Sir, – You report that Inclusion Ireland finds congregated settings unsuitable for people with disabilities ("Call for inquiry into use of outdated institutions", January 26th). Those people are described as being "abandoned" and those settings as outdated and institutionalised.
It would be a pity if all groups providing community life for those with intellectual disabilities were tarred with the same brush, and dismissed as places with “dark corners”, without choice or freedom for their residents, and which therefore must be closed.
As a parent of someone living in a congregated setting and a member of Family and Friends of Camphill Ireland, I have seen the wonderful benefits that a healthy, open community life can offer. Parents of a person with disability will know that social isolation can be a sad feature of their lives.
The Camphill movement was founded to give pride to the more vulnerable members of our society, by allowing them to grow in the freedom and protection of shared community. In the past 70 years this great family has spread through Ireland, Britain, Europe, America, Africa and the Far East. As it has grown, it has changed. Members judged able now live more independently, though still with support.
But – again, as every parent knows – there are some who cannot live independently or alone. For those, a community life is essential, and in its shelter they are safe from isolation.
Each resident contributes to the work of the community with small tasks such as cooking, shopping, housekeeping; others can choose to work outside; in the country communities this includes work in the garden or farm.
The relation between resident and co-worker is one of mutual respect.
Inclusion Ireland has correctly pointed out the aridity in much of institutional life. We would ask them to visit Camphill and see for themselves how residents blossom when nourished by community. And surely if someone wants to live within that community, that choice should be respected. – Yours, etc,
NOEL KEANE,
Waterford.