Voluntary Short-term Co-workers

We accept applications for short-term volunteer co-working positions throughout the year. Our short-term co-workers come from all over the world. For those from outside the UK, we can sponsor a Tier 5 volunteer VISA.

Please read the Short-term Co-worker FAQ’s and if you are interested in applying, you can download an application form via the link below.

We are accepting applications for co-workers willing to stay at least 6 months, but we will give preference to applicants who can stay for a full year (12 months).

Applications should be sent to [email protected]

PLEASE DO NOT POST APPLICATIONS – email only.

Download an Application Form

“I met so many wonderful people and some of them became really good friends. But the whole Camphill is a special place and it’s nice to come back. It’s like a second home in some ways”

Anna Hofman

What experience do I need?

None. Short-term workers need no experience of working with adults with special needs. Just bring an open mind and a willingness to get involved and to take initiative in the house and at work. We like you to be with us for at least a year to experience the cycle of the seasons and festivals.

If you already have a Camphill experience, we sometimes have opportunities for people to work with us for a shorter period, especially in the summer months.

Those wishing to make a long-term commitment to our Community should ideally have experience with us or other Camphill Communities.

What about BREXIT?

We value our European volunteers just as much as ever. Indeed, Brexit has led us to cherish our European connections even more than before.

Camphill was founded in 1939 by Austrian refugees and remains a profoundly European and international movement. In any Camphill community you will hear a wide variety of languages spoken and a rich mix of different cultural and national backgrounds. We see this as a great strength of the Camphill movement and we are doing everything we can to preserve it during the Brexit process and beyond.

EU volunteers will now need to apply for a VISA.

What if I need a VISA

Newton Dee is able to sponsor Charity VISAs for people from outside of the UK. A Charity VISA will allow you to volunteer in Newton Dee only. We have had many people asking recently if they can take on a part-time job while they are here, but this is not possible.

If your application to Newton Dee is accepted, we will help you through the VISA application process.

You might get a phone call from the UK Border Agency to interview you about why you are coming to ND. Don’t be nervous, and remember, you are coming to Newton Dee to live with adults with learning difficulties. The Border Agency needs to ensure you are coming to volunteer. So you can share that you are coming to experience something different, to volunteer with a charity that is trying to create an inclusive community with adults with learning difficulties. There is no salary, but the charity will provide you with food and lodging and a bit of spending money.

If you require a visa from overseas you will have to pay the costs of the visa (£244), NHS surcharge (£624), and flights yourself. UK Charity Visas are valid for 12 months and are non-renewable. If you stay for the whole 12 months, Newton Dee will refund/pay for your return flight.

What about training?

All short-term co-workers attend an induction and an ongoing foundation course. Other ‘on-the-job’ training is given according to the work you do. Those who intend to stay with us for more than a year are encouraged to take part in additional training.

What about pay?

Co-workers living in Camphill Communities are not paid for the work they do. Their needs are met from the resources of the Community.

Those working with us for a year or less receive financial support to cover clothing, other personal needs and outings. You should come with a return ticket or enough money for your fare home at the end of your period with us. Those staying for 12 …