Camphill welcomed by SamCam at No10

Oct 14 2011 by Kaiya Marjoribanks, Stirling Observer Friday

RESIDENTS, staff and supporters of Camphill Blair Drummond were delighted to attend a reception recently hosted by Samantha Cameron at Number 10 Downing Street

The reception, hosted by Prime Minister David Cameron’s wife herself, was held in support of the work of the charity locally and across Scotland.

Camphill Blair Drummond is a warm and welcoming community which provides homes and meaningful daily activities for people with learning disabilities.

Based near Stirling next to Blair Drummond safari park, the residential community offers an environment where residents and day students can live together, learn new skills through daily workshops and enjoy making friends surrounded by the beauty of the Scottish countryside, allowing everyone involved to realise their potential.

Jason Glass, Director of Operations at Camphill Blair Drummond, says: “We were delighted when Samantha Cameron offered to host this reception for us.

“The charity is part-way through a long-term capital development project which will secure the future of our unique residential community.

“The event gave us the opportunity to celebrate our success and mark the next important stage of our work and that of our exciting capital development project that is now well under way.

“The reception also provided a fantastic opportunity to talk more about the unique values and work of our organisation, and to invite others to share in our inspiring journey.”

At the evening reception at Number 10 staff and residents of Blair Drummond were joined by a guest list of more than 130 people, including friends, supporters and representatives of Camphill communities throughout Scotland.

Jason said: “It was a real privilege to be invited into such a historic setting; one in which many important decisions have been made about the future of our country.

“In the same way it is a real privilege for us all to be involved in the life and work of Camphill Blair Drummond, and to help shape its future.”

In June 2010 the charity launched a multi-million project and appeal in a bid to make radical improvements to its residential homes and workshops in the Camphill Blair Drummond community, which is situated in the grounds of a baronial mansion house with views of Blairdrummond Safari Park.

Three new workshop rooms already opened this summer as part of the project, further enhancing the lives of the young people who live there.

Work on refurbishing and expanding the residential accommodation is expected to be underway by the end of the year.

Also included in the extensive plans are a therapy garden, a network of walking and cycling paths and a new activity centre in the woodland.

Residents often arrive at Camphill as young adults and through community living and individual support they have the opportunity to develop their potential.

Activities such as woodworking, crafts, artwork, baking and gardening play an important role for residents, encouraging their abilities, and giving them a sense of routine, purpose and achievement. However their work is also held in high regard and much in demand at their popular sales.

For more information about Camphill Blair Drummond's charitable activities visit their website at www.camphillblairdrummond.org.uk.