Refugee-friendly synagogue is hoping for a full house

When Rabbi Janet Darley retired as minister of South London Liberal Synagogue last summer, the community’s parting gift was a commitment to, quite literally, build on her support for refugees.

On Shabbat, Rabbi Darley was back at the Streatham-based shul as it formally launched a £50,000 appeal to turn part of its building into a home for refugees from war-torn countries such as Syria.

Board of Deputies chief executive Gillian Merron joined other faith and community leaders from across London at the service, where plans for the Abraham’s Tent project were outlined. Around £9,000 has already been donated and Rabbi Darley said afterwards that she was encouraged by the widespread support for the venture.

“It is only when a house or flat is made available to a local authority that a family can be resettled here and begin to build their lives.”