The Lantern Community

Introduction

The Lantern Community is situated fifteen minutes walk from the nearest town of Ringwood, which has a good variety of shops and recreational facilities. We are on a direct bus route both to Poole and Bournemouth. There are many places to visit in the locality both of natural and historic interest and we are close to the coast and the New Forest. We are a part of the Sheiling Trust and share a 40 acre estate with the Sheiling School for children and adolescents with a learning disability. Sturts Farm, which is four miles away, provides biodynamic vegetables, meat and dairy produce. The Ringwood Waldorf School for mainstream education is also one of our neighbours. The Lantern Community offers adults with a learning disability (Companions) the possibility to contribute and partake in a mutually supportive environment, where there are opportunities for meaningful work suited to each individual's needs, interest and choice. There are approximately fifty five people in the Lantern each liv ing in equal relationship with others.

Management

The Advisory Council of the Sheiling Trust, which includes representatives of the Lantern Community, takes overall major policy decisions and carries legal responsibility for the three Camphill activities and the Ringwood Waldorf School. The Lantern has a Management Council that works hand in hand with committed co-workers who carry day to day responsibility. This Council includes members from beyond the Community who generously offer their skills and time for the overall benefit of the whole.

Supported living

Each Companion is enabled to live within the Lantern by access to a combination of funds, usually from Social Services and a grant from central government, via a Local Authority, called Supporting People. Companions hold a tenancy agreement, claim government benefit in their own right, and pay rent for the room they occupy. Each Companion has their own bank account, and support is given to administer them, also with the assistance of an appointee if requested. Further details on these topics c an be supplied on request, as well as the booklet, Choosing to Join the Lantern Community.

Life in the Houses

The Lantern Community consists of five houses on the Sheiling estate, and two houses in the town of Ringwood. There is also a further house, (Seahorses) on the Isle of Wight which is used for short breaks and holidays, as well as artistic activities, and is open to the public. In each house, co-workers and Companions share a home life, with everyone taking their part. We all recognise that our home is central to our lives in giving security, a sense of belonging and companionship.

Personal Development and Support

Each Companion is encouraged to learn new skills and accept new challenges in order to gain a greater degree of independence and fulfilment. It is recognised that this is a continual process for everybody. All of the co-workers involved in the Lantern have a wide experience and qualifications in many fields, and are encouraged to build on them for the benefit of all. This cultural diversity greatly enriches the social life. We work closely with regulatory authorities to ensure our training and qualifications for all co-workers meet or exceed statutory requirements.

Social, Cultural and Community Life

A rich and varied cultural life, often highlighted by the celebration of the Christian Festivals through the rhythm of the year, is an important element that offers opportunities for everyone to take part and contribute. Creative and artistic threads are constantly woven into the daily life. A broad outlook on life is encouraged, and there is ample opportunity for many interests to be pursued both in an individual and group situation within the wider community.

The Working Day

To offer a meaningful, balanced working life for everyone, is our endeavour. Each person's contribution is important. Through ones work everyone gains dignity and a sense of selfworth. An individualised workshop programme is arranged, which include a Pottery, Weavery, Woodworkshop, Bakery, Horticultural Nursery, Shop and Café. There are also a variety of seasonal craft activities. The kitchens in the various households are also an important working opportunity. Responsibility and social skills are developed, whilst work also provides an avenue for both training and learning new skills.

Family and Friends

The Lantern actively works to involve with a wide circle of support. There are regular meetings and working days throughout the year to which family, friends, council members and advocates are invited, in order to share and listen to all concerned with the well- being and future of the Lantern. The Garden Fete in the summer and Advent Fair at Christmas are regular social events. We have our own news sheet, the Lantern Weekly, which aims to inform and keep up to date with our life.