About Camphill
Universal idea, worldwide movement
The Camphill movement is made up of over 100 communities in over 20 countries around the world. where people of all abilities work and live together. Each community is different but all share the belief that we are not defined by our ability. Our communities are places of meaningful work, friendship and a springboard to engage with the wider community.
We are defined by our humanity
The essence of a committed Camphill community is the belief that we are defined not by our abilities but by our humanity. Our communities in Britain, Ireland and around the world provide a space where people of all abilities share their lives or their work -or both- as equals. A place where there is no sense of being disabled and where people can live the life they choose.
Friendship and meaningful work
Camphill was founded in Scotland by Karl König a refugee from Nazi-occupied Austria in 1939. A founding principle of Camphill is that we are at one with the world around us, that we have a spiritual connection to the earth and the seasons. Camphill was one of the pioneers of biodynamic farming rooted in the belief that for the earth to keep giving you have to put something back.
what it means to be human
Being with not just caring for
The essence of a Camphill community lies in the word reciprocity. People of all abilities live and work together each drawing strength from the other. Anna Falch, a volunteeer at Ploughshare Farm in New Hampshire, USA, describes why volunteering at a Camphill community was a defining experience for her: “What makes us human is not a special IQ; it’s not one single ability like being able to speak or walk like anyone else; it’s not a look. It is true love between all beings, the energy that makes the world go round. It is staying true to yourself and meeting others and life itself with respect. Once when I felt deeply sad and lost I went to the living room at Plowshare Farm and there was Emily a wonderful 45-year-old woman with physical and mental challenges. As I sat down I laid my head on her shoulder and told her: ' Emily I’m so sad' She knew exactly what to do. She put her good arm around me and said : ‘ Don’t worry I’m here for you ‘ and then she gave me a kiss on my head”.
Our life
Camphill: an idea ahead of its time
Biodynamic wine: as good as it gets
Biodynamic wine is taking the world by storm. It works, it's sustainable, it has social relevance, it's wine on a human scale and it's profitable. Alain Catzeflis visited one small vineyard in south-west France to find out how.
How Annie found inclusion in a Camphill community
Since moving to Heartbeet Camphill Annie has reclaimed her happiness and confidence. She walks — or snowshoes — miles each day. She now weighs 120 pounds. She works part-time at a local artisanal cheesemaker, and takes personal pride whenever they win a gold medal.
April 28, 2018: Launch of a new community bringing fresh hope
The Esk Valley Camphill Community in North Yorkshire celebrated its formal launch on April 28, 2018. It represents a remarkable rebirth driven by the dedication of families, villagers and co-workers who resisted attempts to change their way of life. Support their work
Arts and culture at the heart of communities
Ever since the dawn of man culture and the arts has been part of who we are and how we see ourselves. The arts - music, dance, weaving, song, plays - helps us to relate to each other and tell our story as human beings. The arts are a crucial part of life in Camphill communities allowing people to find self-expression and fulfillment.