When in hospital, many patients will be visited by friends, family or people from their community; however, not everyone has that support or their family and friends do not live nearby. Sometimes it is also helpful to speak to someone outside the family.  Jewish Visiting is a cross-communal initiative organised by the United Synagogue Chesed Department, whereby we have a team of chaplains and volunteers who aim to visit anyone Jewish in hospital who would like a visitor. We cover most of the hospitals within London and the Home Counties.
Sharon Daniels, Head of Chesed and Volunteering, explains, “ Hospital chaplaincy can play a vital role in supporting patients and their families during some of life’s most challenging moments. A visit from a chaplain or one of our trained volunteers can bring spiritual comfort, a sense of connection, and a reminder that they are not alone. Jewish Visiting has been providing this essential service across Greater London and surrounding areas since 1875.
“Chaplains and trained visitors offer more than just company. They provide emotional and pastoral support, help meet religious and cultural needs, and ensure that the hospital staff are aware of any specific Jewish requirements that may affect the patient’s care. In addition to visiting patients, chaplains are also available to support their relatives and hospital staff who may need someone to talk to.
Visits are made regularly in hospitals with many Jewish patients, and on an “on-call” basis, where Jewish patients are less frequent. A timely visit can make a big difference—Jewish tradition teaches that visiting the sick alleviates a sixth of their illness, as mentioned in the Talmud. It is also important to pray with the patient for refuah sheleima (speedy recovery) in appropriate circumstances.
In many hospitals where there are larger Jewish Communities, you will also find Shabbat rooms or trolleys stocked with a range of kosher items, such as grape juice and snacks, available for Jewish staff, patients and their visitors. Chaplains and volunteers can help access these, helping patients observe Shabbat even while in the hospital.
We are part of the multi-faith Chaplaincy teams in hospitals, supporting one another and ensuring patients’ religious, spiritual and cultural needs are met as part of their care.
Rooted in the mitzvah of Bikur Cholim, visiting the sick, this act of kindness goes back to the example of Abraham in the Torah and continues to be a cornerstone of Jewish values. If you know someone in hospital who would appreciate a visit, or if you think you could be part of our dedicated team, we’d love to hear from you at info@jvisit.org.uk. Help us bring comfort, compassion, and connection to Jewish patients when they need it most.”