Andrew

Andrew has severe communication difficulties. He likes to communicate using facial expressions: in this picture, he is enjoying being out on the hills with others from the community where he lives.

Andrew has lived in Camphill communities for 18 years, first at Camphill School Aberdeen and now at Corbenic.

His mum, Elaine, says

We were first attracted to Camphill School because it met Andrew’s need for a quiet, structured environment. Being supported in a household model, and within an education system which focussed on the practical rather than the academic really suited him. Within Camphill, at both the School and Corbenic, his behaviour has become less difficult; he is calmer and less anxious. His perfectionism, previously seen as a problem, has become a strength and resulted in him becoming a highly regarded craftsman within the community.

Outwith the community, Andrew is highly dependent and extremely vulnerable, and we are extremely grateful that the structure and support he finds in Camphill mean he has somewhere that he feels as comfortable and confident as he does. Due to his communication problems Andrew finds it difficult to make friends, and the community also provides him with a social structure. Something that is often disregarded when considering a person’s needs is spirituality. By this I do not mean access to religion, but that which gives meaning to one’s life. At Corbenic Andrew is a valued member of the Community and has a contentment that conveys he is secure within himself. At Corbenic he is seen for his abilities rather than his disabilities and he makes a real contribution to the life and work of the Community.   He is part of a community not a client who is cared for.   He displays no mental health issues, despite his severe communication problems, on the contrary he displays well-being which we feel is a result of his living a rich and fulfilled life in Camphill.