Proudly Jewish Care
Welcome to our latest issue of Careline. This issue is packed with stories and photos from across Jewish Care over the last six months. As always, we welcome your thoughts and comments on the design and content of Careline. Please send these to editor@jcare.org or call 07391 738 312.
EDITOR: Naomi Creeger
Editorial enquiries: Email: editor@jcare.org
DESIGN & PRODUCTION BY Mark Wingrove, Jewish Care’s in-house design studio to keep costs to a minimum
COVER PHOTO At Jewish Care’s Annual Dinner in June. Manfred Goldberg BEM, member of the Holocaust Survivors’ Centre, with Jewish Care Life President, The Lord Levy and Pam Bertschinger, volunteer at the Memory Way Café
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Hayley Aaron, Daniel Carmel-Brown, Naomi Creeger, Jamie Field, Faye Seager
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Blake Ezra, Claire Jonas, Justin Grainge, Mike Stone, Yakir Zur, staff and volunteers across Jewish Care
Printed by Media Group
Special thanks to everyone who helped with this issue. The views expressed in Careline are not necessarily those of Jewish Care or its employees. No article or photo published in Careline can be reproduced in part or in full, electronically or by any other means of dissemination, without the prior permission of Jewish Care.
© Jewish Care 2024
Welcome from Chief Executive, Daniel Carmel-Brown
Meet the Jewish Care family Tracing our history back almost 200 years 05
Chairman changeover for Jewish Care
All about outgoing Jonathan Zenios and welcoming in Marcus Sperber
06
Head Room social enterprise café
Delicious café, vibrant community programme, a space for Simchas
07 Peer Support brings hope for recovery Why lived experience is a source of wisdom
08 Around the World of Jewish Care
A look at some of the activities, events and special occasions over the last six months
11 Our Community Services bring a sense of belonging
Sam Beckman Choir wins Most Promising Act at Care Sectors Got Talent
12 Making Jewish life accessible
13 Topland Business Group Lunch and Young Patrons Dinner A first for Jewish Care and Jami’s joint Pesach appeal
14 Jewish Care Annual Dinner highlights
16
How befriending brings fascinating experiences UK first for DementiAbility accreditation
17 A good move to Wohl Court Retirement Living Giving in Memory on the Tree of Life
18
Celebrate with Jewish Care
A huge Mazal Tov and thank you to those who shared their simchas with us
19 Leaving a future gift in your Will is beyond incredible Supporting South London and South West Communities
20 Ask us a question
Questions and answers from Jewish Care’s free and confidential helpline
22
A guide to what we do
Where to find our wide-ranging services for the community
Welcome from the CEO
Daniel Carmel-Brown, Chief Executive, Jewish Care
Ihope you will feel inspired and proud of all that Jewish Care achieves when you read this issue of Careline.
Each day, our staff and volunteers create havens of care and support; where many people feel supported, proud of who they are, and of their Jewish identity.
Jewish culture and traditions run through all we do, supporting people to connect with Jewish life in the way that they choose, across our wide-ranging services.
As Manfred Goldberg MBE said, speaking at our dinner, ‘Never has it been more important to have a place to be proudly Jewish.’
Something many of us previously took for granted but which now feels more important than ever.
Over the page, you will see the 11 organisations that joined the Jewish Care family on a journey tracing back to the Jewish Board of Guardians, almost 200 years ago. Each generation has adapted, meeting the community’s changing needs. In this century, increased life expectancy and a growing older population means that Jewish Care meets the needs of many more frail, older people and those living with dementia. We regularly celebrate birthdays for centenarians and our dedicated staff are honoured to care for many older people who are at the end of their life.
Adapting again, in a significant moment over the last six months, Jami joined the Jewish Care family so that we can continue to offer sustainable mental health services to the Jewish community. This integration responds to the unprecedented growth, especially in the numbers of young people from the age of 11 upwards, for whom mental illness, distress and trauma makes everyday life a struggle.
Jami’s peer support is integral to the way Jami’s staff and volunteers support those, of all ages, on their mental health journey. We invite you to visit Jami’s Head Room café; a social enterprise, modern café, and space to hire with a vibrant community programme.
At our Annual Dinner, when almost 1,000 Jewish Care supporters gathered, Sir Keir Starmer, Leader of the Opposition and of the Labour Party, praised Jewish Care as an ‘exemplar of social care in this country’. Shadow Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, praised our Jewish values that shine through all that we do, including our
“WE
commitment to recognise our dedicated staff by paying the London Living Wage.
The evening raised a tremendous £5.3 million towards our annual £20 million target that we need to raise, now that Jami has joined forces with us. At the time of printing this magazine, we do not know who the next government will be, but we know that our staff and volunteers will have supported our clients in their democratic right to vote and to have their voices heard.
There are numerous achievements to be proud of. Five Jewish Care social workers were recognised as Amazing Social Workers by the British Association of Social Workers (BASW) in a nationwide initiative celebrating inspiring and creative social work practice across the UK.
In the national Care Home’s Got Talent competition, our Sam Beckman Centre for people living with dementia choir won the Most Promising Act Award. Our pioneering innovative Chef Academy received Best for Nutrition, Food and Dining Award at the Care Home Awards. We are Finalists in the national Dementia Care Awards and inaugural Palliative Care Awards. Jewish Care continues to excel on a national scale.
It is fantastic to see our plans for the new Redbridge campus take shape and become a reality, with building underway at the new Sugar and Ronson Campus to meet the needs of the community in North-East London thanks to the enormous generosity of the cornerstone donors the Ronson family and Sugar family. We look forward to sharing more development news in the coming months.
As our community hopes for times of peace ahead, we know that together we are stronger. And without flicker of doubt, Jewish Care couldn’t do what we do without your unending support and commitment which we are truly grateful for.
I hope you enjoy the summer.
CREATE HAVENS OF CARE AND SUPPORT”
Meet the Jewish Care Family
Jewish Welfare Board and Jewish Blind Society formally merge under a new name… Jewish Care 1990
Home and Hospital for Jewish Incurables in Tottenham becomes part of Jewish Care. 1992
Waverly Manor (Friends of the London Jewish Hospital) later to become Clore Manor, joins Jewish Care. 1990
Food for the Jewish Poor functions are incorporated into Jewish Care’s support services. 1992
Sinclair House (later known as Redbridge Jewish Community Centre) joins Jewish Care officially, as a merger formalises the partnership. 1997
Stepney Jewish (Bnei Brith) Clubs and Settlements joins Jewish Care to become what is now Brenner Stepney Jewish Community Centre.
British Tay-Sachs Foundation joins Jewish Care.
Hyman Fine House care home joins Jewish Care. 1997
Sunridge Court care home joins the Jewish Care family.
Jami and Jewish Care join forces to become one organisation.
New Chairman for Jewish Care
Iam thrilled that we will be welcoming Marcus Sperber as our next Chairman in September,” says Lord Levy, Jewish Care’s Life President. “His strategic and visionary thinking, breadth of experience and expertise will ensure that Jewish Care continues to be a leading organisation and provider of care, not only in the community, but also in the wider social care sector.
“I also want to express my deepest thanks and appreciation to Jonathan Zenios for his immense leadership and the enormous contribution he has made to the organisation during his time as Chairman to date and historically for over two decades, having previously served as Treasurer.”
Chairman-Designate, Marcus Sperber, has been involved with Jewish Care for several years and joined Jewish Care’s Board of Trustees in November 2021. He says, “Jewish Care is a cause very close to my heart, and I am truly honoured to be taking up the role of Chairman in September.
“The organisation has an exceptional Board of Trustees and an incredibly talented team of staff and volunteers led by CEO, Daniel Carmel-Brown. I am very much looking forward to working alongside and partnering with them to ensure that we continue to reach and provide care to clients and their families in our community who need our support. It is a privilege to be part of Jewish Care’s critical work and to be able to give back to the Jewish and wider community.”
Currently sitting on the charity’s Internal Audit, Assurance & Risk Committee and its Remuneration Committee, Marcus has a wealth of knowledge, expertise and experience in the charity sector and Jewish community, having sat on the boards and committees of many organisations including UJIA, North West London Jewish Day School, the Jewish Leadership Council and the Shen Charitable Trust. He has over 30 years of experience in the real estate and investment management industry.
Marcus currently runs his own investment and advisory business, Northcroft Capital, and acts as a non-executive Director and advisor to a number of investment managers, pension funds and property companies. Marcus is a Fellow of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.
Marcus paid tribute to “the hard work, commitment and dedication of the current Chairman, Jonathan Zenios, who has achieved so much throughout his term, helping to grow and strengthen the organisation.”
Jonathan navigated Jewish Care through the pandemic, leading the Board in addressing tough issues, with the organisation emerging even stronger. During his tenure, we aligned our pay strategy with the London Living Wage since October 2021, to ensure we continue to recruit and retain the most talented staff.
In addition, the Sandringham care campus was completed, with building underway for our latest major capital development in Redbridge.
We also welcomed Sunridge Court care home to join the family of Jewish Care homes. The Boards of Jewish Care and Jami integrated, after a decade long relationship, to secure the sustainability and future growth of services in response to the unprecedented rise of those in the community who experience mental illness, distress and trauma.
Jonathan Zenios, Chairman, commented: “I am absolutely delighted that the Board have chosen Marcus as my successor, and I have every confidence that the organisation will benefit hugely from his experience and skills. It has been an honour to lead Jewish Care over the last four years and I feel incredibly proud of the growth and progress that has been made during this time.
“I want to thank for all their support, the whole Board of Trustees (present and past), Lord Levy, our Life President, Steven Lewis, our President, and Dame Gail Ronson and Stephen Zimmerman, our Honorary Presidents. As a team, I could not have wished for more and I know Marcus will be extended the same support when he takes up the role in the autumn.”
Jami’s Head Room café is here for everyone
Head Room café in Golders Green is more than a café. It’s also a safe space to connect and engage with others, a warm and welcoming place to enjoy a bite to eat with family and friends, and an ideal venue to host a personal celebration, business meeting or corporate event. It’s also a social enterprise café, dedicated to reducing stigma and improving mental health in our community. All profits go towards funding Jami’s mental health services at the café and across the community.
Daniel Neis, Community Development Manager at Head Room, says, “Head Room is here for connection and meaningful activity, offering an alternative to traditional mental health services. We deliver free mental health support on the high street through a programme of activities and groups that inspire open conversations and mutual support.
“Since there’s no need for a referral or assessment, which typically forms part of being able to access mental health support, anyone, regardless of their faith, ethnicity, background, gender, sexuality or abilities, can take part in Head Room’s activities, which include a weekly art class, friendly discussion group and community walking group.
“For those of us who can’t get to Head Room in person, some sessions, including Kind Co-working and the peer support group, are also available for us to connect online, making them accessible whether we’re living in Hendon or Hainault.”
Here for food and drink
Whether you want a smoothie or a cappuccino, a nourish bowl or a niçoise salad, a mocha or a milkshake, Head Room’s menu offers a wide range of healthy, delicious kosher beverages and brunch dishes; kids meals and mains. Vegetarian and vegan options are available – and all at affordable prices. From our all-time favourite shakshuka to our tantalising smoked salmon salad, we know that everyone will find something to tempt their tastebuds.
To book a table, visit headroomcafe.org or order through Deliveroo.
Here for hire
An affordable, contemporary venue with helpful staff, a delicious kosher menu and good transport links (just a fiveminute walk from Golders Green station), Head Room café offers a unique and visually captivating space to host a private celebration or business meeting, as well as community and corporate events. Our talented chefs can work with you to create the perfect menu for your occasion. We can also provide a full wine list, signature cocktail and even coffees branded with your chosen logo or image.
Drop by to ask us for details, or make an enquiry at headroomcafe.org/contact-us.
Peer support provides hope and recovery
Peer support workers at Jami travel the road alongside Jami service users, bringing emotional and practical support every step of the way towards mental health recovery and increased resilience. Using their own experience as a guide, peer support workers help people to believe that recovery is possible.
At Jami, our expert support is provided with deep empathy and without judgement. Eighty-six per cent of our service delivery team either have lived experience or have someone close to them who has mental illness, distress or trauma, including our peer support staff who work across the charity. They are uniquely placed to understand the challenges that people who need our support face.
Louise Kermode, Director of Community Mental Health Services, says, “Peer support workers are an important part of the skills mix in our multi-disciplinary team and many managers also come from a peer support background. This means that along with the incredible one-to-one support they provide, they are also at decision-making tables and have influence in the organisation.
“Many of Jami’s peer support workers have accessed mental health services themselves and some have even benefitted from Jami’s support. They are central to everything we do at Jami and are beacons of light to those we support.”
John, who worked with two of
Jami’s peer support workers, says: “We would connect once a week to talk about how I felt, and they would set goals to help me move forwards. Our chats were something to look forward to; something to hold on to. Laura and Simon were my rock and I owe a lot to them.”
Daniel Neis, who joined Jami as a peer support worker in 2015 and is now the Community Development Manager at Head Room, Jami’s mental health and social enterprise café in Golders Green, says, “At Jami, we think about lived experience, and the difficulties that come with it, as providing a source of wisdom.
“Jami’s peer support workers, service leads, social workers and occupational therapists are offered training in intentional peer support. Peer support workers also receive ongoing training, supervision and development, as well as opportunities for group reflections to increase their learning through talking with others about what’s working well, and which areas may need developing.”
Activities led by Jami peer support workers include regular, confidential one-to-one meetings to work through personal, complex mental health difficulties and challenges, as well as weekly community walks, discussion
groups, and creative activities, which are all part of Head Room café’s weekly community programme, open to everyone in the community. There is also the option to join online peer support sessions too.
Daniel says, “Everything we do at Head Room café is informed by the principles of peer support – of trying to create more equal and mutually supportive relationships. It’s about learning how to be in relationships with other people, but also in a relationship with ourselves – particularly the parts of ourselves we find difficult.
“If I think back to my 20s, I could never have imagined doing what I’m doing right now. I think peer support has changed how I experience life now. My struggles haven’t completely gone away, but peer support has given me a different way of thinking about them.”
He adds, “A big part of my healing has been about being involved in supporting other people and finding activities that are meaningful. It’s about connection and relationships. That’s at the heart of peer support. It’s about moving towards what you want and all the possibilities waiting for you.”
Around the world of Jewish Care
01 180 guests enjoyed the afternoon at the Local Angels Lunch with guest speaker Adam Kay, former doctor turned TV writer, author and comedian, raising over £38,000 for the new Sugar and Ronson Care Campus in Redbridge.
02 The Friends of Stepney & Brenner Committee organised a quiz tea with teams named after East End Jewish youth clubs. Funds raised will support activities at Brenner Stepney Jewish Community Centre and connect@stamfordhill.
03 Joseph Winton, the oldest man in a Jewish care home in the UK, celebrated his 105th birthday at a tea surrounded by family, friends, and Jewish Care staff.
04 Young participants from our MIKE youth leadership programme explored the Jewish history of Prague during an inspiring heritage trip.
05 The Options Committee hosted an evening with Ann Widecombe, fundraising for intergenerational music sessions for residents at Otto Schiff care home and Kun Mor and George Kiss Home.
06 Centenarian, Henry Glanz who arrived in the UK on Kindertransport, was joined by CEO, Daniel CarmelBrown at a party to celebrate Henry's 100th birthday at the Brenner Stepney Jewish Community Centre.
07 Tracy-Ann Oberman spoke to 140 guests at the Friends of Rosetrees Lunch, raising funds for
specialist equipment and music activities for residents at Rosetrees care home at The Betty and Asher Loftus Centre.
08-09 Jewish Care and Jami marathon runners pounded out 26.2 miles in the TCS London Marathon 2024 whilst fundraising to help provide vital support for the community.
10 A 70s night at Southend and Westcliff Jewish Community Centre celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Southend Aid Society’s support to the Centre.
11 Residents at Sidney Corob House care home for people living with mental illness worked alongside writing practitioner, Vicky Martin, to create a fictional novel, titled, ‘What Matters’.
12 During Dementia Awareness Week the Memory Way Café celebrated 12 years of providing a supportive space for people with dementia and their carers at Michael Sobell Jewish Community Centre.
13 Guests at Jami’s community party celebrated the power of physical activity and artistic expression at Head Room, Jami’s social enterprise and mental health café, for Mental Health Awareness Week.
14 The sun shone for all on board the boat trip, when members of The Ronson Family Community Centre at Sandringham enjoyed the day trip, alongside volunteers and staff.
Celebrating Jewish Life Across Jewish Care
01-02. Dressing up and hearing the Megillah together was the order of the day for Anita Dorfman House care home residents and Pears Court Retirement Living tenants at Sandringham. Lili and Minnie had fun getting into the Purim spirit as did the members, volunteers and staff at Redbridge Jewish Community Centre.
03. Hundreds of primary school pupils took part in our Purim Zumba, dancing their way through Purim and raising funds for dance therapy sessions at The Sam Beckman Centre for people living with dementia.
04-05. Over 1,000 people took part in mock Seders this year across Jewish Care and Jami’s services. We
celebrated Pesach enjoying the Seder meal, singing together and telling the Passover story. Jackie and members of The Sam Beckman Centre for people living with dementia enjoyed the mock Seder with JCoSS student volunteers. At Jami's hubs, the members, staff and volunteers enjoyed their mock Seders together.
06. Elisa, a tenant at Selig Court, loves to take part in Challah baking sessions and in one session even made enough dough for 20 Challahs for Shabbat for her fellow tenants to enjoy.
07. Our members, volunteers and staff enjoyed getting in the mood for Shavuot with some delicious cheesecake at our Holocaust survivors Centre during
Volunteers Week in June. Miriam Freedman and Ivor Perl, with volunteer, Freddie Spiller, and Michael Blake, member of our Community Services and Volunteers Committee, together with staff, Francine Liebert and Debra Kluk.
08. Residents at Sunridge Court care home benefited from an interactive Mock Shabbat activity, where they shared warm past and present Shabbat memories with one another.
09. Retirement Living after Wohl Court tenants celebrated Yom Ha’atzmaut this year with an Israeli style buffet and exciting live entertainment.
Singing their way to success The power of communities that care
Jamie Field, Jewish Care’s Head of Community Services and Volunteering, explains how our community programme achieves such a positive impact on the quality of life of those we support in our communities.
“The aim of our community programme is to have a positive impact on the quality of life of our members and community, so they leave us feeling better than they did when they arrived at our nine community centres for older people, three centres for people living with dementia, and three Jami hubs for people for whom mental illness and distress makes everyday life a struggle.
We achieve this by creating a supportive team environment with a culture of pursuing excellence and working together to achieve our goals. These include keeping the brain active, staying physically fit, interacting and socialising with others, lifting spirits and connecting to Jewish culture.
Our team work together to create a dignified, positive Jewish environment, where our members and volunteers want to be. Volunteers also build strong connections with members, adding a Jewish cultural aspect, celebrating Jewish festivals and national days together, so people feel in touch and at home.
When people come to our community centres, Supportive Communities tea parties, JC Explore, Jami’s hubs, or connect through our befriending programmes, Jewish Care’s online JC Presents or Jami’s community programme, they enjoy a warm sense of belonging with opportunities to develop vital social connections which have a positive impact on their quality of life. Many are isolated and live alone and we provide a safe space where people can be themselves and feel a sense of belonging as part of a big family. Serving good food means they are nourished, physically, mentally, emotionally and culturally.
Activities aim to enable members to keep active, expand interests, boost creativity and lift their spirits. We give people choice and flexibility on timings and transport so they can self-select their day with us and stay independent and in control. They will come in to do pottery, Tai Chi, table tennis, Bridge, Kalooki, linedancing, exercise, and discussion groups, led by topics our members choose. Sometimes our members may like to sit and read the paper with a coffee.
Jami’s hubs, our community programme at Head Room café, community groups and Compeer befriending services, headed up by Emma Reynolds, Jami’s Senior Mental Health Volunteering & Social Engagement Manager, also provide informal practical and emotional support. They offer meaningful activities and opportunities to connect, through creative writing, painting, music appreciation sessions, walks to the local park, board games, sing-alongs, mindfulness sessions and more.
If a person’s needs change, we support them and may refer them to our Social Work and Community Support Team or Jami’s Community Mental Health Team. We also support family carers, through our Family Carers Teams and support groups.
The main aim across all our services is for people to return home, after spending time with us, feeling appreciated and supported.
The spotlight shone on The Jewish Care’s Sam Beckman Centre Choir as they successfully sang their way into the finals of ‘Care Sectors Got Talent’, organised by Championing Social Care, at Coventry Building Society Arena in April. The competition celebrates the talents of residents and care home workers within the care sector. The choir travelled from The Betty and Asher Loftus Centre to sing live to the audience, before going on to win the award for ‘Most Promising Act’ in the national final.
Tanya Miller, Jewish Care’s Community Hub Manager in North London, who spearheaded the idea to enter the choir into the competition, said: “We are so proud of our choir members for showcasing their hard work and talent with the wider community and reaching the finals. Their dedication is truly admirable.
“We know that music and singing has huge benefits for people living with dementia. It helps to support and maintain cognitive abilities, reduce anxiety, boost confidence, stimulate memories, help maintain speech and language, as well as allowing people to express themselves, enjoy social interaction and have fun, which our members most definitely do!
“It’s very important to us that we support and empower people living with dementia to continue to do the things they have loved throughout their lives, as well as to enjoy learning new skills that stimulate them and help to instil confidence.”
Making Jewish life accessible for every Jewish Care resident
When people move into our care homes and Retirement Living Schemes or attend our community centres, we support them to celebrate their Judaism in ways that work for them,” says Richard Shone, Jewish Care’s Director of Community Services, Volunteering, Social Work & Hospitality. “It’s one of the reasons why people choose our services and what sets us apart.”
A meaningful Shabbat experience, with Friday night Kiddush and Shabbat morning services, together with the preparation and celebration of Jewish festivals and significant days in the Jewish calendar, are all part of life in all our care homes and Retirement Living schemes.
Our Pastoral and Spiritual Lead, Rabbi Menachem Junik, runs weekly Friday afternoon Shabbat services on Zoom and regularly visits and spends time with our residents, tenants, and community centre members. He enables those we support to connect spiritually, culturally and emotionally with their Judaism.
Ilana Greenblatt, Jewish Culture and Faith Manager, says, “At Jewish Care we pride ourselves on being inclusive and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their specific Jewish affiliation, can connect with their heritage, culture, and identity in a meaningful and personal way. Our Shabbat morning services are thoughtfully designed to connect with our residents and tenants, fostering a sense of community and belonging. In some homes, the service is adapted to align more closely with residents’ personal practices. This approach, known as the ‘Jewish Care way,’ prioritises the needs and desires of our residents, ensuring that everyone feels included and valued.”
One regular attendee at Shabbat morning services at Vi & John Rubens House care home is Sylvia Levy. She says: “I like going because they bring back happy memories of when I used to go to shul. I lived across the road to one and always enjoyed it. Services here are easy-
going and bring people together, which is a very nice feeling. They are held in the lounge which is accessible for everyone.”
Stephen Shelton has volunteered for 15 years and is one of an amazing group of volunteers who lead weekly Kiddush, Shabbat and Yom Tov services. He explains, “We talk about the Sedra and Haftorah of the week and about the festivals coming up. It’s an interactive service so anyone can get involved if they want to.”
Across the care homes, services are shorter than a traditional service, making them more manageable. A specially adapted Siddur, produced by Jewish Care in April 2024 and now being introduced across our care homes, is also helping to make Shabbat more inclusive and accessible to our residents.
The Siddur’s font is large, with colourful pages and imagery. The inclusion of line numbers makes it easier for people to follow the service, volunteers to lead it, and carers to assist. Hebrew, transliteration and an English translation, which is also gender neutral, together with beautiful, large colour illustrations, help to give everyone a personalised, inclusive experience. The Siddur is more user-friendly for those living with visual impairment and dementia, enabling greater engagement in the services. Stephen adds, “Some residents haven’t had Yiddishkeit in their lives for years but are now able to enjoy it once again.”
Anita Boston, a resident at Anita Dorfman House care home at Sandringham, says, “It gives directions for what to do in an inclusive way and doesn’t assume that everyone is able to stand. It’s very good to have the translation, and the lines numbers make it easy to follow. The print is good too, so you don’t have to squint. I love the Siddur.”
Record turnout at Topland Group Business Lunch
Athousand guests gathered at the Grosvenor House earlier this year for the 36th Topland Group Business Lunch, raising a record-breaking amount of £435,000.
The guest speaker, The Right Honourable Lord Cameron, The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth & Development
Affairs and former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, was interviewed by Lord Finkelstein OBE, former Executive Editor and current columnist for The Times newspaper.
David Pollock, Topland Group Business Lunch Chairman, said, “Most of Jewish Care’s services receive no government funding, and the cost to provide care services has
significantly increased. I’d like to thank our guest speakers and guests whose support enables Jewish Care to continue to meet the needs of our community. We are truly grateful for the hard work of the Committee, the generous sponsorship of the Topland Group Business Lunch by Sol and Eddie Zakay, and the support of Allsop LLP and BKL.”
Young Patrons support for Jewish Care
We welcomed over 350 guests to our Young Patrons Dinner at The Londoner Hotel raising over £110,000 to help support Jewish Care’s vital services.
Guests heard from Fiona Mendel, who shared her family’s moving story of how Jewish Care was there for her parents at the end of their lives.
Ellisa Estrin, Director of Fundraising & Marketing, said, “Jewish Care needed to raise almost £17 million this year to help keep services like our community centres, our centres for people living with dementia, bereavement services, social work and community support team and so many more, running. The Young Patrons Dinner will help us to achieve that goal and we are grateful for this generous support.
“I’d like to thank Fiona for sharing her experiences with so many young people. Our Young Patrons Dinner Committee and Young Jewish Care Chair, Nicole Ashton, the Committee, and our guests, have shown they care about older members of the community and have seized the opportunity to make the lives of those we support, a little better and brighter.”
Joint Pesach appeal for jewish Care and Jami
We thank the community for donating to our first joint appeal since the integration of Jewish Care and Jami, raising awareness and funds to help us to respond to the unprecedented mental health challenge facing our community, especially for younger people,” says Ellisa Estrin, Director of Fundraising & Marketing.
Thousands of people between the ages of 11 and 100+ are now living with, or caring for, someone for whom mental illness, distress or trauma makes everyday life a struggle. This rises to 55% of 18–25-year-olds.
The appeal highlighted a range of vital services – from Jami’s Children and Young Person’s service, offering one-to-one support in a safe, nonjudgemental space, to Jewish Care’s residential care homes, supporting adults who find it difficult to cope in the community.
After 11 years of a unique partnership, Jewish Care and Jami’s integration in April ensures that services for people living with mental illness, distress or trauma, now and in the future, are sustainable and secured to meet the changing needs of the community effectively.
For more information about Jami’s mental health services, see jamiuk.org and to donate, visit jamiuk.org/donate or 020 8922 2600.
Annual Dinner raises
£5.3
million for Jewish Care
An inspiring evening saw almost 1,000 guests celebrating the warmth, care and impact of Jewish Care’s wide-ranging services.
Lay leaders gave heartfelt thanks to guests and all those in the community whose generosity enables us to continue to provide vital support to thousands of people in the Jewish community each day.
The evening raised £5.3 million to go towards meeting the increased annual target of £20 million which we need to raise now that the scope of our work has grown since mental health charity, Jami, joined the Jewish Care family.
The Rt Honourable Sir Keir Starmer, Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Labour Party, sent an inspiring video message of support describing Jewish Care as “an exemplar of social care in our country.”
“It’s not just about the physical care that you give to people, although this is foundational and part of the dignity and respect that people deserve. It’s about caring for the entire person, being a community with a common identity, and shared history based on the cherished belief in the worth and value of every person in a way that treats people with dignity and respect, recognising their humanity and honouring their wishes. It’s also about treating carers fairly and properly recognising their contribution and value.
“Jewish Care is a direct reflection of the Jewish tradition of being there for others as a community, being together, sharing love and wisdom across the generations. It’s profoundly moving.”
Guest speaker, Wes Streeting MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, was introduced by The Lord Levy, Jewish Care’s Life President.
Addressing guests, Wes Streeting MP said, “When I think of what great care looks like, I think of Jewish Care. I’m so proud to celebrate the extraordinary work of Jewish Care –the powerful acts of service across Jewish Care by the staff
and the volunteers that happen out of the spotlight every day – and your contributions to Jewish life, not just to the community but to our whole social care sector. It’s the enduring commitment to service that makes the organisation loved by so many Jewish families.”
Welcoming guests to the evening, Holocaust survivor, Manfred Goldberg BEM is one of the 300 Holocaust survivors Jewish Care supports across our services. Manfred said, “It has never been more important to come together as a Jewish community, to be proud, to celebrate, to sing and to shout about our Jewishness and for organisations like Jewish Care to shine its Jewish light into the lives of thousands of people and their families. The Holocaust Survivors’ Centre is a haven for me and so many others.”
Life President, The Lord Levy, invited guests on a journey looking back almost 200 years tracing Jewish Care’s history (see Meet the Family feature, page 4). The Lord Levy also told guests, “It has never been more important for our community to stand together, and Jewish Care sets that example. We care. Jewish Care continues to be the beacon that social care providers across the world both look up to and respect. Employing 1,300 staff, made up of many nationalities and many faiths, we are proud to be a London Living Wage employer. Jewish Care has cared for generations and will continue to be there for those that need us.”
He also paid special tribute to Angela Duran, Rosetrees care manager, who has worked for the organisation for 50 years.
Ellisa Estrin, Jewish Care’s Director of Fundraising & Marketing, added, “We are so grateful to all of our guests for supporting us at a time when the challenges, and the need for care has never been greater. It means a lot to know that you are there for Jewish Care, so we can be there for the community.”
Befriending Life Stories
It’s wonderful to read to Mina and have time with her,” says Sharan Gill, describing her befriending experience. Together, Sharan and Mina Semyon are reading the book that Mina has written about her life, though she is no longer able to read it herself. Sharan explains, “For me, it is unique that Mina is the author of the book we are reading together. It’s been fascinating. It is my first connection with an author and very exciting for me! Mina was a child in the reign of Stalin and she vividly remembers all of that.”
Through Mina’s book and in their befriending sessions, Sharan has learnt how Mina settled into a new life in Britain and also travelled. She says, “It’s been like going through the passages of time and healing together. She talks about when they had to clap for Stalin and when she had to leave her
parents behind. I was struck by the very emotional scene of Mina’s father kissing her for the last time. It feels like I’ve been able to relive her childhood with her and I think that makes her feel more connected to her past. We have laughed together and cried together. I’m excited to read the next book together, which we’ve chosen based on our mutual interests.”
“YOU CAN LEARN SO MUCH AND ENJOY SUCH A MEANINGFUL FRIENDSHIP.”
Mina’s daughter, Kira, adds that Mina “feels good” after her sessions with Sharan.
Talking about befriending, Sharan reflects, “You feel you are going there for someone else, but it ends up being for you. You can have interesting conversations about experiences and you can learn so much and enjoy such a meaningful friendship.”
Jewish Care and Jami’s volunteer befrienders call or visit members of the community over 2,000 times every month.
To find out more about becoming a befriender, call 020 8922 2340, email Befriending@jcare.org or visit jewishcare.org/volunteer.
Jami, now part of Jewish Care, is also looking for volunteers for its Compeer befriending programme. Contact Sophie.chappel@jamiuk.org, call 020 8458 2223 or visit jamiuk.org/compeer-volunteer
Pioneering DementiAbility
Kun Mor and George Kiss Home at The Betty and Asher Loftus Centre is the first care home in the UK to receive DementiAbility accreditation.
“It is great to see the residents being encouraged and supported to remain in control of their daily choices and activities each day. The smiles on their face and the improved mental wellbeing we have observed is evidence that DementiAbility is working positively,” says Yomi Essiet, Registered Manager.
The pioneering programme that delivers enhanced, person-centred, dementia care has also seen Jewish Care recognised as Finalist in the national Care Home Awards and The Dementia Care Awards.
Our Dementia Practitioners, Penny
Johns and Tamer Ali, have also been training care and hospitality staff at our Vi & John Rubens House care home in the Canadian-born programme.
DementiAbility empowers staff to make connections between the individual, their life story, behaviour and the environment by identifying personalised opportunities to create stimulating activities for residents, supporting fulfilment and autonomy. Offering a breakfast buffet, practical and purposeful tailored tasks and inviting residents to doll therapy, connecting them with nurturing memories and emotions, are among the innovative techniques staff have introduced.
At an accreditation
ceremony at Kun Mor and George Kiss Home, Rachel Jones, Director of Care & Housing Services, and Yomi Essiet presented staff with certificates whilst resident, Melvyn, proudly unveiled the DementiAbility plaque. Jewish Care CEO, Daniel Carmel-Brown, says, “I’m so proud of our dedicated staff who are leading the way in creating an engaging and stimulating care home environment for people living with dementia.”
A good move to award-winning Retirement Living
Barbara, 77, has been a tenant at Jewish Care’s Wohl Court Retirement Living in Hendon for the past three years. Barbara grew up in Manchester and has lived in London for ten years. Her happiest memory is getting married and having her three children and she is now also a proud grandma to six grandchildren. Barbara started as a volunteer at Wohl Court when it first opened, and liked it so much, she decided to make it her home.
“Moving to Wohl Court changed my life,” says Barbara.
“There is a warmth and a wonderful sense of camaraderie here. The staff are amazing, they feel like my friends. The surroundings are beautiful. I really feel that this is my home, it’s where I am meant to be.”
Jewish Care’s Senior Housing Manager, Horace Boston, says, “Our award-winning Retirement Living apartments offer the opportunity to be part of an active, vibrant community in later life, with the added benefit of 24-hour support on hand when you need it.”
The beautifully finished, secure, purpose-built, CQC regulated apartments for individuals or couples from 60 plus offer a unique blend of stylish housing with tailormade care and support.”
The Associated Retirement Community Operators see our schemes at Pears Court at Sandringham, Selig Court at the Maurice and Vivienne Wohl Campus in Golders Green and Wohl Court in Hendon “as a model of modern-living and integrated care, setting an industry standard.”
At our Shebson Lodge Retirement Living in Southend, there’s the added benefit of being by the sea with the Southend & Westcliff Jewish Community Centre on site.
To find out more about our Retirement Living schemes or arrange a viewing, visit jewishcare.org/retirementliving call 020 8922 2222 or email helpline@jcare.org
The Tree of Life
The words ‘In loving Memory of Peter Colman, A man of principle, mentor to many’ are inscribed on a leaf on our Tree of Life at Michael Sobell Jewish Community Centre at the Maurice and Vivienne Wohl Centre, where Peter z’l worked for Jewish Care for over 30 years.
Peter also loved to spend time with his family, his wife Josephine, four children and ten grandchildren. Peter’s wife Josephine explains, “We wanted to find a way to say thank you in gratitude for the many years that Peter enjoyed during his time working at Jewish Care, mentoring and advising his colleagues.
“I know how much it meant to him, starting from the Finchley offices of the
Jewish Welfare Board, to be part of the organisation going from strength to strength. It was wonderful to hear the tributes paid to Peter at a special dedication in his memory.”
A trustee of the Jewish Museum, Peter gave time to the Jewish Volunteering Network and was an active member of Borehamwood &
Elstree Synagogue before moving to Welwyn Garden City, continuing his involvement in community life.
Sarit Simon, Legacy and Giving in Memory Lead, says, “Peter was a dear friend to Jewish Care and a devoted employee. We thank Josephine and the family for adding a leaf to the Tree of Life in his memory.
“Making a donation in memory of a loved one is a special way to celebrate their life, and to show appreciation and connection with charity. It is also a meaningful way to express gratitude for the kindness received by relatives in our care homes or community centres.”
To find out more about Giving in Memory, remembering a loved one with a personalised Yahrzeit candle holder or a leaf on the Tree of Life, contact Sarit on 020 8922 2819 or givinginmemory@jcare.org or visit jewishcare.org/give-in-memory.
Turn your celebration into a Mitzvah for Jewish Care
70TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Beryl & Derek Roston
60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Rabbi Leon & Mrs Rita Benarroch
Jackie & Melvyn Carlowe
Barbara & Irvine Creme
Audrey & Phil Phillips
Rhea & Stan Posner
Jackie & Stephen Rose
50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Tova & Lewis Citron
Sir Lloyd Dorfman CVO CBE & Lady Sarah Dorfman OBE
Barbara & Alan Edwards
Elaine & Paul Finesilver
Sue & David Gouldman
Sue & Rob Jackson
Estelle & John Lawrence
Rev Avrom & Mrs Roz Levin
Arlene & Stuart Swead
45TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Anna & Alex Fleischmann
25TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Sharon & Tony Blacker
Aviva & John Wilford
WEDDING
Talia Jacobs & Grant Gischen
Deborah & David Kahn
2ND BAR MITZVAH
Brian Goldich
Don Ross
BIRTHDAY
Steven Baruch
Harvey Berg
Marie Blumenfeld
Zara Brickman FRSA MBE
Sonia Burns
John Chart
Sandra Cohen
Yvonne Cohen
Eric Deacon
Maureen Diamond
Joan Epstein
Paulene Frankel
Rachel Freedman
Louis Frenkel
Maureen Gold
Ruth Green
Patricia Groden
Stanley Grundman
Louise Heilbron
Rabbi Michael Heilbron
Gill Herman
Helena Hockley
Rita Holman
Derek Horwood
Nettie Keene
Lauren Kraftman
Jack Lessing
Beryl Levy
Leon Lixenberg
Anita Macatonia
Ella Marks
George Myrants
Cyril Newman
Audrey Phillips
Debbie Primost
Marilyn Pyser
Evelyn Rich
Iris Rose
Cyril Savage
Victor Shack
Anna-Mae Silver
Pam Solomon
Shirley Spitz
Daphne Taylor
Peter Wiseman
Angela Woolf
Joyce Young
IN CELEBRATION
Leonard Klahr – on making Aliyah
Roseruth & Alan Webber – on the marriage of Gabi & Aron
IN THANKS
Gerry Benson
Sorelle & Richard Kafton
Rabbi Steven Katz
Judy & Alan Keller
Susan Sperber-Kosky
Lyndon Wagman
Malcolm and Linda Ginsberg celebrated their Golden Anniversary with Jewish Care in 2023.
Celebrate with Jewish Care donations are a vital source of funds for the services we offer the community. In this way we raise over £80,000 per year. Please think about asking people to donate to Jewish Care to mark your happy occasion.
For more information call the Celebrate with Jewish Care Team on 020 8922 2600 or email celebrate@jcare.org
You can be beyond incredible in the future
Corinne Kaye wanted to honour her parents, Helen and Sidney Lazarus z’l, and show gratitude for the warmth and care her father received at Vi & John Ruben’s House care home in Gants Hill. Her mother, Helen, was a home maker; intelligent and bright. Sidney was a well-known and respected GP, who was awarded an MBE for his services to forensic medicine.
Corinne says, “My mum always felt immense gratitude towards Jewish Care after my father, Dr Sidney Lazarus, was diagnosed with dementia. My father attended Redbridge Jewish Community Centre twice a week and as his illness progressed, he was cared for at Vi & John Ruben’s House care home in Gants Hill for some respite care at points where my mum needed some time to herself. He passed away in 2019 from a related illness.
“Mum changed her Will to include a gift of 10% of her estate to Jewish Care, with mine and my sister’s blessing. My mother sadly passed away on 31 May 2021.” Corinne, together with her partner Len, placed a plaque on a bench at Southend & Westcliff Jewish Community Centre, in memory of her parents.
Sarit Simon, Jewish Care’s Legacy & Giving in Memory Lead, said, “I would like to thank Corinne and Helen.
“Planning for the future and using our Free Wills Service can bring you greater peace of mind, knowing that your family will be aware of your wishes. There is no obligation. However, if you do choose to leave a gift to Jewish Care, you will be doing something beyond incredible, helping to ensure that our vital services continue to be there for others in the future.”
To find out more, please visit our Future Giving page at jewishcare.org/futuregiving Contact Sarit on 020 8922 2819 or email legacyteam@jcare.org to arrange a no obligation meeting or a visit to one of our campuses.
Support in the South
We want to find out what’s most important to people and support their needs,” says Stephen Ison, Jewish Care’s Community Support Practitioner for the South London and Southern Counties Social Work and Community Support Service, which is based at Nightingale House in Clapham.
Stephen works with Jodie Sacks, Senior Community Social Worker and Community Outreach Co-ordinator, who is based in Brighton. Together, Jodie and Stephen are in contact with over 100 clients each year through the Southern branch of our Social Work and Community Support Team.
“Our main concern is enabling Jewish people in our regions to live their best life,” explains Stephen. “We assess a person’s situation thoroughly, give appropriate advice and information, offer advocacy, and help with arranging support.”
This service covers all South London boroughs and the South-East of England – from Bromley to Brighton; Kingston to Canterbury, and extends to anyone living outside Greater London, Hertfordshire and Essex.
“Referrals come from a variety of sources, including rabbis, family, friends, voluntary and statutory organisations, or the person themselves,” explains Jodie. “People may be facing isolation, financial difficulty, health challenges or changes to their ability to perform daily living tasks. It is our role to sensitively assess and support them to understand how best their needs can be met. We also work closely with other organisations, as well as offering carer support.”
Stephen says, “I work closely with many Jewish and non-Jewish organisations, including Age UK, the Alzheimer’s Society, and social work teams across the South-East.”
“We always go the extra mile to ensure that our clients are effectively supported and advocated for,” adds Jodie. “Our aim is to understand their needs and wishes, but often simple actions make the biggest difference.”
Ask us a question
Q: My wife and I are quite independent though I had to stop driving due to health issues. We’ve talked about moving somewhere we can retain our independence with a bit of support. Can you tell us more about affordability?
A: It sounds like now is a good time to investigate choices for independent living with support. Our Living with Jewish Care team and Housing Officers can talk to you and your wife, with her consent, about the various options available, including joining one of our Retirement Living communities.
You can look at our Retirement Living apartments online, take a virtual tour and read our key facts document, which has plenty of helpful information available, including a guide to the costs involved for our market rent and affordable housing options.
Our fully accessible and modern ARCO-regulated Retirement Living apartments enable independent, active living in a supportive and inclusive Jewish environment. They are great places to pursue current interests and find new ones. Benefits include increasing support as needed and being part of a sociable, stimulating community with your own front door, as well as peace of mind from a 24-hour concierge and on-call support team on site should you need it.
Q: I’m worried because my dad had a fall and broke his hip and is now in hospital. He is 80 and we don’t know what happens next.
A: It’s understandable that you are worried about your father and what happens next. You can call our Jewish Care Direct helpline to talk to one of our advisors and, with his consent, we can support you both to navigate this difficult time. Our Family Carers Team may also be able to give you support.
In the hospital, there may have been contact from a meeting coordinator to set up a meeting to talk about discharging him from the hospital. If you are unsure as to whether this has happened, our social work and carers team can get in touch with the hospital to confirm whether a discharge meeting has taken place.
We advise you to talk to someone on the ward and ask to speak to a discharge coordinator about an enablement package. Once the NHS team assesses that your father is fit enough to leave hospital, they can send him home but they have a duty to check what kind of support he needs when he leaves the hospital. The discharge team put the support package in place if it’s needed. This could include an Occupational Therapist, carers, or assisting with making necessary adaptations to make home accessible.
Your dad may not be able to take the stairs so they could talk to you about adapting the downstairs to a bedroom and bringing any equipment you need into the home. They may plan to send him to a step-down rehabilitation unit before going home, so it’s good to check if that is their plan.
It’s important to have this conversation while he is still in hospital as once a patient is discharged, they no longer fall under the NHS. After discharge from hospital, you come under the local community adult social work team.
I hope this helps you to navigate a way forward. Our Jewish Care Direct helpline advisors are here to support you and your dad if you would like to get in touch.
Q: My 90yearold mother is in hospital and is now living with me. I think she needs more care and rehabilitation and am not sure where to turn.
A: I’m sorry to hear that your mother has had a fall, which sounds like it has had a stressful impact on you both. It’s good that you have asked to identify support and you can call our Jewish Care Direct helpline to talk to one of our advisors about the best ways to support you both. Our Family Carers Team can also give you one-to-one or group support.
It may be that short-term respite placement in one of our care homes is a good option for a few months so that your mother can receive personalised care while she recovers her strength after the fall.
Our Jewish Care Direct helpline advisors will take the time to listen and understand your needs and, with her permission, can refer you to our Social Work and Community Support Team. They can provide support and advice and help you to navigate the right support for you and your mother. Our Living with Jewish Care team can give advice on respite care. You could check with our Benefits Team whether there are Department of Work and Pensions welfare benefits that your mum might be entitled to, such as Attendance Allowance.
Jewish Care’s free confidential helpline provides advice and information about support on offer either from Jewish Care or other local service providers. Call 020 8922 2222, email helpline@jcare.org or visit jewishcare.org
Q: I’m worried about my grownup son who seems to be struggling with his mental health. I want to get him help, and fortunately he has agreed to this, but I don’t know where to turn. I can’t afford to pay for support. Can Jami still help and, if so, how?
A: We know that caring for someone with mental health problems can really take its toll on us and that finding support can be extremely challenging. But please know you are not alone and that we will try to support you both.
Since your son has given you permission to contact us, you can make a referral for him over the phone or via our website.
Jami isn’t a crisis service. So, if you need emergency support, we will encourage you to contact statutory services. If we feel that Jami doesn’t have the right services to support your son or if you mention any support he requires that Jami does not provide, we will signpost to other communal organisations or relevant agencies.
Within 7–10 working days of the referral, our Duty team will contact your son by phone or email to discuss his situation and see which Jami services best meet his needs. Because Jami provides one-to-one, group, family and carer support too, we can help you and your family to manage more easily and feel less isolated.
It may help to know that our community programme at Head Room, Jami’s social enterprise café in Golders Green, is available to everyone in the community and provides free mental health support.
Other than Talking Therapies, the rest of Jami’s mental health services are free, thanks to the generosity of the community whose donations help fund them.
To find out more about the vital services Jami offers, please call 020 8458 2223, email info@jamiuk.org or visit jamiuk.org/get–support
Q: My mum is living with dementia. We have made adaptations at home but she is falling a lot and the home care isn’t enough. We want to find a care home, but we are worried that she doesn’t have finances to be there long term.
A: It is good to plan ahead and recognising that your mum may need more support in the future is a positive step. The adjustments you’ve made to improve her quality of life in her own home sound like they’ve been helpful in maintaining her independence up until now.
Our Living with Jewish Care team can support you and your family to explore residential care options. After listening to and understanding your mum’s needs, we can recommend the most suitable care homes, and arrange a visit for you to look around them, to support you with your future or immediate care-planning decisions.
It’s important to take the time to explore all the care options. There are three pathways when it comes to care home costs – self-funding, NHS funding or Local Authority funding, which will be dependent on your mum’s care needs and financial circumstances.
If your mum moves into a care home as a self-funder and her money and assets later reach the government set threshold of £23,250, she would be entitled to approach her Local Authority for funding to continue to receive care in the care home. The Local Authority would assess her finances and carry out a care needs assessment and would agree a rate of funding directly with the care home provider. There may be things to consider, such as her client contribution payments towards her care, set by the Local Authority, and any family top-up payments.
The Care Act gives you the right to a free needs assessment from your council, even if your finances are too high for financial support, or your needs are too low to qualify for care home placement funding. If financial assistance is required, or finances are tied up in a property that would need to be sold, a needs assessment is an important first step, as it gives an outline of the type of care and support needed and what the Local Authority will fund.
I hope this gives you some of the information you were looking for and helps you to make decisions about the next steps for you and your family, in finding the right care. Our Family Carers Team is also available and may be able to help you to identify any benefits you may be eligible for and how to apply for them.
You can find out more about funding a care home placement at jewishcare.org/fees-and-funding-guide and you can use our Cost of Care calculator to find out more about fees or by contacting Jewish Care Direct.
A guide to what we do
Wolfson Assisted Living, Sandringham Stanmore/Hertfordshire, residential care
Sunridge Court, Golders Green, residential care
CAMPUSES
The Betty and Asher Loftus Centre, Friern Barnet
SERVICES ON SITE INCLUDE:
Kun Mor and George Kiss Home, Stella & Harry Freedman House, Rosetrees care homes, The Sam Beckman Centre for people living with dementia and Connect@Friern Barnet
Maurice and Vivienne Wohl Campus, Golders Green
SERVICES ON SITE INCLUDE:
Holocaust Survivors’ Centre, Jewish Care Explore, Michael Sobell Jewish Community Centre, Otto Schiff, Selig Court and Amélie House
Sandringham, Stanmore/ Hertfordshire
SERVICES ON SITE INCLUDE:
Anita Dorfman House, Wolfson Assisted Living, Pears Court, Jewish Care Explore, The Ronson Family Community Centre and The Zalman and Ruchi Noé Centre for people living with dementia
CARE HOMES
Offering high-quality residential, nursing, dementia, mental health and end of life care in an environment that promotes meaningful lives.
Anita Dorfman House, Sandringham Stanmore/Hertfordshire, residential, dementia and nursing care
Jack Gardner House, Golders Green, residential and mental health care
Kun Mor and George Kiss Home, Friern Barnet residential and dementia care
Otto Schiff, Golders Green, Residential and dementia care
Rosetrees, Friern Barnet, Residential and dementia care
Sidney Corob House, West Hampstead, residential and Mental Health Care
Stella & Harry Freedman House, Friern Barnet, residential, dementia and nursing care
Vi & John Rubens House, Ilford, residential, dementia and nursing care
RETIREMENT LIVING
Offering independent living within a supportive setting.
Pears Court, Sandringham Stanmore/ Hertfordshire
Wohl Court, Hendon
Selig Court, Golders Green
Shebson Lodge, Southend
CARE HOME RELATIVE SUPPORT GROUPS
Anita Dorfman House & Wolfson Assisted Living at Sandringham Relatives Support Group, online
Vi & John Rubens House Relatives & Friends Support Group, online
CENTRES FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA
Provide stimulation and therapeutic activities in a safe and fun environment.
The Dennis Centre, Ilford
The Zalman and Ruchi Noé Centre, Sandringham, Stanmore/Hertfordshire
The Sam Beckman Centre, Friern Barnet
COMMUNITY CENTRES
Our community centres provide stimulating social and leisure activities and delicious meals.
The Brenner Stepney Jewish Community Centre
Michael Sobell Jewish Community Centre, Golders Green
Redbridge Jewish Community Centre, currently located at Woodford Forest United Synagogue
Southend and Westcliff Jewish Community Centre
The Ronson Family Community Centre, Sandringham, Stanmore/Hertfordshire
CONNECT@ CENTRES
Offering a choice of cultural, social and leisure pursuits, for the young@heart.
Connect@Friern Barnet
Connect@Kenton*
Connect@Stamford Hill**
HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS’ AND REFUGEE SERVICES
The Holocaust Survivors’ Centre is a place for survivors to meet, with specially designed activities. Shalvata provides for the therapeutic needs of survivors and their families.
Holocaust Survivors’ Centre, Golders Green, within the Michael Sobell Jewish Community Centre
Shalvata, Golders Green, within the Michael Sobell Jewish Community Centre
Tea parties for Holocaust Survivors in volunteers’ homes
Monthly support sessions, Redbridge
JC PRESENTS
Online programme of activities and events with a wide range of stimulating virtual activities and events including speakers, discussion and exercise, available to access online. To find out more email jcpresents@jcare.org
SOCIAL WORK AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICE
An experienced team supporting individuals, families, carers and communities by enabling people to make a meaningful difference to their lives, with dignity and choice. The team can support you and work with you to identify and plan for the support, care or services you need, advise, co-ordinate and act on your behalf with local authorities, navigate end of life care and signpost you to other helpful services. Whether you require support yourself or are a family carer, we are here for you.
MEALS-ON-WHEELS
An extensive nutritious ‘Kosher meals at home’ service in Redbridge, Southend, Stamford Hill and across NW London. A range of pureed foods is available for those living with dysphagia.
BEFRIENDING
Companionship and friendship in person or on the phone to relieve loneliness and isolation across London, Essex and Hertfordshire.
DIGITAL SERVICES
JEWISH CARE EXPLORE
offers digital skills for everyday life and support with technology for all adults within the Jewish community and on dedicated technology for a disability or medical condition (subject to assessment). Maurice & Vivienne Wohl Campus, Golders Green
The Ronson Family Community Centre, Sandringham, Stanmore/Hertfordshire For more information contact explore@jcare.org or 020 8922 2400.
SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY GROUPS
Informal social groups to bring communities together, build friendships, in person and Zoom. Call 020 8922 2273 or scjewishcare@jcare.org
Chaps That Chat, monthly at Michael Sobell Jewish Community Centre, contact ronit.bennooncarol@jcare.org
Chaps that Chat, monthly social discussion group with speaker, Redbridge
Chaps that Chat, weekly social discussion group – Zoom
Chatty Café on Zoom – weekly meet on Zoom for coffee and chat Chatty Café meet for coffee and chat @Costa Coffee Temple Fortune, Sababa Borehamwood, Chabad Buckhurst Hill and The Garrison Southend Community Café’s, informal social groups in person to build friendships at Michael Sobell Jewish Community Centre and Sandringham Knit, Stitch and Natter –
Wellbeing group for beginners or experts on Zoom
Men’s Talk, fortnightly discussion group at Sandringham, contact ronit.bennooncarol@jcare.org
Men’s Talk – Fortnightly discussion group for Redbridge men
Pop In – Join this friendly group for a weekly chat on Zoom
Tea Parties, Essex, NE London, NW London, Middlesex and Hertfordshire Tea parties for Holocaust survivors in volunteers’ homes
Ukulele Club, weekly, Redbridge Jewish Community Centre
Women’s Hour, Borehamwood, monthly
SUPPORT AND SOCIAL GROUPS
CARER SUPPORT GROUPS
Caring For You, Online, second Thursday of each month, email caringforyou@jcare.org
Caring For Them, Online, First Wednesday of each month, email caringforthem@jcare.org
Dementia Carers Tea, Third Wednesday of the month at The Sam Beckman Centre, every 6th Monday at Vi & John Rubens House and soon to be launching at Sandringham. Email ccharles@jcare.org
COMMUNITY DEMENTIA GROUPS
Art for the Memory, Golders Green Elevenses, Golders Green
Memory Way Café, Golders Green, Edgware, Stanmore/Hertfordshire, Kingston
Movement for Memory, Golders Green Singing Together, online Singing for Memory, Finchley*** St Albans, Southend, Stanmore/ Hertfordshire, Redbridge
SUPPORT GROUPS
JEMS, In partnership with JBD – JEMS, In partnership with JBD – Jewish Blind & Disabled. A warm, supportive community for Jewish people living with MS, family and friends. Parkinson’s Wellbeing Group, online Singular Challenge, Golders Green for people separated from marriage or long-term relationships
SOCIAL GROUPS
JCS for singles, Sandringham MSJCC New Faces for people with visual impairment or physical disability, Edgware
Sunday Socials, Redbridge
Thursday Social Club, Redbridge Parkinson’s Social Group, Golders Green
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS
Peace of Mind @ Sandringham
A safe, friendly support group for those experiencing grief or bereavement of any kind. First Monday of every month. oliver.danes@jcare.org or 020 8418 2107
Jewish Bereavement Counselling Service (JBCS) support groups meet in Golders Green. For further information please contact JBCS on 020 8951 3881or email enquiries@jbcs.org.uk
AfterShock For young adults (18-30) who have lost a parent
Bereaved Parents For people bereaved of an adult child
Butterflies For mums and dads (of young children) who have lost a parent
Stepping Stones For people (40-60) who have lost a partner
Stronger Together For people (60+) who have lost a partner
JAMI MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Jami is here for when mental illness, distress and trauma makes everyday life a struggle. Expert support provided by people with lived experience Jami guides young people and adults through their mental health recovery, supports families and carers, and educates community leaders.
Contact Jami on 020 8458 2223 or visit jamiuk.org
ADVICE, ADVOCACY AND SIGNPOSTING
Hubs – programme of activities and group support in Finchley, Redbridge and Hackney communities
Befriending – in-person/telephone befriending and hospital visiting volunteers
Carer and family support – group and one-to-one practical and emotional support for parents and siblings, contact carers@jamiuk.org
Children and young people –in school support at JCoSS and JFS for 11-25-year-olds
Education – specialist training and consultation for community leaders including Mental Health First Aid Training
Head Room café – social enterprise café available to hire, free community programme, onsite befriending
One-to-one/group support –delivered by occupational therapists, social workers, mental health practitioners and peer support workers. Talking Therapies –a nonjudgemental, safe space
Vocational support – with finding and retaining work, volunteering and courses
Mazel tov! Jewish Care loves celebrating. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, anniversary, bar or bat mitzvah, in fact any special occasion, we know how wonderful it is to mark life’s big moments.
Choosing to ask for donations instead of gifts is a meaningful way to acknowledge your simcha and make it even more special.
Every donation made towards Jewish Care will help support the 1 ,000 people whose lives we touch every week.
To find out more please visit jewishcare.org/celebrate or call us on 020 8922 2600
“I wish I’d known about volunteering at Jewish Care sooner, so I could have made even more of a difference.”
We are looking for dedicated volunteers to join our amazing team. IF YOU NEED GUIDANCE, SUPPORT OR INFORMATION WITH A HUMAN FACE
To find out how to become a Jewish Care volunteer call 020 8922 2405, email volunteering@jcare.org or visit jewishcare.org/volunteer
Our Helpline can help you find the answers to the most challenging problems. We can tell you about our services: care homes, community centres, support for people living with dementia and their families or online events and activities. And if we can’t help you ourselves, we’ll help you find someone who can.
So if you need advice with a human face, call 020 8922 2222, email helpline@jcare.org or visit jewishcare.org
When Don celebrated his 90th Birthday, he and his wife Louise were delighted to ask family and friends for donations to Jewish Care instead of gifts