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Simeon Care for the Elderly belongs to the worldwide Camphill Movement.
Originally the work in Camphill was around children, adolescents or
adults with special needs. Gradually, co-workers saw that meeting the needs
of the elderly person was a task as well. In 1984 some of us, nurses, doctors
and social workers, started this home for the elderly. Our residents come from
many different backgrounds. Some of them have been Camphill co-workers,
some come from the locality and some come from other parts of country or even
abroad.
Our continuing aim is to build up a community in which residents and co-workers
can join in according to their individual abilities. The guiding principle is
to uphold the dignity of each person during all phases of life. Celebrating
the Christian Festivals happens within Cairnlee Estate. Visiting artists
and musicians enrich our cultural life. We always appreciate any contributions
by our co-workers and residents.
Introduction to the estates.
We live in four houses, Caranoc, Whithorn, Windruffe and Rose Bank. Altogether we
are about 30 people. Our houses are part of Cairnlee Estate, which includes
a community for young adolescents with special needs. We also have contact
with other surrounding Camphill Communities, where we can go to listen to concerts
and lectures, watch plays and meet with other co-workers from all over the
world. Simeon is in Bieldside, which is roughly 4 miles from Aberdeen City
centre. There are public buses leaving just a short walk from here, and
we have bikes available for our co-workers.
Day to day work.
Working in Simeon is more a way of life. We usually all have meals and
tea breaks together. We share in the care of the
residents, which varies for each individual. Some may need
help with the most basic tasks while others share in the work
in the house.
Our day generally starts 7am in the morning and finishes 9pm. We come
together to receive the night report from the night nurse at 6.45am and to
give the day report to the night nurse at 8.45pm.
All co-workers have time off each week.
We have employed night carers, cooks, and those who help with other household tasks.
Pocket money.
Our Volunteer Co-workers receive expense money for out of pocket expenses. From this you are expected to cover
personal needs such as, clothing, postage, stationery, telephone calls, etc.
You will receive free board and lodging.
Holiday.
Volunteer Co-workers have one and a half-day holiday for each month's stay at Simeon.
Journeys home.
EU Countries
Simeon will pay up to £100 towards your travel expenses home after a stay of
12 months.
Outside the EU
You are expected to come with a valid return ticket or have enough funds
to pay your return ticket home. Simeon may contribute towards your travel expenses home after a stay of
12 months.
Those who stay with us for less than 12 months are expected to pay their own travel expenses.
Smoking.
Smoking is not allowed in any buildings in the community. It is allowed
only in designated areas.
Medical
Those who stay in Simeon for longer than 3 months can register at the Camphill
Medical Practice or at a local Medical Practice of their choice. Once registered you may benefit from regular
medical cover provided by the National Health Service.
Clothes
Aberdeen is in the North East of Scotland which can be cool and wet even
during the summer months.
Words from a former co-worker.
"When I first came to Simeon, I had no idea what life here would
be like. Though I had read the description letter, I don't think anything
could have prepared me for living and working in a community. I have learnt
to respect the differences of other people and to respond to their needs.
But I have also learnt several aspects about my abilities and myself.
And I have discovered parts of me that I never knew were there. I hope
that I have given something to Simeon, although I could never give back
what Simeon has given to me."
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