Wolfson Foundation awards generous grant

Camphill School Aberdeen is a step closer towards its £10 million capital appeal after receiving a £100,000 injection from the Wolfson Foundation.

The grant is to go towards the charity’s new residential house with independent living wing. The home will enable the charity to open its doors to more vulnerable young people in our community who are in urgent need of support.

The Wolfson Foundation is an independent charity committed to research and education – with a focus on science, health, heritage, humanities and the arts.

Alex Busch, Executive Director of Camphill School Aberdeen, said: “This is an extremely generous grant from the Wolfson Foundation which will directly benefit the young people in our care, both now and into the future. The new residential house is the cornerstone of the first phase of our £10 million capital appeal and this award is a significant milestone towards making that a reality.

“Currently, the demand for our services far exceeds our capacity. The only way to help more young people in the north-east is to bring our plans to life. We want to ensure that every young person who needs our support can access it and this award will help us achieve our vision.”

Since the Foundation’s establishment in 1955, it has awarded over £1 billion to more than 12,000 projects throughout the UK.

Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive of the Wolfson Foundation said: “Wolfson first supported the Camphill movement in the 1960s, and we are delighted to contribute funding to this much-needed new residential development in Aberdeen – the site of the first Camphill School – for young people with learning disabilities. These facilities will play a vital role in helping young people with complex needs to live with greater independence.”

More than 95 young people are currently supported by Camphill School Aberdeen. They often struggle in mainstream education and other care options - but thrive at the charity. Regardless of their abilities, the children and young people grow in confidence, independence and fulfil their potential – often achieving outcomes their families never thought possible.

The school’s unique approach integrates education, lifelong learning, and expert care within a therapeutic environment as part of a shared living community with onsite medical support.

Alex continued: “Since launching phase one of the capital appeal in February, we have raised a fantastic £1,855,000 but still need the support of the local community and businesses to raise the remaining 40% to fulfil our vision.”