The Camphill Movement

Camphill communities are based on the inclusion of people with and without disabilities and respect for the environment. Now, there are over 100 Camphill communities spanning 22 countries, but the start of the movement happened in Aberdeen over 80 years ago.

Aberdeen: where it all started

The first Camphill Community was established in June 1940 in Kirkton House, Aberdeen, by Dr Karl König and a group of Austrian refugees fleeing World War II. From the start, Camphill has been a safe space for people with disabilities and complex additional support needs.

Camphill Estates is the legal entity created for the first Camphill Community founded by Dr König at Camphill House on Camphill Estate on the outskirts of Aberdeen in 1940.

Over time, as more people resonated with the Camphill message, our community expanded, leading to the creation of several independent charities in Aberdeen and over 120 communities across the world.

Anthroposophy:

Anthroposophy is a philosophy created by Rudolf Steiner and adopted by Karl König which integrates scientific and spiritual practices. According to Anthroposophy, the Camphill movement believes that everyone has the capacity to find their own path that leads them to physical and spiritual wellbeing.

The Camphill way of Life:

Camphill communities value the diversity of their residents as a positive, and focus on the qualities that unite us instead of those that set us apart.

In Camphill communities, everyone has a function and a purpose, and everyone contributes to keeping the community alive. Meaningful work is considered one of the pillars of a fulfilling life, independently of your ability and support needs.

Our impact:

The five communities that utilise our land host almost 200 people with additional support needs, and we are always aiming to grow our community so we can deliver specialised, person-based care to as many individuals as possible. The people who join Camphill communities enjoy a rythmic, calm life in alignment with nature, which is true for students, volunteers and staff.