The following documents are archived in this section for those interested in our past events and history.
- MSP takes the driving seat in launching a new vehicle for Jewish Care Scotland
- 2009 Annual Appeal
- Therapeutic Donations give a lift to Jewish Care Scotland Clubs - 29 June 2009
- Tree of Life Launched to raise funds - 31st May 2009
- 2009 Fun Walk
- Care for a Coffee, 27th October 2008
- Judith Rosenberg Trainee Social Worker Scholarship Announcement , 7th October 2008
- Jewish Care Scotland Annual General Meeting, 17th September 2008
- 2008 Annual Appeal for Donations. Launch, 7th September 2008
- New weekly Drop-In Centre for people with mental health issues, July 2008
- Start Walking- 2008 Fun Walk sponsored by Chessington Estates, 13th June 2008
- Mitzvah! Art Exhibition and cheque presentation, 3rd June 2008
- Kosher Kurry Night and launch of 2008 DVD, 3rd February 2008
- Annual General Meeting - 2007
- 2007 Annual Appeal
- 2008 Fun Walk - sponsored by Chessington Estates
- Walk the Walk - 2007 Sponsored Walk
- Thistle Club Card Night
- 2007 Sponsored Walk - Call for Entries
- Jewish Care Scotland Annual General Meeting - 15th August 2006
- Social Care Agency changes
- 2006 Annual Appeal
- Going the extra mile - 2006 Sponsored Walk collects over £14,000
- Maureen takes over the chair at Jewish Care Scotland
- A personal message from Albert Tankel, Honorary President
- Maureen Solomons' message on taking over as chair of Jewish Care Scotland
- 2005 appeal
- Annual General Meeting - October 2005
- Memorial board August 2004
- News desk stories from 2004
- Our team 2005
- Message from the Chairman 2004
- List of Board Members 2004
MSP takes the driving seat in launching a new vehicle for Jewish Care Scotland
MSP (Member of the Scottish Parliament) for East Renfrewshire Ken Macintosh took a break from his busy schedule to help Jewish Care Scotland launch their new transport service on Friday 16th October at 12 noon.
The MSP inspected a new £40,000 Mercedes vehicle for wheelchair users and other passengers, which offers a luxury travelling environment for clients being brought to the Jewish Care Day Centre at May Terrace in Giffnock.
Said Mr Macintosh: “Jewish Care Scotland offers a unique package of care, compassion and friendship for people of all ages from the local Jewish community and this splendid new bus will allow for a safe and comfortable journey for those travelling from home to the Walton Community Care Centre.”
The new state of the art vehicle offers its users disabled friendly access, playback of DVDs and CDs during the journey, air conditioning and the latest safety equipment.
Vice Chair of Jewish Care Scotland David Bishop said: “The new vehicle has been purchased from donations made during a recent fund raising campaign to celebrate our 150th anniversary and we are very grateful to all those who have generously contributed.”
Jewish Care Scotland provides support for around 500 Jewish families living in Scotland and offers care and friendship for people of all ages, especially those with chronic or enduring illnesses.
Funders and club members check out the new bus
Ken Macintosh MSP says "welcome aboard!"
Vote of thanks from Vice-Chair David Bishop to Ken Macintosh MSP
2009 Annual Appeal
Maureen Solomons, Chair of Jewish Care Scotland, speaking at the launch of the 2009 Annual Appeal said: “2009 is a challenging year for everyone faced with the impact of the current global economic climate. Jewish Care Scotland has reduced expenditures and is making every effort to be as efficient as possible. We have a substantial sum to raise through this Appeal and we urge people in the community to reflect on the work of Jewish Care Scotland and ensure that we can help all those who seek our support.”
“There are older people with no family and those whose family have moved away. There are people with progressive illnesses. There are those with acute mental health problems. There are families, of all ages, who find they are struggling to cope. There are those who find themselves with unforeseen family, domestic or financial crisis. We need to be there for everyone.”
“Donations to the Annual Appeal will help fund the professional social work team including those with specialist knowledge in debt management, family problems and care in the community for older people. It is essential that we raise enough in this Annual Appeal to ensure that we can continue to deliver the care and support we know people want and seek.”
The 2009 Appeal leaflet and donation form is available directly from Jewish Care Scotland. This year anyone wishing to make a donation can do so securely and safely on-line below or they can telephone Jewish Care Scotland and make a credit/debit card donation.
Therapeutic Donations give a lift to Jewish Care Scotland Clubs - 29 June 2009
Two new recent donations to Jewish Care Scotland mean the much appreciated and popular therapeutic programmes in the Day Care Service and at the Kandu Club are able to continue.
The Jewish Blind Society (Scotland) has contributed £5,000 towards the programme for the Kandu Club. Anne Coyle who manages the Club said: “This is terrific news. The current financial situation had meant we had to reduce the programme quite recently. Now we can resume the programme and the members can continue to enjoy and benefit from the massage and beauty treatments. The professional therapy programme offers members, many of whom are confined to wheelchairs for part of the day, a chance to relax and to enjoy a bit of pampering. The therapies also help with circulation problems and instil a sense of wellbeing which is terrific.”
The (Jewish) Glasgow Girls in London have also sent a cheque for £1,800 towards the therapeutic programme for the registered day care service, the Aviv Club.
Glasgow Girl in London, Louise Naftalin said: “We hope our contribution to this project will be beneficial to all those taking part and help Jewish Care Scotland continue providing such excellent therapies. “
The Girls raised funds at their 2nd Burns Supper in January this year, which was attended by hundreds of Glasgow ex-pats and supported by Secretary of State for Scotland Jim Murphy and actress Maureen Beattie among others. This is the second time the Glasgow Girls have contributed to the Aviv Club programme which includes foot, shoulder and back massages, reflexology and beauty treatments including manicures and pedicures. The Aviv Club members are older people who attend Jewish Care Scotland’s Day Centre. Many have mobility problems and welcome the treatments which they find particularly helpful.
Chief Executive Ethne Woldman said: “Both the Jewish Blind Society and the Glasgow Girls have been most generous, thoughtful and kind in helping us to continue with the therapeutic programmes which are so much appreciated by the members of each club.”
Tree of Life Launched to raise funds - 31st May 2009
The Tree of Life, a new and unique copper sculpture designed and made by well known Glasgow Jewish sculptor Lynn Wolfson, was unveiled in the reception hall at Jewish Care Scotland in Giffnock.
Maureen Solomons, Chair of Jewish Care Scotland introduced The Tree of Life to an audience of over 90 people from the community including Alex Mackie, East Renfrewshire Council Provost and the Rt. Hon. Jim Murphy MP, Secretary of State for Scotland who said: “The Tree of Life is a new and special tree that will have a lasting legacy.”
Maureen explained: “We have capacity for 150 leaves only, so the sculpture is a very special and unique piece and a testimonial to people’s care, love and memories. An inscribed copper leaf on the tree is a lovely way to celebrate a new life, to mark special times in our lives like a barmitzvah, a wedding, a special anniversary or birthday. A leaf is also a very nice way to celebrate the lives of those whom we love but sadly are no longer with us.
“Each leaf will be engraved with the name and a more detailed entry written in calligraphy in the Book of Life alongside the tree. Each leaf plus the written dedication costs £250.00 and £100 for those just wishing to make an insertion in the Book. With our community ‘s support we look forward to seeing our tree flourish and give pleasure to many for years to come.”
Artist Lynn Wolfson hung the first leaf inscribed in the name of her late mother Phyllis Shulman who was also a lifelong supporter of the charity.
Jewish Care Scotland Director Trevor Schuster-Davis hung a leaf in the name of The Alexander Stone Foundation as a thank you to Lady Bette Stone who kindly donated the cost of the materials for The Tree of Life and additional leaves in celebration of her family and friends.
Already over 50 leaves have been bought and Maureen is inviting others in the community to come forward and add their copper leaf too. Tree of Life request cards are available directly from Jewish Care Scotland.
2009 Fun Walk
2009 Fun Walk brings exercising and fundraising together.
Over 90 participants of all ages- including babes in buggies and family pets- completed the 4 or the 8 mile Fun Walk routes on Sunday 14th June 2009 to raise funds for Jewish Care Scotland’s welfare services. On a glorious day the walkers headed out to the swirl of the bagpipes and returned to collect their medals…. and a well earned smoked salmon bagel and refreshment.
Walk Committee volunteer Chairman, Gary Clark said:” I am delighted with the turnout we had and really pleased at the number of children who took part. A great deal of hard work goes into organising the event and I want to thank all the volunteers and sponsors who contributed and especially all the walkers for their sterling efforts and fundraising. This year some walkers made their own fundraising page through the Jewish Care Scotland website link to Just Giving. Every penny raised by every walker will help Jewish people in need in Scotland.”
P. S. Do Come and Join us for the 2010 Fun Walk
Suitable for all the family!
All ages welcome, £5 adult registration fee!
Under 16s are free!
Come and join in the fun ...
Send in your application form now and we will send you your sponsorship sheets, information sheet, walker number and walker's pack.
"WHY NOT PHONE A FRIEND?"
Ask a friend to walk with you - each walker means more sponsors!!!
Help us raise funds for Jewish Care Scotland's weekly Drop-In Centre and other services for vulnerable Jewish people in Scotland.
Do it Online by clicking here and printing the form from your computer.
You can raise sponsorship by clicking on the "Donate on-line" link - so friends and family worldwide can easily support your efforts - it's fun and easy!
Watch out for more details of the 2010 Fun Walk!
Care for a Coffee, 27th October 2008
A coffee morning with a difference organized by Jewish Care Scotland volunteers Angela and Karen was held in Starbucks at Silverburn –Glasgow’s newest shopping mall- where manager Mike was delighted to help a good cause. Over 60 people enjoyed coffee, kosher cakes and some very special shopping at stalls provided by Passion Flowers, Prospero, SK Designs and Urban Gifts. Care for a Coffee raised over £1,500.
Angela said: “We’re delighted and thank everyone who helped and who came along and made the morning such a success.” Karen added: “Everyone’s efforts have been made even more worthwhile as an anonymous donor has matched our fundraising taking the total to over £3,000!”
Judith Rosenberg Trainee Social Worker Scholarship Announcement, 7th October 2008.
A long serving welfare volunteer has endowed a trainee social worker scholarship for Scotland‘s largest Jewish welfare charity. Chief Executive of Jewish Care Scotland Ethne Woldman advised: “We keep under constant review our need for professionally qualified staff. Naomi Adams-Strump is the third Jewish Care Scotland social work trainee. She is following in the footsteps of Lesley Samuels who qualified in 2000 and Barbara Haniford who will qualify later this year. “
Naomi’s training has been gifted to Jewish Care Scotland by Judith Rosenberg whose own experience of welfare work embraces 38 years of volunteering with Jewish Care Scotland and its predecessor organisations. Judith made the decision to support professional training because she has seen its benefits first hand. Judith explained: “My early life experience in Hungary meant I never got the chance to go to university and have a professional career so it is very special to be in a position to give a young person today that opportunity.
"Training is so important. Apart from all the knowledge gained it gives you a chance to bond with others in a similar position. For volunteers, training brought us together. We all stand on the shoulders of our predecessors and I am proud of my contribution to Jewish Care Scotland. As time goes on, and as I continue my volunteering, I become more and more supportive of Jewish Care Scotland. I am very pleased to be making this extra contribution.
It will help Jewish Care Scotland continue to serve the Jewish community in the best professional manner; keeping abreast of new knowledge and the changing needs of the community. Meeting Naomi was a special moment and I wish her every success. “
Jewish Care Scotland Annual General Meeting, 17th September 2008
Maureen Solomons, chair of Jewish Care Scotland, welcomed guests to the 150th anniversary year Annual General Meeting held in Jewish Care Scotland’s premises on Wednesday 17th September 2008. While during the year there has been delight in celebrating the charity’s historic achievements, the Board of Directors is also focusing on the future. An Away-Day with a qualified facilitator will give directors an opportunity to consider and plan the organisation’s future so it can move forward with confidence that the charity is fit for purpose in the years ahead.
The meeting received and approved the financial accounts and heard reports from the company secretary, chair of the Social Care Agency and the chief executive.
Volunteer Natalie Cahif and social worker Barbara Haniford each spoke about their experience of Jewish Care Scotland offering insights into the rewards of volunteering and of assisting individuals and families who contact Jewish Care Scotland seeking help with all kinds of family and welfare issues and problems.
Maureen Solomons presented volunteer Alice Tankel with a certificate of thanks and a bouquet of flowers as she was stepping down from the Board of Directors. Alice first got involved with the Welfare Board in 1964 and over many years has served in a range of capacities. Alice was made an Honorary Vice President in recognition of her on-going contribution to Jewish Care Scotland.
Lesley Roles in making her report on the Social Care Agency’s activities over the year welcomed the increasing numbers of volunteers. She and others paid special tribute to the late Freda Jackson who is sadly missed and who infused the charity with her loving caring ways.
Ethne Woldman, chief executive, in her report highlighted the new weekly Drop-In Centre established for younger adults with mental health problems.
Elected: Chair, Maureen Solomons; vice-chairman, David Bishop; treasurer, George Hecht; company secretary, Trevor Schuster-Davis; Social Care Agency Chair, Lesley Roles.
Board of Directors: David Bishop, Colin Black, Sylvia Cohen, Angela Hecht, George Hecht, Paul Morron, Lesley Roles, Trevor Schuster-Davis, Maureen Solomons, Vivian Strang, Albert Tankel
2008 Annual Appeal for Donations. Launch, 9th September 2008
One in ten Jewish people will seek Jewish Care Scotland’s support this year
That’s the statistic behind Jewish Care Scotland’s 2008 Annual Appeal for donations. And the current downturn in the economy will bring added pressure to the charity, which currently helps 600 individuals and families in need in the community every year.
Maureen Solomons, Chair of Jewish Care Scotland says: “The downturn in the economy is affecting our community. Sadly we need to raise more money this year to help those who are affected by this situation. We are asking for everyone in our community to give their support and make their donation now to the 2008 Annual Appeal.”
“The level of service we offer is of the highest standard. It’s a service tailored to the needs of people who seek and need support. This year Jewish Care Scotland is marking 150 years of continuous caring- a proud and impressive history of welfare that has only been possible thanks to the sustained tradition of charitable giving by our parents and grandparents to the Annual Appeal.
Donations to the 2008 Annual Appeal will fund professional social workers who respond and work with individuals and families, including those with specialist knowledge in debt management, mental health and care in the community for older people.
Jewish Care Scotland supports people coping with short term financial and domestic crises, individuals and families managing long term physical or mental illness and some who need assistance to re-establish themselves following divorce or other unexpected trauma. The charity works with people coping with drug dependency and some with conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorders. There is support too for a number of people with terminal illness with no immediate family.
Donations will fund the Day Centre and Clubs and the Meals on Wheels service. Loneliness, physical disabilities and dementia are a reality for many and the charity ensures that twice weekly, throughout the year, life as stimulating, interesting and enjoyable as possible for people experiencing these problems. These services are a lifeline for over 200 people who come every week to the Day Centre and clubs and enjoy a wide range of activities including therapies and speakers; marking the festivals and going on annual outings. Annual Appeal donations help ensure these programmes continue.
Messages of support
Pauline in England telephoned about her aunt:
“I have been in contact with Jewish Care Scotland for over five years in connection with my aunt who is nearly 93. I am her carer and her guardian. Jewish Care Scotland gives me a point of contact that is trustworthy, stable and always there. When something happens and I can’t get to Glasgow I have contact and above all the peace of mind that something will transpire which is absolutely marvellous. For people like me, the closest relative out of town, Jewish Care Scotland is terribly important. “
Angela in Canada emailed about her father:
“Jewish Care Scotland in general, and the social worker in particular, has done an outstanding job including arranging all important after care following a stay in hospital. The care and thought put into selecting a suitable “volunteer buddy” for regular companionship and dealing with last minute crisis has been a lifeline to myself and to my dad. My father is a very private and proud man. For him to have been willing for me to contribute to this appeal is testimony to the gratitude that he has for Jewish Care Scotland.”
Mrs D explains her experience:
“I turned to Jewish Care Scotland when I found myself falling into serious debt. I was a working single mother of three children, with outgoings higher than my earnings and benefits combined. Over the last 16 months I have been helped with specialist advice and support, which means I have been able to keep my family together with a roof over our heads and benefited from the emotional support which has helped me through the most awful of times.”
For further information please email us or contact us directly on 01 41 620 1800.
New weekly Drop-In Centre for people with mental health issues, July 2008
Jewish Care Scotland and Cosgrove Care are jointly running a new pilot Drop-In-Centre providing a weekly social evening for Jewish adults with mental health problems.
Jewish Care Scotland’s chief executive, Ethne Woldman said: “One in four adults experiencing mental health difficulties will use mental health services at some time in their life. This statistic applies as much to the Jewish community as elsewhere. Over my 12 years at Jewish Care Scotland I have been very aware that this problem often remains hidden when in fact so much can be done not only to improve the quality of life of people but also to overcome some of the difficulties that seem insurmountable. I would encourage people in the community to get in touch and drop in.”
Ann Scott, Chief Executive of Cosgrove Care explained: “A significant proportion of GP’s time is taken up with mental health problems. By helping individuals access professional support in an informal and social setting, this project can help alleviate early stage mental health issues and assist in the social isolation often felt by people with these problems.”
The Drop-In-Centre has been on the go since early March 2008 run by Christina Robb, Senior Social Worker and Mental Health Officer with East Renfrewshire Council and Jewish Care Scotland and Linda Walker, J. Mind Manager (the mental health service of Cosgrove Care).
Linda said: “The Drop-In-Centre has been going really well with up to 9 people coming along. The idea is to be very informal and as welcoming as possible, to be a place where people can relax, be sociable and meet people who share an understanding of their mental health problems.”
An attendee said:
“The Drop-In-Centre is the best thing that has ever happened. Through the group I have made friends and two of us have been swimming together which is great.”
Another described the impact of the Drop-In-Centre:
“Recently Thursday evening has turned out to be my favourite evening of the week. It’s a fact that some of us become very isolated through our illness as society can stigmatise us and does not accept us - so it is a real change, once a week, to be made to feel wonderful and wanted.”
“The professional staff are so welcoming, they make you feel at ease and the evening is full of treats and surprises. We have a choice of health treatments such as back massage, facials, nail treatments – all done by professional beauticians and it is all free. There is a wide range of social games going on too, like Frustration and Pub Quizzes and sometimes we do other activities like creative writing and art.”
Another participant described how when she repeated a creative painting session at home with her spouse it brought about better and more harmonious communication where there had been very little before.
And one attendee added:
“To end the evening we get another treat of a wonderful cooked meal. The food is delightful, so tasty. Every week there is something different on the menu and all for the price of £2.50. For me it is especially nice to get someone else to cook for me. I am a single mum with no family in this country and I always have to fuss about meals for my daughter and me. On Thursday, for a change, I feel number one: everyone and everything going on is to please and spoil me. I even do not have to worry about catching a late bus home; the project organises transport home.”
Christina said: “Social isolation is a big problem for many Jewish people coping with mental health problems so we are delighted to be running this pilot project as we feel it is addressing a real gap in the provision of this type of service locally. We contacted people we knew to establish the pilot project. Now we would be very pleased to hear from anyone wanting more information or interested in coming along. All calls are confidential. Contact Linda Walker on 0141 620 0013 or me on 0141 620 1800. “
An Amazing Feet! Record Turnout for 2008 Jewish Care Scotland Fun Walk Sunday 15th June 2008
Fun Walk volunteer organiser, Sharon Shear, took up the challenge of Jewish Care Scotland’s 150th anniversary year and called on the community to join in and make this special year a bumper year….and they did….walkers of all ages… from toddlers to great-grandparents, Jewish Care Scotland volunteers and staff...families….youngsters from youth and community groups…rabbis and synagogue congregants… all joined forces and to the sound of the JLGB bagpipes took on the 4 and 8 mile routes round Giffnock and Newton Mearns enjoying good company, sunny weather and the leafy highways and parks.
At the end of the day- refreshed with donated bottled water, smoked salmon bagels, teas and coffees- walkers and volunteers went home knowing they had raised a fantastic record sum of over £20,000- all of which will be used to help fund Jewish Care Scotland’s services over the year.
Sharon said: “For the first time we welcomed a Walk Sponsor, Chessington Estates.
Their sponsorship meant we could spread the word further about the walk and it means we know every penny raised by walkers will be used to deliver the much support and valued welfare services that help Jewish people in need in Scotland.”
And Sharon will be encouraging us again next year to take to the streets on Sunday 14 June 2009 so we can all help to raise those vital £ounds for Jewish Care Scotland-
Raising walk sponsorship the internet way…..With the click of a button you can set up your own fundraising page for your own personal sponsors- anywhere in the world! Just click on the button below to get started. It’s a super fun event- you get a bit fitter, meet lots of people and help raise much-needed funds for Jewish people in need in Scotland! So what are you waiting for?
Mitzvah! Art Exhibition and Sale in Aid of Jewish Care Scotland and Cosgrove Care, 6th April 2008
On Tuesday Volunteers Vivian Strang and Vivian Greenhill proudly presented a GIANT cheque for £13,250.30 to Jewish Care Scotland and Cosgrove Care.
The charities benefited from the proceeds from the highly successful Mitzvah! Art Exhibition and Sale held on Sunday 6 April 2008.
With a small team the two Vivians organised this new fundraising event in Jewish Care Scotland’s Day Centre, which was transformed into a gallery for the day. Works of sale came from 35 artists from the community along with works by Cosgrove Care and Jewish Care Scotland arts and crafts groups. Each artist donated at least one work and additional funds were raised through a raffle, sponsorship, catalogue advertising and donations in kind.
Feedback on the day was very positive. Vivian Greenhill said: “We are delighted with the outcome. The day was a social, marketing and a financial success. The artists were very pleased with the professional display of their work and we had a good number of viewers. A number of purchasers have told us how much they are now enjoying their new artworks.”
Vivian Strang added: “We are delighted the charities are benefiting from these much needed funds which will help them continue to provide the quality care we need for people in need in our community.”
Kosher Kurry Night and launch of 2008 DVD, 3rd February 2008
A Kosher Kurry night organised by volunteers George Hecht and David Kaye attracted 150 guests to the Kurry Karaoke by The Tall Ship. Guests, sponsors and donors helped raise much needed funds for Jewish Care Scotland and got George and David well on the way to raise £150,000 for Jewish Care Scotland in its 150th year!
During the evening guests watched the premiere viewing of Jewish Care Scotland’s 2008 DVD. The 9 minute film, narrated by Maureen Lipman, gives an insight in just 9 minutes into the work and services of Jewish Care Scotland. If you haven’t had a chance to see it do call the office on 0141 620 1800 to obtain your copy free of charge.
Maureen Solomons chair of Jewish Care Scotland told guests:”I can only add the demand for all our services is constantly growing.”
2007 Annual Appeal
20th August 2007
Jewish Care Scotland Needs To Raise £70,000
“If members of Scotland’s Jewish community want us to maintain the fantastic social care services we have then we need everyone who can to support our Annual Appeal. “
That’s what Maureen Solomons chair of Jewish Care Scotland said at the launch of the Scottish charity’s 2007 Annual Appeal this week.
And Maureen continued: “We need everyone’s contribution to reach this year’s Appeal target of £70,000. This money will ensure we can be here for everyone who contacts us for help regardless of the problems they face.”
We support and assist people facing personal financial problems within the family, mental or physical ill health and the difficulties associated with the onset of old age. Today too we are privileged to help Jewish people who are seeking asylum here in Glasgow.”
A recent Jewish asylum seeker from Russia told us:
“I am so appreciative of Jewish Care Scotland. When I made contact about 5 years ago I felt so alone, depressed and frustrated. As asylum seekers we were stuck and labelled, we felt so isolated and no one sees you as a person. The people at Jewish Care Scotland treated me with respect and as a human being with my own personality. They helped us to build new relationships and sort out schooling for our child. The social worker helped me access financial support so I could do my masters degree. Now, we have British citizenship and work and we are building our lives here as part of the community.” (name withheld)
Maureen told us:“Today Jewish Care Scotland impacts positively on over 600 people’s lives each year delivering real caring in the community every day of the year. “
And Lesley Levine who attends the Kandu Club said: “The Kandu Club twice a week is a lifesaver. It is good to be with people who totally understand what it is like living with an enduring illness like Multiple Sclerosis. I have made some really good friends and together we focus, not on our disabilities, but on doing and being social. “
Suki Goldberg, 99 years old this October, is a regular at Jewish Care Scotland’s attractive and modern Day Centre. She attends the Aviv Club- the twice-weekly lunch and social Club with 80 places for housebound older people.
Suki added: “I love it here. I have been coming for about 5 years. This is the most wonderful place for relaxation. I know everybody and if they are a wee bit sick I try to make them feel better. I love my arts and crafts and I do all the music and movement activities sitting down!“
Jewish Care Scotland also runs the Thistle club a twice-weekly social club for active older people and the Sunday Club.
Lesley Roles who chairs Jewish Care Scotland’s 100 plus volunteer Social Care Agency said: “Jewish Care Scotland also supports people in need in all sorts of ways outside of the Clubs and Day Centre. We know that without Jewish Care Scotland many in our community would be isolated, lonely, anxious and depressed. ”
Maureen Solomons concluded: “When people find themselves in need of a helping hand they need to know they can turn to Jewish Care Scotland. “
And she stressed: “This is the time for everyone in the community to make their donation. They need to ensure Jewish Care Scotland has the necessary funds for staff, increased running costs and resources in the year ahead. Whatever the amount, each and every donor can be assured they will be making a real difference.”
Additional information: Over the last ten years, Jewish Care Scotland has built up an unrivalled social care service to address the changing needs of the Scottish Jewish community. The organisation employs a professional social work team with experts in mental health and family issues. The Day Centre is a modern and attractive purpose built building in East Renfrewshire where the majority of the community now live. It includes offices, a dining room and day centre equipped with reception, lounge and meeting rooms. Outreach services include meals on wheels and befriending. Volunteer support for the organisation has grown and now over 100 people are regularly contributing their skills, time and caring to assist the charity in its Day Centre, clubs, outreach and fundraising.
Annual General Meeting 2007
Tuesday 28 August 2007
“A successful and moving Annual General Meeting” was how Maureen Solomons summed up the 149th AGM of Jewish Care Scotland.
The meeting was attended by over 60 people from the community. Mr Paul Morron and Mrs Angela Hecht were welcomed onto the Board of Directors. Tributes were made to retiring Directors Mr Marcus Green, Mr Melville Robinson and Mr David Strang. Each had made a long and strong commitment to Jewish Care Scotland and their dedicated work had contributed to a wonderful legacy for the future.
Thanks were made to everyone who had helped throughout the year with the all-important task of fundraising. The ongoing partnership with East Renfrewshire Council was highlighted along with Glasgow City Council’s support for Glasgow clients attending the Day Centre.
Maureen Solomons, chair of Jewish Care Scotland, concluded her report by thanking the Board of Directors, Chief Executive, the staff and volunteers and adding: “We will continue to help all who come to us for help and we will do it with the finest care we can. “
The meeting received the annual reports of the Chief Executive, Treasurer, Secretary and Social Care Agency (see some highlights from these at end of this report).
A number of clients and volunteers then took centre stage to share something of their experience of how Jewish Care Scotland has impacted on their lives.
Mae Statt said without the Aviv Club she would be at home, staring at four walls with nothing to do….” I appreciate it very much-long may it be for the good of Glasgow Jewry.”
Julia an asylum seeker in 2004 from South Russia described how harassment drove her, her husband and young child to flee. She was transferred to Glasgow’s Sighthill. She said: “Within a few weeks we were lucky enough to meet two people from Jewish Care Scotland and our lives were transformed.” She spoke movingly of ongoing friendship, and help and support that has been there as the family has started their life here. “I don’t have enough words to say thank you so much for the support you have given to my family.”
Myer Gladstone paid tribute to the social side of Jewish Care Scotland. After his wife passed away he stayed at home until his children persuaded him to come back to the Thistle Club. “ It has helped me put my life back together. I am not allowed to be down in the dumps. Suddenly my life had meaning, companionship and good support. Jewish Care Scotland has helped me enjoy life again”
Roy Levine speaking on behalf of his wife Lesley Levine described how Jewish Care Scotland and the Kandu Club have made a positive difference to her life. “When you have a chronic illness you cannot cope with the situation. I went along to the Kandu Club with a lot of trepidation and was welcomed with open hearts, offered comfort and support. We laugh a lot, are involved in very different activities and the staff and volunteers try their very best to make our days as good as possible.”
Sandra told how her parents were involved with the Board of Guardians and the Mentally Handicapped the precursors of Jewish Care Scotland and Cosgrove Care. Sandra said: “ When I had a difficult time I delayed for a long time until I realised I had to do something to help my situation. That delay has prolonged my recovery. I want to get across that Jewish Care Scotland cares for younger people so they realise this is a place you can come and people will help you.
Barry Langman is a volunteer bus escort, which he described as a mobile chat shop! “Jewish Care cares,” he said.
Julia Slater OBE and Gerry Freeman described how the Social Club had started as a little group of 5 three years ago organising outings. Now over 30 members enjoy theatre, concerts and holidays. Julia said: “ I don’t know what I would do with my life without it”. And she paid tribute to Agnes Logue for helping the group run such a lovely happy club. Julia and Gerry presented a cheque for £100.00 on behalf of the Social Club.
Aubrey Levine told how his daughter in law encouraged him to come to Jewish Care Scotland’s Thistle Club and he enjoys every minute of every time he has here. He said: “It has lifted me up.”
Aubrey presented a cheque for £541.00 on behalf of the Thistle Club raised from their card nights.
Highlights from the annual reports of the Chief Executive, Treasurer, Secretary and Social Care Agency:
Ethne Woldman, Chief Executive highlighted the success of the new therapeutic programme for Aviv and Kandu Club members funded in 2006 by donations from the Blind Society and an individual donor. She hoped future fundraising would allow the programme to continue. A new visiting service is being developed in partnership with Newark Care for people living in West Acres and Burnfield Care. Training remains a high priority for staff and volunteers and Margaret Lothian has been taken on as a development consultant with this remit. The review for alternative accommodation for the Kandu Club will continue. Any future capital building programme would include specific provision.
Brian Links, Treasurer noted that income and expenditure had increased. Overall the situation was similar to the previous year. He noted without increased donations the Board will struggle to introduce new services.
Trevor Schuster Davis, Secretary reported on the changes to the Board and the decision to appoint Melville Robinson and David Strang as Honorary Vice Presidents in tribute to their contribution to the Board.
Lesley Roles, Chair of the Social Care Agency reported on a successful year. Two new volunteers- Ruth Beattie and May Gillan- took the volunteer corps to 96. Lesley thanked all the dedicated volunteers from the community who give of their time to help Jewish Care Scotland. Lesley paid tribute to her vice-chair Angela Hecht, to the activity group chairs and to all the volunteers for their support in all the Clubs, undertaking baking, bus and reception duties, fundraising and outreach befriending.
150 WALKERS MADE THE 2008 JEWISH CARE SCOTLAND 150th ANNIVERSARY YEAR FUN WALK SPONSORED BY CHESSINGTON ESTATES EXTRA SPECIAL AND A REAL SUCCESS
The call was heard- the walkers came- over 150 of them including lots of youngsters, babes in buggies and some four-legged friends.
On a fine Sunday morning in June they £ounded the roads, paths and parks of Giffnock and Newton Mearns taking on the 4 and 8 mile walk challenges.
The banner was up, the balloons ballooning and the piper piped them on their way. Some hours later legendary walker Millie Hilllman presented returning walkers with their special 150th anniversary year medal. Then it was off to enjoy bagels, smoked salmon and refreshments. 
A massive thank you to everyone who came along on the day. The Walk was FUN and it has raised a terrific sum. Thanks to all walkers and to their the sponsors- every penny you raised will be used to help Jewish Care Scotland support people in need in the year ahead.
And! if you missed out, don’t worry, we will be running! the walk again in 2009! Watch out for details.
With the click of a button you can set up your own fundraising page for your own personal sponsors- anywhere in the world! Just click on the button below to get started.
It’s a super fun event- you get a bit fitter, meet lots of people and help raise much-needed funds for Jewish people in need in Scotland! So what are you waiting for?
Walk the Walk - 2007 Sponsored Walk
Sunday 24 June 2007 last year stayed dry until our last walker completed the walk, a great relief to us all, though we were equipped with complimentary capes!
A fantastic 75 walkers of all ages took on the four and eight mile routes and once again raised over £10,000 - an outstanding amount - for Jewish Care Scotland.
Sharon Shear who chairs the Sponsored Walk committee said: “We are really grateful to everyone, the walkers, their sponsors, the volunteers and the staff who organised the walk and those who donated the water and after walk refreshments. Once again we have raised a sum that will really help Jewish Care Scotland deliver all the invaluable services to people in need in the community.”
Watch out for this year’s walk on Sunday 15th June 2008 - Information is available in the Events Section.
Thistle Club Card Night
The Thistle Club Committee organised another of its popular card evenings. It was held on 21st February 2007.
2007 Sponsored Walk - Call for Entries
Sponsored Walk in Aid of Jewish Care Scotland
Sunday 24 June 2007
10.00am start
Last year over 80 people walked the walk raising a fantastic £14,000 in aid of Jewish Care Scotland. Please register to join in this year’s event. The sponsorship money you raise means Jewish Care Scotland will continue its vital work supporting Jewish people in need in Scotland. Our 4 or 8 mile walk is suitable for all ages and our supervised route takes in some stunning scenery through Rouken Glen, historic Eastwood and Newton Mearns.
The walk starts and finishes at the Walton Community Care Centre.
Please call 0141 620 1800 for a registration form or to download an application form click here.
Jewish Care Scotland Annual General Meeting - 15th August 2006
Over 40 people gathered for this year’s Annual General Meeting held in the Walton Community Day Care Centre.
Chair Maureen Solomons, Treasurer Brian Links, Secretary Trevor Schuster Davis, Chair of the Social Care Agency Lesley Roles and Chief Executive Ethne Woldman all presented their reports on the past year.
Each noted that it had been another very positive year for the organisation and thanks was given to all directors, staff, volunteers and everyone who had helped in so many different ways over the year.
The AGM unanimously welcomed and approved the appointment of two new Honorary Vice-Presidents, Freda Jackson and Joan Sellyn, in recognition of their long-standing dedication to Jewish Care Scotland.
Vivian Strang and Sylvia Cohen, both long-standing volunteers, were also welcomed and congratulated on their appointed to the Board of Directors.
There was then an opportunity for some people who have benefitted themselves from the services of Jewish Care Scotland to speak to the meeting.
Tahel told the meeting how her life had transformed for the better over the last ten years since the day she wrote to Jewish Care Scotland seeking help. Within three days she had been visited by the Social Work Manager and a Care Agency volunteer who assessed her situation and arranged to meet her wish for housing and schooling for her daughter in Glasgow. Since then the advice and help of Jewish Care Scotland has been a source of constant support that has allowed Tahel to rebuild her life successfully and obtain a degree from Heriot Watt University.
Norma spoke on behalf of various members of the Kandu Club. Carole and Josh really appreciated being in the company of people in similar conditions. Lesley valued the friendship and fun element of the Club. Margo and Irving enjoyed the outings and really appreciated the transport that allowed the members to go to places and do things they otherwise could not do without the help of Kandu.
Betty had the meeting in stitches with her anecdotes about the AVIV Club and how she enjoyed playing dominoes, the singing class, the keep fit and the entertainments. She thanked the carers, the drivers and the volunteers.
Aubrey, chair of the Thistle Club, told how the Thistle Club had given him a whole new range of friends and helped him in so many other ways. He spoke about the recent fundraising card night and the members’ intention to raise £2,000 per annum for Jewish Care Scotland.
Julia talked about the Social Club and how members now go on holidays at New Year and at other times as well as going to the theatre, concerts and films.
Gerry told how he has been a volunteer for seven years. Deciding to become a volunteer for Jewish Care Scotland was the best decision he had ever made and volunteering in the Aviv had made a tremendous difference to his life and given him a great sense of achievement.
Everyone enjoyed and appreciated these contributions and they gave a real insight into just how Jewish Care Scotland touches so many people’s lives in such a positive manner.
Social Care Agency changes
There have been two recent developments.
Management group
The new Social Care Agency management group is now up and running. The group consists of eight volunteers working with three social work managers. The group is responsible for developing the way forward for the volunteers in the Social Care Agency and for all volunteer matters.
The management group has now also formed a policy sub group and outreach sub group.
Policy sub group
This group looks at developing policy for volunteers.
Recently, it has reviewed and revised the recruitment and selection procedures and a grievance procedure for volunteers is now in place.
Outreach sub group
The befrienders and casework groups have gone through a major change over the past few months. Volunteers acknowledged that areas of work overlapped and that in the case of befrienders, the group was too large for premises available and for ease of discussions.
As the agency aims to provide the best possible service for clients, the Care Agency Management group realised that they needed to look at the way forward for these two groups.
It was felt that it was important to consult with the members of the groups to discuss the various options. To this end three focus groups were held giving everyone a chance to voice their opinions.
The outcome was to restructure and merge the two groups and reform them into three, under the heading of the outreach group. The groups are a mix of caseworkers and befrienders. Three groups were created to allow each group to be a manageable size. This is the start of a new and exciting chapter for everyone.
If you are interested in finding out more about the work of the outreach volunteers then please contact Lesley Roles or Angela Hecht at Jewish Care Scotland.
2006 annual appeal
“Jewish Care Scotland gave me the peace of mind I needed to allow me to build a new life for myself and my daughter. I want everyone in the Jewish community to know just how valuable Jewish Care Scotland is and how important it is for the community to ensure its future.”
That’s what Tahel said.
Tahel has contributed her story to Jewish Care Scotland’s 2006 Annual Appeal. She wants her story to inspire and encourage others to seek support from Jewish Care Scotland. She also hopes it will encourage people to donate, at this time, to enable the organisation to continue to help others in need.
She said: “With their help and encouragement I settled in a decent home in Glasgow and gained the peace of mind to build a future. I secured my British citizenship and have successfully raised my young daughter. This summer I graduated from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh and started work! My life now is full of good times.”
Pamela, who has multiple sclerosis, attends Jewish Care Scotland’s twice weekly Kandu club for younger people with enduring illnesses said:
"Multiple Sclerosis saps your confidence as well as you your physical freedom. At Kandu I find comradeship and support from others like me and of course from the brilliant staff and volunteers. We go out and do things I just could not do on my own. Kandu really helps me to be positive and active too.”
Jewish Care Scotland’s 2006 Annual Appeal also includes the story of a family seeking asylum in Glasgow from the former Soviet Union who told us: “We fled from Russia in October 2005. The main reason was the rise of extreme nationalistic persecution. We suffered anti-Semitic attacks on our business and an explosion in our flat, all tolerated by the local police and government. We don’t know how to say thank you enough to Jewish Care Scotland. Since we literally knocked on their door they have helped us so much in so many ways. We hope we can stay and have a future here.”
Tahel, Pamela and the Russian family are not alone. On average 600 people in the Scottish Jewish community benefit directly from Jewish Care Scotland’s professional and voluntary services every year.
Maureen Solomons, Chair of Jewish Care Scotland, explained: "People from all over Scotland contact us for help for a variety of problems including the difficulties associated with older age, enduring or transient physical and mental health problems and child, family and personal problems.”
She added: “Almost everyone knows someone, perhaps a family member or in their wider circle of friends, who has sought help from Jewish Care Scotland. When problems occur within any family it affects, not only the life of the individual, but sometimes also their family and friends.
Many people have commented that in offering help to their relative or friend Jewish Care Scotland gives a certain peace of mind to the wider circle of family members and friends.
We need financial support from the Jewish community to allow us to keep doing this vital work. We depend on support for the Annual Appeal. We would welcome a donation from everyone so that we can continue our caring role in the community today and in the year to come.”
Ethne Woldman, Chief Executive of Jewish Care Scotland said: “Demand for our services is very varied and we continuously strive to meet the changing needs of our community.
Many younger people now live and work elsewhere, so there are older people who feel a little isolated in the community. We assist them to manage their everyday problems and retain their independence by providing professional support, sourcing benefits, arranging packages of care including day care, clubs, meals on wheels and befriending through volunteers in the Social Care Agency.
We liaise with local authorities to provide aids and adaptations in the homes of disabled and older people.
In our clubs, we offer kosher lunches and a range of social activities and therapies which are valued by people who sometimes feel isolated and alone. In conjunction with volunteers we arrange parties, annual outings, festival celebrations and a range of activities. We aim to enhance each person’s quality of life.
We receive a substantial amount of money from East Renfrewshire Council and from Glasgow City Council, although the latter’s support is based on each individual who comes to the clubs. We also receive contributions from those who use our services but we still have to subsidise, by an average of £20 daily, everyone who attends the various clubs. We rely on this Appeal to have confidence to provide people in need with the services they require.”
If you would like to donate to our annual appeal or contribute to any aspect of our work please call us 0141 260 1800.
Please also see more information on other ways of giving in Support us
This year’s annual appeal form is a small booklet full of information about Jewish Care Scotland and includes a useful directory of services - it is designed to be appealing, useful and hung on to - just like Jewish Care Scotland itself!
Going the extra mile - 2006 Sponsored Walk collects over £14,000
Over 70 walkers legged it out from the Walton Community Care Centre this year on a lovely sunny Sunday 25th June 2006.
This year baby buggies and family canine pets were counted among the walkers who ranged in age from mere weeks to over 88!
All returned to claim their medals for either the four or eight mile circuit.
Altogether they brought in a fantastic £14,000 in sponsorship to help Jewish Care Scotland.
Sharon Shear who chairs a committee of volunteers and staff which organises the event said, “Everyone is welcome and all ages join in. We had a fantastic response this year. The walk is becoming a regular event and every year we do better. The volunteer walkers are brilliant. They know every penny they raise helps Jewish Care Scotland deliver the wonderfully personal, friendly and professional services needed for people in our community.”
And she added, “Hang on to your walking boots as we will soon be planning next year’s walk!”
Maureen takes over the chair at Jewish Care Scotland
Local volunteer champion Maureen Solomons was appointed Chair of Jewish Care Scotland in October 2005. Maureen is the first woman appointed to the Chair in the organisation’s 150 year history.
Albert Tankel who served as Chair since 1979 said:“I have been privileged to see Jewish Care Scotland go from strength to strength during my chairmanship. I know that Maureen will also ensure that we continue to help and support all those people who need us.
I can think of no one better to take the organisation forward into the future. Maureen has given Jewish Care Scotland a huge amount of her personal time for the past 19 years! Before taking over as Chair she was chair of the care agency, responsible for the recruitment and organisation of over 80 volunteers.”
Maureen said: “It’s a great honour to be asked to be the Chair of an organisation as important as Jewish Care Scotland. Our role in supporting our community has never been more vital as more and more people seek our support.
I am very much looking forward to working with all professional and volunteer colleagues in ensuring that we have a bright and successful future. I believe that everyone has something to give and I’ll continue to encourage that view across the wider community.”
A personal message from Albert Tankel, Honorary President
“All good things must come to an end, and so after 26 years, I intimated last year that I would be standing down as Chair of Jewish Care Scotland from the 2005 Annual General Meeting. It’s been a huge privilege and pleasure to serve in such a wonderful organisation.
I’d like to thank all the Board of Directors and my colleagues and friends who have given their patience, goodwill, support and tolerance to me since I was appointed in 1979.
Of course as you all know, my life is very strongly influenced by the women in it, in particular my wife Alice. Her role in guiding me in assisting very vulnerable people cannot be overestimated. A special thank you Alice, for all your support.
However there are two others I must mention. The first is the redoubtable Zena Endlar, who has dedicated her life to the organisation and helped me as chairman for 16 years. The second is our most admirable Chief Executive Ethne Woldman, who has galvanised and updated the roles and responsibilities of the organisation in a unique and special way and ensured that we are in a position to help over 600 people every year.
However I am by no means fading into the sunset as I have been delighted to accept the position of Honorary President of Jewish Care Scotland, so I will still be keeping close links with all of you and I look forward to continuing to play a positive role in the organisation. Again, thank you to all of you for your support over the past 26 years.
Maureen Solomons' message on taking over as Chair of Jewish Care Scotland
“I was delighted and honoured at my appointment as Chair of Jewish Care Scotland in October 2005.
Of course I inherited an organisation in very good shape thanks to the leadership and wise counsel of the former chairman Albert Tankel.
I’d like to pay tribute to the 26 years of service he gave us as Chairman, during which time; the organisation has been transformed beyond any of our dreams.
Jewish Care Scotland has been part of my life for a long time: I can’t believe that it’s almost 20 years since I walked over the doorstep at Coplaw Street for my interview with Freda Jackson who was then Chair of the volunteer agency and the late Eva Zuckerman. I learnt so much from Freda, Alice, Joan, Pamela and others.
I am looking forward to working with all the team and I know the Volunteer Care Agency will continue to go from strength to strength under the new Chairmanship of Lesley Roles.
Jewish Care Scotland is a shining example as we combine the extensive skills and talents of our professional staff with the enthusiasm and commitment of our many volunteers. Our volunteers are an incredible team who between them clock up over 22,000 hours of care a year for those who need a helping hand, including people of all ages and backgrounds.
I am looking forward to working with all of them in the years to come and I will be working very hard to ensure that the people who need us so much get the very best of support and friendship.”
2005 appeal
There are 600 good reasons why you should support Jewish Care Scotland this year ...
Jewish Care Scotland offered help and support to over 600 people last year - that’s around one in six Jewish families in Scotland.
Chairman Albert Tankel said: “In one form or another, Jewish Care Scotland has been helping members of our community for almost 150 years. Sadly, and for a variety of reasons, we are now facing a substantial increase in demand for our services.
People are living longer and are not always able to cope with the complexities of modern life. When family structures break down, loneliness and isolation affect old and young alike.
Sometimes, even the strongest and best-organised family will need help when caring for the elderly or for a family member with an enduring illness. At times of crisis, Jewish Care Scotland is there to offer support.
We provide a shoulder to cry on, or a helping hand whenever it is needed.
We like to think of ourselves as the people who care when no one else is there.”
The appeal this year features three typical case studies from the 600 people helped over the last year:
Lesley – who at a young age developed Multiple Sclerosis and had to give up working.
Ernest and Cathie – who treasure the Kosher meals on wheels service and the company of the Aviv Club.
Vladimir and Julia – who are a young professional couple who fled to Scotland from persecution in south Russia.
Continued Mr Tankel: “These contrasting cases show the huge range of services we provide each year.
Every year as I make this appeal, I am impressed by the generosity of our community, as it responds to those who need a helping hand and I know that many of you have donated to Jewish Care Scotland for a number of years.
I should like to take this opportunity to thank you for all the help that you have given in the past and also to ask you whether you would consider increasing your contribution this year.
If you have never donated to Jewish Care Scotland before, please could you do so this year.
With your help we can continue to give support to those who need it most.”
In 2004, Jewish Care Scotland provided:
A professional Social Work service for Jewish families in crisis.
A free financial advice service.
A free housing advice service for the homeless and those seeking alternative housing.
Help and support for around 600 individuals and families.
A twice weekly Day Centre for housebound older people.
A twice weekly social club for older people.
A twice weekly club for those with enduring illnesses.
A twice weekly Kosher Meals on Wheels Service.
20,750 hours of voluntary work.
Jewish Care Scotland in various forms has been helping members of the Jewish Community in Scotland for almost 150 years.
Annual General Meeting - October 2005
Office Bearers
The following Board of Directors was elected at the Annual General Meeting in October 2005:
Chair: Maureen Solomons
Vice-chair: David Bishop
Honorary President: Albert Tankel
Hon. Life Vice-Presidents: M. Green, W.I. Talbot
Honorary Treasurer: Brian Links
Hon. Secretary: Trevor Schuster-Davis
Members of the Board of Directors:
David Bishop, Colin Black, Marcus Green, Freda Jackson (retired January 2006), Brian Links, Melville Robinson, Lesley Roles, Trevor Schuster-Davis, Maureen Solomons, David Strang, Albert Tankel, Alice Tankel.
Finance Committee/Loan Committee:
The Chair, the Honorary Treasurer, Melville Robinson, David Strang, Colin Black
Delegate to Glasgow Jewish Rep. Council:
Ethne Woldman
Senior Management Team
Chief Executive: Ethne Woldman
Social Work Manager: Ailsa Kellie
Personnel & Administrative Manager: Michael McLellan
Volunteer Services Manager: Neil Buchan
Home Support and Day Care Manager: Agnes Peebles
Social Care Agency
Management Group
Chair: Lesley Roles
Vice Chair: Angela Hecht
Sub groups
Arts and Crafts, Aviv Club, Bakers, Befrienders,Bowling Club, Bridge Consultant, Casework,Computer Club,Convalescent Holiday Fund, Events, Kandu, Movement to Music, Medication Advisor, Magazine, Reception and Support, Sunday Club, Thistle Club, Thistle Bus Escorts, Thistle Discussion Group.
Memorial Board August 2004
NEW MEMORIAL BOARD FORJEWISH CARE SCOTLAND RAISES £25,000
A new Memorial Board for Jewish Care Scotland has raised a staggering £25,000, it was revealed at its unveiling last Thursday.
The Board, which is located in the Reception area at Jewish Care Scotland’s headquarters in May Terrace, Giffnock, allows for parents or other loved ones to be commemorated in perpetuity.
At a special ceremony this week, the Board was unveiled by Anthony Linden on behalf of his father, Mr Bennie Linden and the many other generous donors whose contributions ensure that the work of Jewish Care Scotland continues.
Chairman Albert Tankel said: “By inaugurating this special Memorial Board we can achieve twin aims of allowing very special people to be remembered as well as raising significant funding to allow our work to continue.
We provide vital services for around 550 people a year and that number continues to increase.
We will be encouraging people to make use of the Board as part of our ongoing fund-raising programme and we have a specially produced information video for people to find out more about our work on a day to day basis.”
Archive News Stories
2006 Sponsored Walk
JOIN WITH MILLIE, 88, IN OUR CHARITY WALK THIS YEAR!
Millie Hillman, 88, thinks it’s never too late to join in Jewish Care Scotland’s annual sponsored walk.
Millie has been limbering up by doing five circuits of the Rouken Glen Pond to make sure she is in great shape to complete the sponsored walk on 25th June 2006.
A regular participant in the annual walk, Millie won a cup last year for raising the most amount for Jewish Care Scotland, something she hopes to repeat this year.
Said Millie: “I want to thank all my friends, relatives and donors for supporting me in the last two walks and I hope they will do the same this year.
I’m happy to welcome any new sponsors and will accept any donation from £1 to £1,000 – or more!”
Sharon Shear, chair of the committee which organises the walk said: “Everyone is welcome and all ages can join in.
It’s a great way to get fit for summer and to raise money for a good cause.”
There are two routes for the walk, one of four miles and one of eight miles, both beginning at 10am on 25th June 2006, beginning from May Terrace HQ of Jewish Care Scotland.
THE DOMESTIC ABUSE PLEDGE
Jewish Care Scotland has signed a multi agency agreement to help stamp out domestic abuse in East Renfrewshire.
The agreement provides a platform for collective action to tackle the problem across the area.
It involves the local authority, health boards, the police and other groups who currently work on an individual basis.
Chairman of Jewish Care Scotland, Albert Tankel, who is a co-signatory to the agreement said: “Domestic Abuse manifests itself in many different ways and it affects people of all ages and social backgrounds.
Jewish Care Scotland is proud to come together with our partners in East Renfrewshire in signing the joint promise, which will help us all take positive steps to stamp out domestic abuse and to offer appropriate support, counselling and protection to its victims.
By working together in partnership, we can reach a better understanding of why it takes place and take positive steps to ensure that every member of our community is treated with respect and dignity.”
A special set of web pages is being created by East Renfrewshire Council to highlight the initiative and a link will be placed from here to it as soon as possible.
A Timely Reward for Care Volunteers
Over 80 volunteers who care for others are to be rewarded for their efforts by Depute Minister for Communities Johann Lamont MSP and Ken MacIntosh MSP, at a special ceremony on Tuesday 31st May 2005.
The depute Minister will visit Glasgow based charity Jewish Care Scotland to present commemorative clocks to 83 trained volunteers who provide care services of all kinds to around 600 Jewish families in Scotland – that’s one in six of the Jewish population.
Chair of Jewish Care Scotland Albert Tankel said: “We are delighted to welcome the depute Minister and our local MSP in recognising the role of the volunteer in Scotland.
I think it is highly significant that a professionally run organisation like ours has four times as many volunteers as it has paid staff.
The giving of one’s time is one of the most precious gifts anyone can offer to the community and without the work of our volunteers and many others like them across Scotland; thousands of people’s quality of life would suffer greatly.”
Added Mr Tankel: “Time might be free, but it’s also priceless!
That’s why we wanted to pay tribute to our loyal team of volunteers, without whom, we couldn’t function in the way we do.
We also have an excellent partnership with East Renfrewshire Council which allows us to provide through both our volunteers and professionals caring services for those with enduring illnesses and those who need social and personal care.”
WOULD YOU CARE TO WALK FOR JEWISH CARE?
Jewish Care Scotland is calling on all its supporters and friends to join in a fun sponsored walk, followed by a picnic on Sunday 22nd May 2005.
Maureen Solomons of Jewish Care Scotland said: “We would like as many people as possible to join with us in walking from our HQ in May Terrace to Rouken Glen and back.
“All are invited, from children in push chairs to the not so young. We can even cater for pets, teddy bears or a favourite toy so long as they are sponsored.
It’s most important that we raise more than last year, as the number of people who need our support continues to rise.
We depend on this kind of event to raise money to allow us to respond to the ever increasing demands each year.”
Added Maureen: “At the end of the four mile walk, we will have a group picnic for all those who take part in the day.
Last year, around 75 people completed the walk and it really was a great day out.”
Chair of Jewish Care Scotland Albert Tankel said: “Last year the walk raised over £11,000 contributing to the vital funding we need to support people who experience problems with older age, physical or mental illness or difficulties in their everyday lives.
Last year we helped around 550 individuals and families and this year we expect to help even more.
If you feel you can walk four miles we would be delighted if you would join us in this important event in our calendar. This year we plan to ask our walkers to ‘Think on your feet!’ They will be invited to join in our Fun Quiz when they will have to spot certain clues of local interest along the route and a trophy will be presented to the winners during the picnic.”
TOP MARKS FOR JEWISH CARE HELPERS!
Four full time members of staff and a volunteer at Jewish Care Scotland have “graduated” at a special ceremony held at its May Terrace HQ today. (Monday 17th February 2005).
Staff members Ann McLeish, Mary Fairley, Gus Gaffney, Jim Drury, and local volunteer Rochelle Blin, were celebrating their awards of SVQ in Social Care after an eighteen month training and study period.
Chief Executive of Jewish Care Scotland Ethne Woldman said: “We are very proud of their achievements and their new qualifications, which is why we wanted to recognise their work and commitment today.
“Their training was intensive and demanding and involved practical work and skills associated with helping people with personal care and mental health problems.
They will be a great asset to us and will make a major contribution to meeting the needs of our clients. Their qualification will help us to comply with new legislative training requirements which will impact on us later this year.”
Jewish Care Scotland provides care services for the community and assists on average one in six Jewish families across Scotland.
A HAPPY CHANUKAH FOR JEWISH CARE SCOTLAND ...
Over 200 clients and friends of Jewish Care Scotland celebrated Chanukah in fine style on Sunday 13th December 2004.
Chairman of Jewish Care Scotland Albert Tankel said:” It was a lovely, happy and extremely funny event. We were delighted that we were joined by Jim Murphy MP and his family who reminded us that the Prime Minister lit, what is thought to be the first Chanukah menorah, in Downing Street.”
The celebration took place in Carmichael Hall in Eastwood Park when members of the Thistle Club, The Aviv Club and the Kandu Club were treated to a spectacular feast of entertainment from an international all star cast.
“Artists” making personal appearances at the event included such international luminaries as Annie Oakley, the Beverley Sisters, Sophie Tucker, Eartha Kitt, Harry Lauder, Cole Porter – and of course Glasgow’s own Francie and Josie – well at least some members of the Jewish Care team and their friends trying their best to look and sound like them!
Also on offer was a very convincing and much appreciated performance of “The Steamie”.
Cantor Levy enhanced this enjoyable occasion by singing and lighting the Chanukah.
Gifts were given to all those attending through a generous donation by the Glasgow Maccabi Red Nose Ball Committee.
The event was recorded on video for those who were unable to be present on the day.
JEWISH CARE HAS CRUCIAL PART TO PLAY
The statistics speak for themselves. Jewish Care Scotland has helped one in four people in the community at one time or another.
It has vastly improved the lives of people of all ages and from all backgrounds. And, as the 2004 annual appeal is launched, it is looking for your help.
Chairman Albert Tankel said: "Over the years we have learned that a crisis can happen to anyone, rich or poor, young or old."
And illness is not the only factor. As increasing numbers of young people move away from Glasgow, many older people are left with feelings of isolation and loneliness.
In April last year, Jewish Care was put in touch with an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor living in Ayr who was seeking contact with the community.
She had had cancer surgery and was suffering from depression.
Within six months, the charity had re-housed her in the south side of Glasgow and she is now an active and happy member of the Aviv Day Centre.
Chief Executive Ethne Woldman said: "In the last five years we have assisted just over 1,600 people who came to us for support.
When you consider that there are only around 6,000 Jewish people in Scotland, this is a very significant figure indeed. We predict the demand will continue as people live longer - but not necessarily in good health.
The services provided by Jewish Care Scotland cost the charity almost £600,000 a year.
It's most important that we keep our services going for those who need them, so your donation could make such a difference."
Mr Tankel added: "If you have never made a donation before, please consider making one this year."
75 SPONSORED WALKERS RAISE CASH FOR JEWISH CARE SCOTLAND
Around 75 intrepid souls between the ages of six and 86, walked, laughed and joked around a route of up to eight miles in this year’s Jewish Care Scotland annual sponsored walk, including 20 Guides and Brownies from the local 5th pack.
The sun shone on the walkers as they followed a route from the Walton Community Centre at May Terrace, Giffnock as they were supported by a further 35 helpers who administered first aid, bottles of water and bagels with salmon at the end of the walk.
Chair of Jewish Care Scotland Albert Tankel said: “It was a marvellous show of support and a great day out for all concerned.
I’d like to thank everyone who took part, as well as those who worked behind the scenes and organisers who made it all happen.”
Added Mr Tankel: “We hope that when all the returns are in we will have made over £7,000 which will go towards supporting people who need our help.”
Local ‘Bingo Queen’ 86 year old Milly Hillman successfully walked for four miles, despite having recent major cancer surgery and local Girl Guide Emma Edwards insisted in finishing the eight mile course, despite first aid for a sprained ankle!
Milly has already recently raised £800 for Jewish Care Scotland and has just returned from visiting her family in Australia.
Jewish Care Scotland provides a wide range of social services for all ages in the Glasgow area and in partnership with East Renfrewshire Council.
WALK AT LEAST FOUR MILES – FOR ONE OF OUR SMILES…
Yes it’s that time of year again – time to look out the comfy shoes so you can take part in Jewish Care Scotland’s annual sponsored walk.
This year’s sponsored walk is being held on Sunday 6th June 2004, beginning at 10am sharp.
There are two walks on offer – a four mile distance from May Terrace to Rouken Glen Park and back and an eight mile distance from May Terrace, taking in Rouken Glen, Patterton and Deaconsbank and back.
You can saunter or sprint, hike or limp – it’s up to you – but the name of the game is having fun, while helping a good cause.
Chairman of Jewish Care Scotland Albert Tankel said: "Even if you don't feel up to walking the full distance, you can cheer the others on and simply make a donation - every contribution helps and hopefully it will be an enjoyable day out."
Each adult person taking part pays a registration fee of £5, with under 16s free of charge.
In return, everyone registering will be given an information pack with sponsorship forms.
And – best of all - if you finish the course, you will receive a special medal which will be the envy of all your friends!
During the walk, Stewards and First Aiders will be on hand to help and there will be a goody bag with a bagel and smoked salmon at the end of the course, with tea and coffee also on offer.
Water will be available during the walk from the Stewards.
So if you or your friends would like to take steps to join us in this worthy cause, contact us now.
You can get registration forms and further details from the office at Jewish Care Scotland, May Terrace, Giffnock – tel 0141 620 1800.
The detailed routes are as follows:
Four miles – Leave Jewish Care Scotland at May Terrace – along Fenwick Road – Eastwood Toll – Ayr Road – Davieland into Rouken Glen Park – round the pond – and return by the same route to May Terrace.
Eight miles – As above, except instead of going into Davieland Road, take Ayr Road to Crookfur Road – then Stewarton Road – Patterton Station – Deaconsbank Golf Club – Rouken Glen Park – round the pond – and return to May Terrace.
RECOGNITION FOR FREDA’S 43 YEARS OF CARE
One of Jewish Care Scotland’s Directors has received a special award to celebrate 43 years of caring for the local community.
The award of a special gold badge and certificate was made by Age Concern Scotland to Freda Jackson in recognition of her work with older people.
Freda received the award at a special ceremony in the Jewish Care Scotland Day Centre in Giffnock on Thursday 18th December 2003.
Chairman of Jewish Care Scotland Albert Tankel said: “Freda has made a remarkable contribution to the Jewish community in the Glasgow area during her time with us.
She was active over 40 years ago on behalf of the Board of Guardians.
She served with the Jewish Welfare Board – which later became Jewish Care Scotland and which established the superb centre we now have here in Giffnock.”
Added Mr Tankel: “The whole nature of support for our community is based on work done by unsung heroes such as Freda and I am delighted that we are able to join with Age Concern Scotland in recognising the huge contribution which she has made to our people over the years.”
Said Freda: “Things have changed so much since I first started working to help our people.
But what matters to me is not the buildings and facilities – it’s the quality of the care that counts - and that’s something that has always been there, both then and now.”
In her acceptance speech, Freda paid tribute to the support she had received from her husband and friends over the period of her work for the community.
YOUR LEGACY SHOWS YOU CARE …
Jewish Care Scotland is calling on everyone in the Scottish Jewish Community to leave a lasting legacy to help others in the community.
Said Jewish Care Scotland’s Chairman, Albert Tankel, “One of the most positive things any of us can do is to leave a lasting gift to support those in need.”
He added: “We should all make a will – no matter what age we are – if we want to provide for family, friends and worthwhile causes.
Jewish Care Scotland provides assistance to one in six Jewish families in Scotland.
We currently need just over £500,000 a year to continue that support and this can only increase in the future.
It is not easy getting older or coping with a family crisis, so please think about those people in the community who need a helping hand.
If you are able to make even a modest gift by way of a legacy you will have the satisfaction of knowing that after your death, others will have a better quality of life”.
Jewish Care Scotland currently provides help and support to over 500 members of the Jewish community a month.
POLICE LINK UP WITH JEWISH CARE SCOTLAND
Strathclyde Police – the largest force in the UK outside London – has placed a Police Cadet on a secondment with Jewish Care Scotland.
Police Cadet Chris Hoggans (18), will spend the next three months learning about the Jewish community in Glasgow and accompanying care workers and volunteers in helping local families.
Said PC Hoggans: “It’s an interesting and exciting challenge and I have been made very welcome by everyone.”
Chief Executive of Jewish Care Scotland Ethne Woldman said: “We very much appreciate this initiative by Strathclyde Police, which demonstrates the force’s commitment to reaching out to all parts of the community.
PC Hoggans spent some time helping to serve meals at one of the centre’s lunch clubs.
JEWISH CARE SCOTLAND TAKES TO CYBERSPACE TO RAISE FUNDS AND SUPPORT
Jewish Care Scotland has taken to cyberspace to help with its fund raising efforts and to recruit new volunteers.
The charity has launched its new website in the hope of reaching a wider audience of supporters to sustain its services.
The new site - www.jcarescot.org.uk – was inaugurated at the JCS Annual General meeting in Giffnock by Chairman Albert Tankel.
Said Mr Tankel: "We are launching this latest initiative to help us find new ways to contact people who might need our support, and to attract people who can assist us to maintain services that are so highly valued by those who use them.
It’s a measure of our success that we now assist one in six Jewish families in Scotland, but dealing with that kind of commitment puts enormous pressures on our resources.
Today many people leave Glasgow to find a job or to go to university and sometimes then they are not able to support or help their parents to the extent they would wish.
Jewish Care Scotland is able to offer a warm caring environment to support such people who have problems.
And of course the internet is a great way of staying in contact with what Jewish Care Scotland is doing on a daily basis.
Although we have a loyal and faithful group of local supporters who make regular donations, having a website means that anyone in the world with internet access can read about us and I hope some of them will be moved to offer us financial assistance.”
He added: “At the moment the site is not very large, but it will grow quickly and it is our hope that eventually people from the Jewish community around the world, especially those with Glasgow or Scottish connections, will be able to make direct ‘on line’ donations.
We will also be using it to recruit more volunteers, particularly befrienders, which we urgently need. We are looking for fit and active people with a warm heart who would be able to offer us around four hours each week.”
Continued Mr Tankel: “And I am delighted to report to our AGM that this has been a good year for Jewish Care Scotland.
We have significantly reduced our deficit and have increased services to include a culture club and additional day care places for older people.
In the year to come we hope to build on that success by offering new and exciting challenges to younger people – particularly those with disabilities or enduring illness.
And I’d like to pay tribute to East Renfrewshire Council and Glasgow City Council for their ongoing financial support and being proactive partners with us, together with our team of full time and volunteer workers.
I know from the very positive reactions we get from people who use our services that we really do make a difference to their lives.
And of course from today, you can find out the latest about what we are doing by logging on to www.jcarescot.org.uk.“
“I WISH I’D DONE THIS TEN YEARS AGO!” SAYS JEWISH CARE BEFRIENDER…”
Jewish Care Scotland is looking for new volunteers to help some of the 500 or so people it supports in the community each year.
Maureen Solomons, Chairperson of Jewish Care Scotland’s Volunteer Care Agency said: “We are looking for people to give up a small part of their time to become ‘befrienders’ for us.
Because many young people move south and can’t manage to look after their older parents on a day to day basis, older people can sometimes feel isolated if they live on their own.
Even younger people can find it difficult to make new friends if they have a disability or are living by themselves.
Our current team of befrienders visit people in their homes or go with them on shopping and recreational trips - and they are much valued by those they help.
And no matter what services we offer from professional people, there’s no substitute for regular and genuine friendship in our lives.”
Befrienders are trained by Jewish Care Scotland as part of a team of 60 volunteers, who offer help to others for a few hours or so each week.
Added Maureen: “Befriending can be very rewarding for both sides and is often fun, but also occasionally moving and emotional.
It always gives me great pleasure to see our befrienders generating laughter and enjoyment - or just chatting quietly to someone over a cup of coffee.
Befriending is not a new thing – it goes back to the roots of the Jewish Community – and indeed, was partly the basis for the organisation, founded in 1867, which is now Jewish Care Scotland.
As our information video says – ‘To be Jewish is to share a deep sense of community – it has always been that way…’”
Chief Executive Ethne Woldman said: “We are seeking people who are good listeners and enjoy meeting people – people perhaps who would like to put something of themselves back into the community.
Age, social background or education is irrelevant, providing you want to offer a genuinely caring and friendly relationship to those we are supporting.”
Aubrey Green is a JCS volunteer and befriender and former manager of one of Glasgow’s best known Marks and Spencer stores.
Said Aubrey: “I wish I’d done this ten years ago – it’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.
I help to look after 40 or so people at the Day Centre every Monday - and I also regularly visit a man in his eighties who is recovering from a difficult hip operation.
For example, I take him out to get his hair cut - and I know that just having someone around to help out makes his day.
It’s all about love and care - it’s been a fantastic thing in which to get involved.
I would recommend it to anyone who can spare the time!”
And professional artist and a grandmother to two youngsters, Laura Harrison said: “I’m a fourth generation supporter of Jewish Care Scotland and I always knew I wanted to help.
Befriending enables me to meet such interesting people and some of them have a great wealth of knowledge, even though some also have terrible problems.
So I listen to them and learn such a lot.
Mind you sometimes that’s because they do all the talking!
But I admire the spirit they show - and knowing there’s someone there to listen is a real advantage at a time when you are finding life a bit difficult.
I would recommend it to anyone.”
For further information or an informal discussion on what it means to become a befriender, contact 0141 620 1800.
ONE IN SIX LOCAL JEWISH FAMILIES SUPPORTED BY JEWISH CARE SCOTLAND
Jewish Care Scotland has today launched its annual appeal with some startling information.
One in six local Jewish families in Scotland uses its services each year, yet two thirds of Jewish families do not contribute anything to it.
The Charity now provides, amongst other things, day care, lunch clubs and meals on wheels, social work support, counselling and befriending to over 500 people each month.
Figures revealed today show that it costs an astonishing £59.52 per person each day for those older people who use the day care centre.
The delivery of meals on wheels costs £9.19 per person per day and at the popular lunch club, the cost to Jewish Care Scotland is £28.67 for each person who attends.
Chairman of Jewish Care Scotland, Albert Tankel said: “Although we receive considerable support from East Renfrewshire Council and Glasgow City Council, we still need to make up a shortfall each year.
The theme of our appeal this year is: ‘If your family had a crisis, who would you turn to?’ as we think of ourselves as part of a large extended family, capable of helping each other if things are hard.
Many children now move away from Glasgow and there are increasing numbers of older people who now receive help because their children are unable to care for them on a day to day basis.
Sadly ill health or financial difficulties can strike any family group regardless of circumstances and loneliness and isolation can also be difficult for people - particularly in older age.
With our dedicated staff and warm hearted volunteers, we are grateful that we can support so many who feel comfortable to come to us for assistance.”
Chief Executive Ethne Woldman said: “We have successfully combined a professional service with a network of trained volunteers recruited from the community. An increasing number of people are coming forward who have problems associated with mental illnesses which affects not only them, but the families involved with them.
We are also able to give advice on such things as state benefits or the funding of people who ultimately need residential care.
For people who are alone or even where families are nearby, it can be helpful to obtain good advice and guidance - or even just a chat to brighten up the day.”
The appeal makes a plea for people to consider helping Jewish Care Scotland on an ongoing basis, either with an annual or monthly subscription.
And where people are taxpayers, they should sign a ‘Gift Aid’ form, available from the group’s HQ.
Mr. Tankel added: “Using the ‘Gift Aid’ form gives us an extra 28p for every £1 that you donate and if everyone did this, it would add thousands to our annual income.”
If you would like to make a donation to help Jewish Care Scotland, pick up a leaflet and 'Gift Aid' form from our day centre in May Terrace, Giffnock or call us 0141 620 1800 or email us at admin@jcarescot.org.uk.
There is also a copy of a donation form on this web site which you can print and send to us.
Our Team 2005
List of Board Members
Albert Tankel (Chairman)
David Bishop
Marcus Green
George Hecht
Feda Jackson
Brian Links
Melville Robinson
Trevor Schuster-Davis
Maureen Solomons
David Strang
Alice Tankel
Lesley Roles
The Senior Management Team
Ethne Woldman (Chief Executive)
Ailsa Kellie (Social Work Manager)
Neil Buchan (Volunteer Services Manager)
Michael McLellan (Personnel & Administrative Manager)
Agnes Peebles (Home Support & Day Care Manager)
Message from the Chairman 2004
Thank you for visiting our Jewish Care Scotland Web Site.
It's most important that an organisation such as Jewish Care Scotland uses new technology to get our message across to as many people as possible.
Using the World Wide Web means that for the first time, people from around the world can find out what we do and stand for.
This Web Site will also be enhanced to play a key part in our annual fundraising appeal and as it develops we will be able to receive donations direct from this site from anywhere in the world, using secure transaction software which we will introduce in time.
I hope that you have found the pages on our site interesting - it's still very new - but it will develop and grow as our organisation embraces the opportunities which it can offer.
Thank you for visiting Jewish Care Scotland.
Albert Tankel (Chairman)
List of Board Members 2004
Albert Tankel (Chairman)
David Bishop
Marcus Green
George Hecht
Freda Jackson
Brian Links
Melville Robinson
Trevor Schuster-Davis
Maureen Solomons
David Strang
Alice Tankel
Lesley Roles
The Senior Management Team
Ethne Woldman (Chief Executive)
Ailsa Kellie (Social Work Manager)
Neil Buchan (Volunteer Services Manager)
Michael McLellan (Personnel & Administrative Manager)
Agnes Peebles (Home Support & Day Care Manager)