Chancellor Sajid Javid, Lib  Dem leader Jo Swinson and London Mayor Sadiq Khan have praised the impact of Mitzvah Day as 25,000 volunteers of all faiths join the UK Jewish community’s day of good deeds.

Mr Javid said: "Mitzvah Day brings people of all faiths together to give up their time and to help others. These good deeds unite our society and Mitzvah Day strengthens our communities and helps to break down barriers."

Ms Swinson applauded the initiative for “making a real difference to the lives of the people who are involved - whether in care homes, in schools, refugees or people who are living in very difficult conditions on the streets".

Mr Khan said: "Mitzvah Day is just another example of the profoundly positive contribution London's Jewish community makes to our city. By encouraging Londoners of all faiths and backgrounds to come together and volunteer in support of good causes, it shows that London's diversity is our greatest strength."

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis is among those expected to be involved in today’s key projects. He expressed "enormous pride in the generosity, selflessness and community engagement shown on Mitzvah Day. In this challenged world, we must strengthen links and build bridges for tolerance and harmony."

This year, the theme is green (beyond the familiar T-shirts and other merchandise) and participants have been urged to be eco friendly in their projects and materials.

Volunteers are being urged to walk to project venues and where the distance is too far, to car share.