Settlement for Camphill Village Trust

The legally-binding agreement, reached by the two parties and their lawyers, sets out key guiding principles as well as specific shared aims for the communities of Botton, Delrow and The Grange to be implemented in an agreed timetable.

The agreement reached through the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) covers a range of key issues ranging from governance of the charity at local and national level through to areas of dispute such as the core principle of life-sharing in CVT communities.

These issues will be fleshed out in further discussions to be held in clear stages over the next few months. A review with the mediator will take place in three months with the aim of reaching a final agreement by the end of January, 2016.

The agreement comes after a long and difficult period for the charity and all concerned and provides a positive framework around which to rebuild trust and confidence through collaboration and genuine consultation. Underlying these efforts is a shared desire to build a better and more stable future for the beneficiaries and their communities.

An application will be made to the High Court to put on hold the legal proceedings brought by families and Co-workers. Provided sustainable, practical solutions can be achieved in this process and trust is rebuilt by working together over the next few months the legal action will be dropped.

This represents a solid start towards a more lasting resolution to the dispute. All those involved in this complex mediation recognise the importance of a positive outcome but also the fragility of the situation. The parties appeal to all those who care for the communities and the charity to be supportive of this process and to allow this real opportunity for reconciliation to succeed.

Press enquiries should be directed to Andy Paton, Communications Director, Camphill Village Trust on 07813 062118.

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