Help more people like Nicki live extraordinary lives
“Without Camphill Village Trust I wouldn’t be where I am today.” – Nicki
A night that changed everything
We’re Peter and Pauline, and we want to tell you about our daughter, Nicki — and the night that changed everything.
At 17, Nicki’s future was full of promise. She was studying for her A-levels, with dreams of a career in psychology. Then a devastating car accident changed everything.
Nicki survived but spent three months in a coma. When she woke, she was left with lifelong learning disabilities. Even the smallest everyday tasks became extraordinary challenges.
“For ages I couldn’t tie my shoelaces.” – Nicki
At her lowest, she told us, “I’ve ruined my life.” But her determination never left her: “I want to stay independent.”
That’s when Camphill Village Trust became part of her life — giving Nicki not just a home, but meaningful work, creativity, and purpose.
Please donate to Camphill Village Trust and help more people like Nicki live extraordinary lives.
Rediscovering her voice
Staff encouraged Nicki to complete a Performing Arts degree – sitting with her to help read lines, supporting her through coursework, and guiding her through the challenges of COVID.
Today, Nicki proudly says:
“I do the pantomime performances… the last one was Snow White, and I was Snow White.”
She’s rediscovered her passion for performance, singing with Rock Choir, and even standing on stage with Gareth Malone’s choir at Latitude Festival.
Discovering new talents
Before her accident, art was never part of Nicki’s life. Now, she has new ways to express herself through pottery, sewing and drawing.
“I was never really great at art… now I can draw. I drew a good penguin and made him into a cushion cover – he’s on my bed and he’s called Pencil.” – Nicki
Moments like these may seem small, but for Nicki they’re extraordinary victories — and a reminder of how much joy the right support can unlock.
Your donation can help more people like Nicki discover new skills, confidence and pride.
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Everyday victories that build independence
Nicki works proudly at her local theatre as a steward – welcoming audiences with confidence. Staff supported her job application and still help her manage her rota.
Day to day, her key workers cook alongside her so she can keep practising towards her goal of preparing meals on her own.
“…so that people can come to the Trust… learn how to cook better meals and do more fun activities.” – Nicki
Ordinary things for most of us are, for Nicki, extraordinary achievements.
Why your support matters
Without Camphill Village Trust, Nicki might have been left with a less-than-ordinary life – invisible and overlooked.
Instead, she has independence, friendship, and a future filled with opportunities.
As her mum Pauline says:
“If she had been in ordinary social housing with carers dropping in, she would never have had these opportunities. Camphill gives her more – a full life.”
Nicki thought she had lost everything. With your help, she rebuilt her life. Please donate today to help more people like Nicki live extraordinary lives.