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Jewish Care launches its first inclusive, dementia-friendly siddur

The prayer book has larger font, transliteration and colourful images

February 21, 2024 11:27
Jewish Care's new inclusive accessible Siddur with its funders Geoff and Gila Hartnell (standing, right)
Geoff and Gila (standing right) Hartnell, who have supported Jewish Care's inclusive siddur in memory of Geoff's father Isaac z'l. Also pictured are his aunts Rita and Lillian and Ilana Greenblatt, Jewish Care's culture and faith manager (standing, left) (Photo: Jewish Care)

ByGaby Wine, Gaby Wine

1 min read

Jewish Care has launched its first accessible, inclusive dementia-friendly siddur for use in their care homes.

For ease of use, the font is large to help residents with visual impairment and there is colourful imagery. The lines are numbered, and there is transliteration so that residents, carers and volunteers can follow the service easily, said charity heads.

Richard Shone, director of community services, volunteering, social work and hospitality, told the JC: “Jewish Care is proud of our new accessible, inclusive, dementia-friendly siddur, which is supporting our care home residents to enjoy and feel fully included in Shabbat services, run by our dedicated volunteers.”

Shone paid tribute to Geoff and Gila Hartnell, who volunteer at Shabbat services and who have supported the project. The couple have dedicated the siddur to the memory of Geoff’s late father, Isaac z’l, who inspired Geoff to start volunteering.