Since Jewish Blind & Disabled’s inception in 1969, the disability and accessibility landscape has changed drastically. Medical and scientific advances have simultaneously altered how disabilities are understood and transformed approaches to care. People are living longer, their needs have grown more complex, and demand for support has increased as a result. The importance of providing more accessible environments and tailored support is greater than ever.
As these changes have unfolded, JBD’s commitment to high-quality housing and support that empowers tenants and clients to live independent, fulfilling lives has remained constant. For more than five decades, JBD has been a lifeline for thousands of Jewish adults living with disability or sight loss.
Whatever someone’s reason for contacting JBD, whether a lifelong condition or a life‑changing event, the charity’s aim remains the same: to help them retain their independence, dignity and choice.
Research has consistently shown that home modifications and the implementation of accessible housing features can have positive health and social impact. A safe, adapted home can reduce health risks, support mobility and protect mental wellbeing.
JBD’s seven, soon to be eight, developments across north west and north east London offer step-free, specially adapted flats, each designed to suit a tenant’s individual needs, with house managers on-site 24/7 to provide peace of mind for tenants and their families.
Lowered work surfaces, tuneable lighting and other bespoke adaptations in the apartments provide the highest levels of comfort and accessibility. These adaptations are also regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changing needs.
In March 2026, JBD opened its new flagship building, Ephraim Court, in Mill Hill East. This marked an important step forward in the charity’s ongoing work to deliver accessible and future-focused housing.
Recently, JBD has secured planning permission and funding to redevelop and extend Fairacres, thanks to a partnership with the Joel Emmanuel Trust – a registered provider of housing that is part of Jewish Care. JBD was able to secure a multimillion-pound grant from the Greater London Authority. This ambitious development project will ensure all 40 apartments are wheelchair-user dwellings and reflects JBD’s commitment to evolving with the changing disability landscape.
However, with so much pressure on JBD’s waiting lists, there is no time to waste. The work on Fairacres is expected to take 18 months and once complete, will provide much-needed new housing for some of the 150 households on the current waiting list.
While Fairacres is now well under way, JBD’s Independent Living Advisory service continues to provide vital support to people living with physical disabilities or vision impairments who wish to remain in their current homes. Through this free service, each client receives a home visit from an occupational therapist who assesses their living environment and recommends practical adjustments tailored to their needs. This service focuses on the small, everyday adaptations that can have life‑changing impact.
Lisa Wimborne, the charity’s chief executive, says: “Many of the local authorities in London have occupational therapy waiting lists of over 18 months. Our Independent Living Advisory Service is another example of how we as a community are plugging the gaps to ensure people have the help they need to live safely in their own home.”
JBD’s sight loss support groups also play a crucial role in addressing the emotional and social aspects of living with sight loss. These regular sessions offer a welcoming environment where people can share experiences, reduce feelings of isolation and learn from each other. This kind of community-based support is essential for building confidence for the future.
As people live longer, often with more complex health needs, it is vital that services, housing and community support continue to evolve. JBD is incredibly grateful for the generosity that has enabled the charity to expand, grow and continue delivering life-changing work.
For more information about JBD’s services, to support the charity or find out how you can get involved, go to jbd.org
