Hertsmere Borough Council has reached out to Jewish places of worship across the borough to offer support and solidarity, following last week’s terrorist attack on a synagogue in Manchester.
On Saturday morning, council leaders Cllr Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Labour; Cllr Chris Shenton, Leader of Hertsmere Liberal Democrats; and Cllr Lynette Sullivan, Leader of Hertsmere Conservatives, together with Cllr Christian Gray, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Neighbourhoods, visited Borehamwood and Elstree United Synagogue, Ohr Yisrael Federation Synagogue, and the Jewish Life Centre/Chabad Synagogue in Borehamwood.
They were joined by cabinet colleagues and councillors from all major political parties.
A delegation also visited Bushey United Synagogue, while Cllr Helen Green spoke with representatives of Potters Bar Synagogue.
During the visits, councillors met with faith and community leaders and spent time engaging with congregants, offering reassurance and listening to their concerns.
Cllr Gray, Portfolio Holder for Communities, Neighbourhoods, Enforcement, Economic Development and Transformation, said: “It was an honour to spend time with members of our Jewish community at this difficult time. When incidents like this occur, it is vital that we come together as a borough to stand with those affected. Our Jewish residents are an integral part of Hertsmere’s identity, and our message is one of unity, care and solidarity. Not only in moments of crisis, but always."
In response to the attack, the Leader of the Council announced a £50,000 Community Safety Grant to support local synagogues in implementing additional emergency safety measures.
Hertsmere Borough Council continues to work closely with faith communities, local police, and the Community Security Trust (CST) to ensure all residents feel safe, supported, and valued.
Local synagogues will be contacted over the coming weeks with details of how to access the fund.