Jami has reported an 85 per cent increase in referrals in the last year to its Talking Therapies service.
The charity, which provides mental health support to people in the Jewish community, offers therapy sessions for individuals, couples, closed groups and young people aged 11 to 18.
More than 430 people have benefitted from Talking Therapies since its launch in 2023, a number which is expected to rise.
The British Medical Association estimates that some 1.7 million people in the UK are currently on a waiting list for mental health support.
Louise Kermode, director of community mental health services at Jami, said: “Demand for mental health services continues to rise, especially for children and young people…Talking therapies at Jami have a measurable impact on a person’s mental health, from people struggling emotionally to people with more complex mental health needs.”
The therapy provision was given a boost at the start of the week with a crowdfunder – Actions Speak a Thousand Words - which raised over £400,000.
Jami’s social enterprise café, Head Room, dedicated its monthly Open Mic Night to raising funds for the campaign.
“It’s been so encouraging to see the community get behind Jami’s latest fundraising campaign,” said Daniel Carmel-Brown, Jewish Care’s CEO.
“By providing a subsidised counselling service which is accessible and affordable for everyone, we will be able to ensure that those who are looking for support will get it when they need it, and from experts who are also culturally sensitive and understand.
"Owing to the current climate, having a Talking Therapies service specifically for the Jewish community is very important.”
Daniel *, a Jami client, said: “When I came to Jami, I was anxious, overwhelmed and unsure about becoming a father. Over time, I learnt to manage anxiety, communicate better, and feel genuinely ready for the future.”
If you would like to donate to Jami’s Actions Speak a Thousand Words, please visit www.charityextra.com/jami or click here
If you need support or are supporting someone who needs help, visit jamiuk.org/get-support/ , click here or contact 020 8458 2223
In an emergency, call 999
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