Simeon Care for the elderly belongs to the worldwide Camphill movement. Originally the work in Camphill was around the children, young people 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 elderly. Our residents come from many different backgrounds. Some of them have been Camphill co-workers, some come from the neighbourhood, some come from other parts of the country or even from abroad.

Our continuing aim is to build up a community in which residents and co-workers can join in according to 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 enriches our cultural life. We always appreciate any contributions by our co-workers and residents.

We live in three houses, Caranoc, Whithorn and Windruffe. Altogether we are 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 8km from Aberdeen. There are buses leaving just a short walk from here, and we have bikes available for our co-workers.

We have an employed cook from Monday to Friday how cook our lunch. Breakfast, supper and weekend meals we prepare ourselves. Employed night nurses work from 21.00 – 7.00 each night. Simeon employs two part-time carers, a secretary and handyman.

We do not work in shifts – we share all the care for the residents, which of course will vary from each individual. Some may need help with even the most basic tasks while others volunteer to share some of the work in the house with us. That makes our day varied, in the morning you might be helping a resident getting prepared for the day, and in the evening cooking supper. We also do not receive wages in the usual sense but we have free board and lodging. Each co-worker gets one and a half-day off and £28 pocket money a week. Individuals arrange their own holidays. Those who come for half a year receive five days holiday plus £50. Those who stay for one year or longer will get their ticket home paid, they also get a one-week holiday after every four months and £70 for each week they use. There will be a one-month trial period and continuing supervision and support for all co-workers.

When you come for more than three months, you will need to register with the National Health Service. A visit to our doctor in the Camphill Medical Practice completes this. This will cover any prescribed medicines, dentist appointments and so on. Simeon’s insurance will cover any other medical costs.

Living and working in Simeon can involve situations requiring skills in handling pressure and taking responsibilities. Thus, we have an introductory course for all new co-workers where we learn about various issues about our work and life with people who have special needs. We have a daily morning meeting to discuss the day ahead and look at the needs of the residents and co-workers.

Words from a 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.”