Covid-19 Hampstead Statement

These extraordinary times call upon us to take extraordinary measures.  All services are currently suspended.

Although the buildings are closed, Hampstead Synagogue and the community is still here!  We will be in regular touch.  Initially our main focus is on everybody’s well being, in all senses – physical, spiritual and emotional.

We will be focusing on three areas to keep our community together at this difficult time.

 

Enhanced welfare programme. 

Our fantastic welfare team needs as many volunteers as possible to provide help to our most vulnerable. 

If you can help, please contact Hayley in the shul office (now off-site) on 020 7435 1518 or admin@hampsteadshul.org.uk.  

Initially we will be contacting every member to establish whether they already need or are likely to need help during the current crisis. Help can be anything from needing a regular phone call to help reduce isolation, to getting shopping or medications.

 

Virtual social programme. 

We will very soon announce a programme of online activities to ensure that we have shared experiences during this time of self-isolation.

 

Spiritual support. 

At this difficult time, our rabbi will be giving specific guidance on issues of halacha (Jewish law).  As ever we will do all we can to enhance yiddishkeit in Hampstead.

All local questions on halacha should be addressed to Rabbi Michael on either 020 7794 3413 or rabbi@hampsteadshul.org.uk and advice about attendance at funerals and shivas can be found here. 

Further announcements on how this current emergency impacts on Jewish life will be made soon.

 

Two support services are in place now. 

The United Synagogue Coronavirus Helpline can be reached on 020 8343 5696 or helpline@theus.org.uk. 

You can also phone Hayley, our shul administrator on 020 7435 1518 or email her on admin@hampsteadshul.org.uk and she will relay requests for help to our welfare team. 

If you know of anyone needing help, please also let us know.

Also

In order to alleviate unnecessary suffering in our community, the Hampstead Synagogue have set up a Coronavirus Welfare Fund and ask you to make a financial contribution now. 

 

Please either:

Go to our website www.hampsteadshul.org.uk and use the DONATE Button, indicating the money is for the Coronavirus Welfare Fund

Call the office on 7435 1518 (do not visit) and please donate via credit card

Please avoid sending cheques via post to the shul office.

Please keep safe and listen to official advice.