their help in making
it such a memorable night. | |||
|
|||
|
MSP tables questions to
executive ahead of Transport Minister Camphill visit
Dr Nanette Milne, Conservative MSP for Northeast
Scotland has tabled the following questions to the Scottish
Executive ahead of a visit to Camphill by the newly appointed
Minister for Transport, Tavish Scott MSP on 1st September.
Nanette Milne: To ask the Scottish Executive how it responds to the opinion of the Chairman of the National Autistic Society that there can be little doubt that the Murtle option for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route "would jeopardise the work of Scotland's centres of excellence for some of the most vulnerable members of our society". Nanette Milne: To ask the Scottish Executive if it is aware of the opinion of Dr Lorna Wing MD, FRCPsych, one of the leading experts in autistic spectrum disorders. Regarding the Murtle option for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, she states that "the noise made during the construction of a bypass and the continual noise when it is in use, would make life intolerable for many Camphill residents". Nanette Milne: To ask the Scottish Executive how they respond to (a) the suggestion contained in Professor Hogg's report into the impact of the Murtle option for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route that the special needs children at Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools be desensitised to the proposed road noise by participating in the creation of a 3-metre noise barrier and (b) the view of the autism experts who carried out an Autism Accreditation appraisal on the school that such a suggestion is "naive and demonstrates a lack of true understanding in the nature of autistic spectrum disorders in relation to sensory issues". Nanette Milne: To ask the Scottish Executive if they are aware that (a) many of the special needs children and adults living in the Aberdeen Camphill communities suffer from hyperacusis (an abnormal sensitivity to noise) and (b) that there are currently no acceptable noise levels set for special needs individuals. In view of this, how do they propose to adapt the DMRB methodology for noise measurement and assessment to give a realistic assessment of noise impact on the proposed Murtle option for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route on these vulnerable individuals? Nanette Milne: To ask the Scottish Executive if it
has assessed the possible delay and associated costs if the Murtle
option for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route is selected and the
Camphill communities follow through their legal advice which
indicates there may be a human rights issue that the community could
pursue right up to European Court level. | |||
|
|||
|
Top Scottish band Zuba to
headline Save Camphill Benefit Concert One of Scotland's most exciting bands, Zuba is to headline the Save Camphill Benefit Concert at the Lemon Tree on Sunday, August 28 at 7pm. With Freida Morrison, Amy Sawers and Paddy Rasta also on the bill, the concert is set to be a night of eclectic music that will add impetus to the Save Camphill Campaign as it waits to hear the decision from the Scottish Executive on the road plans.
Zuba are Scotland's leading multi-cultural maestros of dance music. Zuba have fused the rhythms from the band-members' different backgrounds into a harmonious musical celebration of 21st century cultural diversity. The music is an exciting mix of West African pop, Spanish soul, Hebridean hi-life, Caribbean folk and Latin American rhythms. The musicians that make up Zuba were born in countries as widespread as Liberia, Scotland, The Basque Country, France and Uganda. Formed three years ago by lead singer Jerry Boweh, for a one-off concert in aid of Scottish International Relief, Glasgow-based Zuba stayed together to take their musical vision to a wider audience. They have supported top acts such as Femi Kuti, Papa Wemba, Salsa Celtica, Martyn Bennett, Kid Creole, Transglobal Underground and many others along the way. Zuba have had major appearances at the Brampton, Larmer Tree, Towersey, Edinburgh and Celtic Connections Festivals. They were also one of the five "unsigned band" finalists competing to play on the Jazz World Stage at this year's Glastonbury festival; proving they have a well-deserved reputation as a phenomenally exciting live band. Bob Harris of BBC Radio 2 said Zuba are "absolutely superb!" and the Daily Record reported Zuba as "One of Britain's best world music acts". Zuba will be in Aberdeen for one night only to support the Save Camphill Campaign and celebrate the efforts of so many campaign supporters. Concert organiser, Brian Gilligan said "The night promises to be an energetic one that allows supporters of the Save Camphill campaign to put aside their concerns about the future of the two special needs communities for one night." With Freida Morrison, BBC presenter and singer/songwriter, Amy Sawers, an exceptional local talent and Paddy Rasta, a local reggae band, all set to support Zuba, organisers hope the night will raise further awareness for the campaign as well as being a night to remember. As the crucial decision regarding the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route looms, organisers have spoke of the importance of keeping morale levels high, as well as continuing to increase public awareness of the issue. It is now almost 12 years since the Camphill communities first submitted their objections to the proposed route, which would drive a near motorway-standard road through the two Camphill communities in which more than 300 people live and work. The Camphill Movement, which has now extended to more
than 90 centres in 21 countries, began at the Camphill estate in
Aberdeen in 1939, when Dr Karl König and his followers escaped the
Nazi regime and set up their pioneering community for children with
learning disabilities. | |||
|
|||
|
World expert on autism
urges road reroute away from Camphill With a route announcement for the proposed Aberdeen bypass expected shortly, Dr Lorna Wing, a world expert on autism, has spoken of her objection to the proposed Murtle option. On this routing the near motorway-standard road would cut through Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools' estate, within 100 metres of the bedrooms of severely learning disabled and autistic children. It would then pass less than 50 metres from fields in which adults with special needs work. Between the two Camphill communities, more than 300 people live and work, among them are 200 children and adults with special needs. Dr Wing, who has 40 years' experience as a researcher and clinician in the field of autism and related disorders, is urging Tavish Scott, the Minister for Transport to opt for a different route: "I am particularly concerned because of the threat to the Camphill communities' work with children and adults with autistic disorders. A significant number of the residents have these disorders and I fully endorse the concerns about the route of the bypass. "The Camphill communities provide an ideal environment for children and adults with autistic disorders, who have special needs. One of their specific requirements is an environment providing peace and tranquillity." Dr Wing explains that many have 'hyperacusis' - an abnormal acuteness of hearing - and can become distressed and disturbed when subjected to loud sounds such as that from traffic or construction work. Dr Wing points out: "The noise that will be made during the construction of a bypass and the continual noise when it is in use would make life intolerable for many Camphill residents. "Another problem arises from the fact that people with autistic disorders have no sense of danger. While some would be frightened by the noise of traffic, others might be fascinated by the passing cars and would try to get onto the road. Some, especially in childhood are adept at finding their way around, through, or over any barriers, so they would not be deterred by safety fences." Dr Wing's comments follow on from the comments of the four experts who carried out the review for Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools' Autism Accreditation, which recognises the standard of its facilities for pupils with autistic disorders. Their report urged an alternative route for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, emphasising the "very special needs of people with autism" and adding: "The review team are also aware of a report suggesting that the children with autism become actively involved in such a project in order to desensitise them to the effects of the planned route. It is the belief of the review team that this report, at best, shows a naivety into the complexity of autistic spectrum disorder and, at worst, a total misunderstanding, or disregard, to the effects of the disorder upon individuals." Dr Lorna Wing Dr Wing currently works part-time as Consultant Psychiatrist at the NAS Centre for Social and Communication Disorders at Elliot House, Bromley in Kent. Dr Wing is the author of many books and academic
papers. She is particularly well known as the author of Asperger's
Syndrome: a Clinical Account, a 1981 academic paper that popularised
the research of Hans Asperger and introduced the term Asperger's
Syndrome. | |||
|
|||
|
Benefit Concert to boost
Save Camphill Supporters of the Save Camphill campaign plan to put aside their concerns about the future of the two special needs communities for one night, with a Save Camphill Benefit Concert. The organisers are currently lining up bands to play at the event, which is intended to give a boost to the campaign as the crucial decision looms. The Save Camphill Benefit Concert will take place at the Lemon Tree in Aberdeen on Sunday, August 28, starting at 7pm. Tickets costing £7 (£5 concessions) go on sale from tomorrow at the Lemon Tree. Dr Stefan Geider, Camphill Medical Officer, explains the reasons behind the concert: "This has been a long and very stressful campaign for all of us. It is now almost 12 years since the Camphill communities first submitted their objections to the proposed route, which would drive a near motorway-standard road through the two Camphill communities in which more than 300 people live and work. "Since we launched the Save Camphill campaign in February last year, public support has been overwhelming. We hope that the benefit concert will be a great boost for everyone and that supporters will come along in considerable numbers. Those residents who can, will be also be able to take part and celebrate the fantastic support we have had from the community in Aberdeen and, quite literally, from around the world. "We are obviously hoping that we have been successful in highlighting that the road would inevitably damage the quality of life for the 200 vulnerable adults and children in the Camphill communities. But, we have to be prepared for the fact that the campaign might have to continue. "For more than 65 years, Camphill has stood up for the rights of children and adults with special needs. If the Scottish Executive decide that the road should go through Camphill, we will have to rally all our support to continue to fight, through the courts if necessary." Full details of the concert will be
posted on this website and updated between now and the concert
date. | |||
|
|||
|
Best selling author
supports Save Camphill The UK's number one best-selling crime author, Ian Rankin has spoken out in support of the Save Camphill campaign. Ian refers to his personal experience of coping with a child with special needs as the basis for his support for the Save Camphill campaign.
Speaking from his own experience, Ian Rankin explained: "Our younger son Kit has multiple problems caused by a rare genetic condition called Angelman Syndrome. We were told Kit would probably never talk. He would in all likelihood have seizures and his motor skills would develop very slowly. "I know myself, since Kit was born, I've been introduced into a world that remains closed to so many, which is populated by wonderful and heroic carers, wonderful parents and wonderful people with all manner of disabilities. "Until you have been through it, you will never understand the commitment, patience and unconditional care that are provided by these charities. The Camphill communities and others like them provide more than just outstanding care for those with special needs though, it is a sanctuary for families too. "To invade a community like Camphill and potentially
damage the lives of so many individuals, families, and children,
seems tragic." | |||
|
|||
|
Michaela Strachan joins
celebrity support for Save Camphill Popular TV presenter Michaela Strachan has joined the growing number of celebrities supporting the Save Camphill campaign. Michaela, who is now best known as a presenter of wildlife programmes, began her TV career on the children's programme The Wide Awake Club.
"I was very much saddened to hear that the Camphill communities in Aberdeen are being threatened by the proposed Aberdeen by-pass. I know of the excellent work carried out by the Camphill communities in many countries around the world and that it all started in Aberdeen. "I admire the way that everyone at Camphill is valued as an individual bringing something to the community. The way that the communities are made up of extended family units means that special needs children and adults have a network of physical and emotional support from the family and the community around them. "I just cannot comprehend how it was even considered feasible to drive a new dual-carriageway between two vulnerable communities in which more than 300 people live and work. To suggest it should be built less than a hundred metres from the bedrooms of severely learning disabled and autistic children is almost unbelievable." Michaela joins Save Camphill's other celebrity supporters Rolf Harris, Jeremy Paxman, Lorraine Kelly, Timmy Mallett, Neil Fox and Trudie Goodwin in opposing the demolition of part of special needs Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools in Aberdeen's Bieldside. The proposed route would directly affect 200 children and adults with special needs. Michaela Strachan's support for Save Camphill comes less than a week after four leading experts in autism criticised a report into the effects of the proposed route saying it "at best, shows naivety into the complexity of autistic spectrum disorder and, at worst, a total misunderstanding, or disregard, to the effects of the disorder upon individuals". The Save Camphill campaign was launched in February last year to carry forward Camphill's 11 years of objection to the proposed route of the AWPR. Camphill began in Aberdeen in 1939 when Karl König
and his followers escaped the Nazi regime and set up their
pioneering community in Aberdeen. Camphill's Aberdeen communities
are now at the centre of the international Camphill Movement, which
has 90 centres in 21 countries worldwide. | |||
|
|||
|
Autism experts urge
alternative to Camphill by-pass route A team of autism experts has urged a re-think of the proposed Murtle route for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, which would cut through the Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools' Murtle Estate. The review team were assessing the Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools for the award of Autism Accreditation, which recognises the schools' standards of excellence in provision for people with autistic spectrum disorders. In their report the experts state: "The review team believe that the plans for the new route and the resulting effects of such a bypass, along with the disruption caused by the works carried out, can only have a detrimental effect on the quality of life for children with an autistic spectrum disorder within Camphill. "The review team are also aware of a report suggesting that the children with autism become actively involved in such a project in order to desensitise them to the effects of the planned route. It is the belief of the review team that this report, at best, shows a naivety into the complexity of autistic spectrum disorder and, at worst, a total misunderstanding, or disregard, to the effects of the disorder upon individuals." The Autism Accreditation scheme, instigated by the National Autistic Society, with support from the Department of Health, is the first detailed and comprehensive series of standards in the world for the education and care of people with autistic spectrum disorders. Commenting on Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools achievement of Autism Accreditation, Vincent D'Agostino, the schools' co-ordinator said: "The award of Autism Accreditation is the culmination of eight years of effort by the volunteers and teaching staff within Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools. The school now joins St Andrews School in Inverurie as one of only two centres in the North of Scotland to hold the Autism Accreditation. "Our achievement of the standards of excellence required by Autism Accreditation is a further step on the process of continuous improvement, which was started by Camphill's founder Dr Karl König and his colleagues when they established their first community on the Camphill estate in Aberdeen in 1939. "We are concerned about the ability of Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools to continue more than six decades of this work, should the road pass through our estate. That is why we are determined to do everything we can to stop it." Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools is an independent voluntary school, located on three estates on the outskirts of Aberdeen. Providing residential and day places, it caters for pupils aged three to 19 who have complex special needs, including autism. The school's Murtle Estate lies in the path of the preferred corridor for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, which would involve the demolition of part of the estate and would pass within 100 metres of the bedrooms of some of the children. It would also sever the links between the school and Camphill's Newton Dee community for special needs adults. The Save Camphill campaign, launched in February last
year, takes forward Camphill's 11-year opposition to this proposed
route, which would affect more than three hundred people who live
and work in Camphill's Murtle and Newton Dee estates. | |||
|
|||
|
The Herald feature on
Camphill concerns The Herald today published a full-page feature looking at the concerns of the Camphill communities and the fact that the Murtle route would impact on more than 300 people who live and work in the two communities. "Wandering round the Camphill communities, it's
possible to encounter countless instances where tranquillity seems
to be a basic need," writes Abigail Wild. "One autistic girl is
facing a wall. The stress of putting on her shoes is enough; a lorry
sounding its horn might be too much." | |||
|
|||
|
Rolf Harris adds his
support for Save Camphill
Rolf is a friend of fellow TV personality Timmy Mallett, whose brother Martin has been a resident at the Camphill Newton Dee community in Aberdeen since 1981. Commenting on his reasons for supporting the Save Camphill campaign, Rolf Harris said: "I know the Malletts - Timmy and Martin - and it's quite obvious how happy and fulfilling a life Martin has thanks to Newton Dee. I hate to think that Newton Dee and the work with the special needs kids at Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools could be damaged by a new road. "The quality of life for 200 special needs children and adults must be more important than putting a road right there!" Commenting on Rolf Harris's support, Dr Stefan Geider, Camphill Medical Officer, said: "It is great to have the support of celebrities like Rolf Harris, Jeremy Paxman, Lorraine Kelly, Timmy Mallett, Neil Fox and Trudie Goodwin as it flags up that the concern about the Murtle route through Camphill is an issue of national and, indeed, international concern. "The almost unstoppable momentum behind the Murtle route has been puzzling. Of all the routes, it would have the greatest human impact in sheer numbers alone - there are some 300 people living and working on the two Camphill Estates. That is even before you take into account that around 200 of these people have special needs. "The Murtle route not only involves demolition of part of the Camphill Rudolf Steiner School's estate, it would pass less than 100 metres from the bedrooms of severely learning disabled and autistic children and less than 50 metres from the fields where the special needs adults at Newton Dee work. "Disturbance and noise - which the rest of us can take in our stride - can trigger regressive, disruptive and sometimes extreme behaviour in people with severe learning difficulties and autism. That is why life alongside, initially, a major construction site, then six lanes of heavy traffic would be impossible. "We also have huge concerns about safety. Many of our
residents are fascinated by traffic, but unaware of danger. Fencing
off the Camphill communities would therefore be essential, but run
totally contrary to our ethos of encouraging as much independence as
possible within a safe environment. It would also destroy the
feeling of inclusion within the wider community, that has been
fostered for six decades." | |||
|
|||
|
Camphill international
conference sends letter of objection to Prime Minister, First
Minister and Transport Minister The international conference of Camphill communities, held this year in South Africa, has sent a letter of objection to the Prime Minister, the First Minister and the Transport Minister on behalf of 101 Camphill communities in 17 countries. The Camphill International Dialogue Conference, held in Hermanus, unanimously resolved to write to express their objection to the proposed routing of the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route between the Camphill communities in the Bieldside area of Aberdeen. In his letter, on behalf of all the delegates, David Trojeski, the chairman of the Camphill International Dialogue 2005, says: "The Camphill Movement has been inexistence for 66 years. The expertise gathered at this conference wishes to object, in the strongest terms, that, should his highway be completed, the welfare of the children and adults with mental and learning disabilities in the above communities will be seriously affected. "They are the most vulnerable members of our society and therefore they are the most in need of our help and support in a peaceful environment. "We earnestly request you to appeal for an alternative route for the proposed highway, so that our community will not be split." Aberdeen is where the international Camphill Movement
was founded in 1939, when Dr Karl König and his followers escaped
from the Nazi regime and set up their pioneering community. | |||
|
|||
|
Pop Idol judge is latest
celebrity to join Save Camphill campaign The Save Camphill Campaign has received a further boost in the final days of public consultation on the routing of the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route. Pop Idol Judge and former Capital Radio DJ, Neil "Dr" Fox has joined the Save Camphill Campaign, which opposes the proposed Murtle route for the AWPR through the Camphill communities in Bieldside, Aberdeen.
"I have known Timmy's family for years and I know that the environment provided by Camphill has had a marvellous affect on everyone that lives there," says Neil Fox. "Clearly, Camphill is a very special place and the residents and co-workers deserve to be treated with a great deal of respect." "I have always been saddened at how in this country we never seem to look after, care for and protect our most vulnerable members of society particularly well and I hope and pray that the powers that be will be swayed by the huge protest against the proposed routing of this road." "It's really important that as many people as possible take the opportunity to voice their objections before the public consultation ends this Friday (April 29)," adds Neil. The public consultation on the controversial routing of the proposed Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route is coming to an end. A series of public exhibitions have been held around Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire with the deadline for responses to the Scottish Executive being this Friday. (April 29) The Save Camphill campaign was launched in February last year to carry forward Camphill's 11 years of objection to the proposed route of the AWPR. Save Camphill recognises there are economic arguments for the road, but believes that the noise and disruption of construction, then a busy dual carriageway trunk road, would destroy the therapeutic environment which has been central to its internationally-renowned work with vulnerable adults and children over the past six decades. The Save Camphill campaign has more than 2,000 supporters. Among them is BBC Newsnight presenter Jeremy Paxman, television presenter Timmy Mallett (whose brother Martin is a resident), The Bill actor Trudie Goodwin (whose sister-in-law is a resident) and breakfast TV presenter Lorraine Kelly. Camphill began in Aberdeen in 1939 when Karl König and his followers escaped the Nazi regime and set up their pioneering community in Aberdeen. Camphill's Aberdeen communities are now at the centre of the international Camphill Movement, which has 90 centres in 21 countries worldwide. The Save Camphill website is at
www.savecamphill.org.uk. Website visitors have a chance to respond
to the Scottish Executive consultation by email, up until Friday's
(April 29) deadline. | |||
|
|||
|
Camphill parents hand over
open letter to Minister for Transport The Minister for Transport Nicol Stephen was presented with an open letter signed by 44 parents and guardians of special needs children who attend, or have recently attended, the Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools on the Murtle Estate. The letter expresses "deep concern" at the proposed Murtle route for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, which would run within 100 metres of the children's homes. The letter states: "As parents whose children have benefited from Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools, we know the anguish that having a child with severe learning difficulties can bring to any family. We know how it feels to have to face up to the fact your son or daughter should be cared for by someone else. "What makes this harrowing situation more acceptable is to experience the incredible love, patience and understanding each pupil at Camphill receives from the teachers, house parents and medical staff. "We could be confident that our sons and daughters would get the best possible care and therapy, provided in a safe and tranquil environment. We could be assured that they would be given as much freedom as possible to experience life beyond the classroom in the peaceful, safe surroundings of Murtle Estate. "Anyone who has a child with learning difficulties knows how disturbance and noise - which the rest of us can take in our stride - can trigger regressive, disruptive and sometimes extreme behaviour. That is why the tranquil therapeutic environment of Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools' estate is so important to us." A separate letter, written by former Camphill Rudolf Steiner School pupil David Luke was also handed over to the Minister. In his letter, David says: "I was there form 1982 to 1990 and the eight years I spent there were really happy and I was so upset to hear about this planned new road." Also handed over to the Minister was a book containing around 2,000 comments protesting about the proposed Murtle route through Camphill. These comments have been collected at the Camphill Newton Dee store, Camphill Medical Practice and from the Save Camphill website at www.savecamphill.org.uk The Save Camphill campaign was formed in February 2004 to take forward Camphill's 11-year objection to the proposed Murtle route through Camphill. The proposed route would impact on around 200 special needs children and adults on Camphill's Murtle and Newton Dee estates. It would pass within 100 metres of the homes of severely learning disabled and autistic children and within 50 metres of the fields in which special needs adults work. Campaign supporters include BBC Newsnight presenter Jeremy Paxman, TV personality Lorraine Kelly, TV presenter Timmy Mallett (whose brother is a Newton Dee resident) and Trudie Goodwin who plays Sgt June Ackland in The Bill (whose sister in law is a Newton Dee resident). The Save Camphill campaign is a single-issue
campaign, which opposes only the Murtle route through Camphill,
which would have a severe impact on the lives of the vulnerable
children and adults and on six decades of work, which inspires the
international Camphill Movement. | |||
|
|||
|
Save Camphill airs
concerns on Radio Scotland BBC Radio Scotland’s Twelve 2 Two programme focuses
for 90 minutes of its time slot on the concerns surrounding the AWPR
with contributions by Dr Stefan Geider, Camphill Medical Officer,
Aileen Falconer, Research Co-ordinator, Vincent d'Agostino, Camphill
Rudolf Steiner Schools’ Administrator and residents Phyllis Jack and
Raymond Friskney. | |||
|
|||
|
Show your solidarity with
Save Camphill Join the special needs children and adults of
Camphill and show your solidarity with them at the first of the
public consultation exhibitions on Thursday, March 10 at
10am outside the Old Mill Inn, Maryculter (on the
South Deeside Road near Aberdeen). | |||
Famous for the acclaimed Inspector Rebus series, which
has topped the Sunday Times bestseller lists and been adapted into a
major TV series, Ian has previously supported charitable and
fundraising work by Capability Scotland because of the help the
charity has given to his disabled son and his family.
Commenting on her support of the Save Camphill campaign,
Michaela Strachan said:
Popular entertainer, Rolf Harris has added his support
for the Save Camphill campaign. Rolf, who has been on the UK
entertainment scene since his British TV debut some 50 years ago,
has been the presenter of Animal Hospital for the past ten
years.
Neil, is a friend of former children's TV presenter and
Save Camphill supporter, Timmy Mallett, whose older brother Martin
has been a resident of Camphill's Newton Dee Village since 1981.