The Movement for Reform Judaism has dispersed £24,000 to projects launched by congregations.
Reform Judaism's Community Development Fund has awarded grants to Manchester Reform Synagogue, Menorah Synagogue (Cheshire Reform), Southport Reform Synagogue and Sukkat Shalom in east London. The Northern Network of Reform Synagogues has also been recognised for its online and local study programmes.
Manchester Reform plans a Reform Judaism Leadership Institute for the north, offering training and support to lay leaders. Menorah's project partners with the RSY-Netzer youth movement to provide residential weekends in Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool. The initiative will particularly engage with youth from more isolated communities.
Southport intends to create a small communities outreach programme. Designed for congregations without a rabbi, it aims to bring in people with service-leading and musical skills. Sukkat Shalom's scheme will focus on the role of young adults in synagogue life.