Simeon Care for the Elderly welcomes local MP

Local MP, Ross Thomson MP, visited Simeon Care for the Elderly on 7 August 2019.

Mr Thomson was given a tour of Simeon Care for the Elderly, and spoke to members of the community. This included Andy Walls, a resident at Simeon, and his daughter Marjorie, who had a chat with Mr Thomson about life at Simeon.

He also met a group of co-workers, and heard first hand about the contribution made by international volunteers at Simeon, and about their concerns relating to the potential impact of Brexit upon Simeon Care, and upon the other Camphill communities in Scotland, as well as about the difficulties over the past year of obtaining volunteer Visas for people from non-EU countries wishing to volunteer at Simeon Care.

Keith Nunn, the Manager at Simeon Care, said after the visit of Ross Thomson MP:

It was a pleasure to welcome Ross to Simeon today so he could see the work we do, and the importance of our international volunteers.  They contribute significantly to the well-being of our residents, and are the heart of our community.

We were encouraged by Ross’s understanding of our philosophy, and our concerns about the future of our volunteer programme. To have his support on this crucial issue is a great comfort, and we are optimistic about the future.

Dr Neil Henery, Camphill Scotland’s Director, said:

We really value Ross’s support for the Camphill communities in Aberdeen. He saw today the wonderful contribution made by international volunteers to the Simeon community and the elderly residents that they live with. We look forward to continuing to work with Ross to ensure a bright future for international volunteering in Scotland.

Ross Thomson, MP for Aberdeen South, said:

I am very grateful to the team at Simeon Camphill Community for taking the time to show me around today.  It was great to hear first-hand the experiences of residents of Simeon and their family members.

The ethos at the facility is clearly focused on dignity and autonomy for those who have made this community their home.  I was particularly struck with the efforts of the international volunteer team, who obviously have a positive and lasting impact on many of the residents here.