Leeds Jewish Welfare Board is putting out a call for help as it faces a time of severe financial pressure.
The Leeds Jewish Welfare Board (LJWB) is facing its biggest financial challenge in its 150-year history. Board Chairman, Helen Lewis, said: “For the first time in our history, we are having to dig deep into our reserves just to keep things going. If we can’t find additional support soon, those reserves will run out in the near future. That would be devastating not just for us but for the hundreds of people who count on us every day. We know we’re not the only ones feeling the pinch. Every charity is under pressure, but things are really tough.”
Helen explained that LJWB is having to make some difficult decisions and is reviewing everything, including the services it provides, and the charges made. It is also looking at how it operates to make savings where possible.
The community centre is celebrating its 20th year at the heart of the community, but Helen warned: “For years we have been able to offer lots of activities either free or heavily subsidised. Sadly, that might not be possible anymore. Prices will have to go up. Some free services may soon need to be paid for, but we want to ensure we sustain our services for the future and deliver our mission of positively changing lives in our community.”
The increase in National Insurance contributions has added £100,000 annually to the Board’s costs. Besides the increases in costs, the demand for the LJWB’s services is greater than ever with many people facing complex challenges such as trauma, loneliness, abuse, and antisemitism.
Helen said: “Our incredible staff are working flat out to support them but we’re at full capacity, and we simply can’t do more without more support. We have done everything we can and thanks to generous donors and careful planning, we have kept things going, but we are now at a tipping point.”
“We are making bold changes to modernise and future proof LJWB,” Helen said. “We are restructuring teams to have the skills for the future, investing in tech for efficiencies and making every pound stretch.”
Chief Executive, Liz Bradbury, acknowledged that not everyone is in a position to help financially: “However, many could volunteer or join one of our many committees, it all helps,” she said, adding: “LJWB is determined to keep hot meals reaching the people who need them. We want to make sure no one feels isolated, and we want our mental health services, family support and community programmes to survive and thrive. We have always been here for you. Now we need you with us.”
One of the many services the board provides is mental health support for the Leeds Jewish community. Over the next month LJWB will bringing the community together to talk more openly, support each other better, and build a brighter future for mental health – with your help.
Offer your support at: https://ljwb.co.uk/
