Jewish Care business lunch raises a record-breaking £500,000
More than a thousand guests hear from retailer Next's chief executive Lord Wolfson
More than 1,000 guests gathered on Tuesday 3 February in support of Jewish Care’s Topland Group Business Lunch at Grosvenor House, raising a record-breaking £500,000 for the charity’s services.
Now in its 38th year, the 2026 event hosted Lord Wolfson, chief executive of high street retailer Next, in conversation with James Harding, journalist, author and editor-in-chief of The Observer.
In his fundraising appeal to the room, Jewish Care president Steven Lewis said: “Our services are wide-ranging: care homes and retirement living, Meals on Wheels, community centres, dementia support, Holocaust survivor services, a helpline, support groups, mental health services, and so much more. Each plays a vital role in supporting the wellbeing of those who turn to us.”
Setting the scene after an “especially difficult” year for the Jewish community, namely the Heaton Park synagogue and Bondi Beach terror attacks, he added: “For Holocaust survivors particularly, it has been heart-breaking for them to witness a resurgence of antisemitism, which they had previously believed they would never see again. Many have told us that Jewish Care has become their safe haven – a place where they feel protected, supported, and proud of who they are.”
Referencing community mental health charity Jami, welcomed into the Jewish Care fold almost two years ago, Lewis said: “The demand for our services is rising. Our population is ageing. Mental health needs, especially among younger people, are increasing. And pressures on the NHS continue to grow. We are seeing greater need for end-of-life care as well.
“On top of this, the recent increase in employer National Insurance contributions has added a further £1.1 million cost to our wage bill – an immense pressure for a charity like ours. To meet the needs of all who rely on us, Jewish Care must raise nearly £20 million this year. Much of what we provide receives no government funding at all and so we depend on the generosity of people like you.”
The business lunch’s award, given in memory of Philip Greenwold to an outstanding individual or group who has made a significant contribution to others, was presented to Holocaust survivor, educator, and longstanding supporter of Jewish Care Hannah Lewis.
She founded the original Woman of Distinction fundraising lunch for the Jewish Blind Society (now part of Jewish Care), which has since become a key event in the organisation’s calendar and celebrated its 40th lunch this year.
Awarded an MBE for her exceptional contribution to Holocaust education in 2018, Hannah has also served on the boards of both the Holocaust Educational Trust and the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, shaping national remembrance and education.
Receiving the award, Hannah simply said: “I’m not sure that I deserve it, but it is very kind of you and much appreciated.”
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