This was a fascinating look at a village almost entirely populated by people with special needs : Autism, Downs syndrome and various learning disabilities.
It has some hilarious and adorable moments, and it made me really happy to see that these guys have worked out a way for everyone to feel needed - everyone has their own jobs, and although there can be a bit of conflict between some of the villagers everyone is generally treated with respect and care.
We need more communities like this.
As a parent of 2 young non-verbal autistic children with a wide variety of "issues" this really cheered me up for some reason.
I really struggle to imagine the future for my kids - while they've made massive progress they are still a loooong way from any sort of independence. Unfortunately, there's a good chance it may never happen.
I'd love to see something like this in Australia - even though public awareness and attitude are improving it would be a huge weight off my mind to know that there was a place we could go where almost everyone was aware and sympathetic to their needs/fears/habits and we wouldn't stick out like we do at the moment.
Even if you're not personally affected by these issues - it's also fascinating to study the psychology and interactions between these people. At the very least you may get a giggle out of some of the cuter moments (like the 2 elderly guys deep in discussion in their own invented language).
- Wiki for Botton - North Yorkshire
- Botton Village - Camphill Village Trust
- Only Human - The series this episode is from
The Strangest village in Britain
Posted to youtube on 2016-02-28 with this description :
A moving film about the Yorkshire village of Botton, a place where eccentric behaviour is celebrated and people who might have difficulty being accepted by the outside world are welcomed.
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