A charity-run school which cares for young people with learning difficulties says concerns over EU immigration has left it facing an uncertain future.
Bosses say Ochil Tower School in Auchterarder relies heavily on overseas volunteers and any changes to their rights to work in the UK could have “devastating consequences”.
Camphill Scotland, of which Ochil Tower is a member, said more than 80% of its voluntary workers come from outside the UK and continuing uncertainty is already making it more difficult to attract recruits.
Camphill Scotland was set up nearly 80 years ago to give sanctuary in Scotland to groups of mainly Austrian Jewish refugees fleeing from Nazism.
The school is based at a complex of three buildings off High Street and provides social care, education and therapy for up to 30 residential and day pupils aged between five to 18. It is based on the philosophy of social reformer Rudolf Steiner.
It is one of 11 school communities run by Camphill Scotland.
Stuart Provan, chief executive at the school, said: “At Ochil Tower we cannot underestimate the great value that comes through our traditional co-worker programme.
“Annually, we have around 12 to 14 young adults come to join us from generally EU countries, but also from non-EU countries too.
“They support us in our community and bring an energy and vibrancy that creates a difference. It is exceptional and creates another dimension to the care that we provide for young people.”
He said: “We wholeheartedly support initiatives that serve to highlight the importance of this cultural exchange that brings huge benefits to children that require high levels of care and support.
“The addition of co-workers to our staff team helps in making Camphill Ochil Tower a fairly unique offering and one that is diverse, rich and enthusiastic in supporting young people in our care to achieve their potential.”
Camphill Scotland has announced it is backing the Scottish Government’s #wearescotland campaign, which aims to ensure that people from other countries who have chosen to work and live in Scotland feel welcomed and supported.
The charity’s director Neil Henery said: “Most of our communities rely heavily on people from outside the UK, working and living in the communities to help provide essential education, care and support for members with learning disabilities and other support needs.
“Any further doubts about their rights to live and work in the UK could have devastating consequences for the Camphill communities in Scotland.”
The Camphill charity is part of a global movement which was established in Scotland in 1940 when the north-east corner offered a new home to Jewish groups escaping fascism.
Its staff and volunteers at its community schools and services offer support more than 600 people across the country.
