The compilation of a "yellow pages" of provisions for women at United Synagogues is one product of a US Women open forum.

More than 30 women from 10 congregations gathered at Hampstead Garden Suburb Synagogue to discuss issues including batmitzvah, reciting Kaddish, reading the Megillah, opportunities for single women and Jewish education programmes.

US Women committee member Anne Godfrey said the aim was assess the current situation and to suggest improvements.

"While some women were happy with the status quo, some wanted change. We discussed feeling frustrated as a spectator in shul."

Another committee member, Denise Connick, is planning a pilot singles group for women aged 30 to 50.

The next forum will be in Borehamwood in November.