New platform connecting Jewish adults with disabilities to launch in the UK - The Jewish Chronicle

Lev Tov Match, a new online platform dedicated to creating connections between Jewish adults with autism, disabilities and additional needs, is launching in the UK next month.

The initiative is the brainchild of entrepreneur Martin Port, a campaigner on behalf of adults with disabilities, who has seen through his own children the distinct challenges of finding friendships and love as an adult with additional needs.

“For many adults with learning disabilities or autism, the opportunity to meet like-minded people, build friendships, and even find companionship can be incredibly limited,” said Port. “Too often, they are left out of traditional matchmaking or social opportunities. I wanted to change that.”

Lev Tov – which means “good heart” in Hebrew – acts like a “hybrid between a dating app and a matchmaker”, according to executive director Naomi Goldman, who explained that the initiative aimed to create a welcoming space, where individuals could form meaningful relationships and find belonging within their communities.

“This platform embodies the values of inclusivity and empowerment,” said Goldman. “I am deeply passionate about ensuring that everyone has a place where they can feel valued and connected.”

Lev Tov will screen applicants to ensure the safety of all those participating, then create matches based on an algorithm by Tel Aviv-based team member Jonathan Kramer before discussing the potential matches with the participants. If they accept the match, Lev Tov will facilitate a virtual meeting.

Naomi Goldman, executive director of Lev Tov Match. (Photo: Naomi Goldman)[Missing Credit]

“We encourage them to have a safe adult with them, so if they want a family member or a professional that they work with to hold their hand, as such, on the journey, then that is absolutely fine as well and completely encouraged.

“But we also give them independence as well, because once we've matched them and they've had their Zoom meeting, it's up to them how they then want to move forward and communicate with each other. We then back off,” Goldman said.

She added that they would not make matches based on the participant’s disability.

“Just because someone's in a wheelchair doesn't mean that they should be matched with somebody with a similar disability,” said Goldman. “That's not what we're about. We're matching on values and interests and what's important to them.”

Lev Tov Match will host an online launch event on February 24 to introduce other Jewish organisations to the initiative, taking them through their website and processes of verification and matching, with the hope of collaborating with other community organisations as the platform takes off.

The initiative has received praise from Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, who said: “Lev Tov Match exemplifies the Jewish community at its best by enabling Jewish people with learning disabilities to meet others with shared interests and experiences, fostering a caring environment that brings companionship, partnership, and joy.”

If you are an organisation that works with adults with autism, disabilities or additional needs, join its online launch event on February 24 to see the website and processes in action.

Email: info@levtovmatch.com or click here

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