The Lantern Administration

The Lantern Community Statement of Purpose

Enabling the Individual Within a Circle of Creative Community Support

Mission Statement of the Camphill Movement

The Camphill Movement, which was founded in 1940, works to create communities in which vulnerable children and adults, many with learning disabilities, can live, learn and work with others in healthy social relationships based on mutual care and respect. Camphill is inspired by Christian ideals as articulated by Rudolf Steiner and is based on the acceptance of the spiritual uniqueness of each human being, regardless of disability or religious or racial background.

Aims and Objectives

The aims and objectives, as well as the guiding principles of the Camphill Movement, are set out in An Introduction to Camphill Communities, published by the Association of Camphill Communities (1997).

Mutual Support and Care

The social organism of a Camphill Community creates opportunities through which the full potential of each individual can be realised. An integrated cultural, social, domestic and working life enables every person to be an active participant. Mutual care is seen as essential to the dignity of the individual and the supportive framework of interdependence enhances the quality of life of each individual. Where an individual is in need of personal care, as identified in their individual care plan, we would aim to provide this in a responsive, responsible and professional manner with due regard to the dignity and personal wishes of the person concerned. Where appropriate, support to access wider community health services as required, would be given.

In a Camphill Community it is essential that the decision to make one’s home there is made freely and that the implications of this are recognised, since there are also responsibilities involved. In particular it is important that a correct balance is found between the expression of one’s own needs and wishes, and consideration of the needs and wishes of other people with whom one lives and works.

The art of living lies in discovering a point of balance between

• Individual choice ---- Responsibility to Others
• Independence ---- Interdependence
• Self Fulfilment ---- Mutual Support

Enabling the Individual and Community

The Lantern Community does not perceive itself as an 'agency' or a 'service provider'. We strive to build a community that recognises and responds with creativity, flexibility and openness to the variety and diversity of changing needs, and to co-operate in enabling each individual to move to a desirable personal future. Community arises between people, through a valued personal network of mutually supportive relationships that engenders shared purposeful action and celebration.

What we believe in and what we aim to do both individually and collectively.

• The unique dignity and worth of each person, and the valued contribution that each can offer.
• That each individual has a right to explore, recognise and unfold their own destiny.
• To support each individual to realise their potential, to make appropriate choices, and to exercise self-determination and autonomy in all areas of their lives.
• Respect for each individuals culture, beliefs and traditions.
• To support and encourage freedom of expression.
• Valuing the views and inviting active support from those who wish to develop a positive future for our Companions.
• Work to maintain effective structures that enhance good communication and inclusion in the development of the Lantern Community.
• Working in partnership with other individuals and organisations to develop flexible and responsive resources that promote diversity and opportunity.
• Maintain and develop a community that is transparent, flexible, interactive and responsive to the changing needs of those who wish to be part of it, and who wish to make it their home.

A Lifesharing Community

The Lantern Community, as all other Camphill Communities, has at its core the development of mutually supportive relationships, built on trust and individual rights. The legal and economic structures within which we work enhance this striving and both are included in the initiative called 'Supported Living'. In defining ourselves as a Lifesharing Community we take a further step beyond the singular element of our lives in relation to the need and provision of accommodation, and broaden the scope to an holistic approach which recognises the value and dignity inherent in work, and an inclusive and creative social and cultural life.

June 2003