Welfare

Chesed (Kindness) is at the heart of HGSS life, and is reflected in the array of activities that take place throughout the community on a daily, weekly, monthly and annual basis.

We take the welfare of our congregants, young and old, exceptionally seriously and we will do everything we can to help, whenever we can.

In the first instance, we would ask that if you are looking for assistance or know of someone in the community who may need support of any kind you can contact the shul office on 020 8455 8126 or by email.

Nefesh

Nefesh Network is a helpline run by the community for members of the community.  It was launched in 2006 and has grown exponentially since then.

The Nefesh Network offers a confidential service of practical and emotional support in a friendly manner. It is our objective to promote and encourage a sense of belonging and involvement so that everyone within our community feels cared for, valued and respected.

Many of our members are well supported by friends and family, but there are times when  neither is available or it may be easier to talk to someone outside the immediate circle and away from the family unit.

Nefesh Network undertakes a whole range of activities for anyone in the community who wishes to access them:

  • Befriending service
  • Home visiting
  • Shopping
  • Transport arrangements
  • Accompanying to appointments, including hospital
  • Support following bereavement
  • Support through illness
  • Maintaining contact through telephone calls
  • Listening
  • And much more

This is all achieved through a willing and committed group of volunteers, at times supporting people through difficult and trying life events. The volunteers are all trained to be non- judgmental, friendly, sensitive, caring and patient and understand that total confidentiality is absolutely paramount.

Please don’t think twice about contacting us if you feel there is something that we could do for you or a family member or friend. The line is manned on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday morning. At all other times you can leave a message on the same number, 020 8455 0040, we aim to respond within 24 hours.

Should the nature of your enquiry be beyond the scope or expertise of our volunteers, we have an extensive database of both Jewish and non-Jewish organisations and will help to direct you to the appropriate agency.