Jewish groups roll out London-wide coronavirus helpline

Jewish groups have rolled out a London-wide coronavirus advice helpline in a bid to combat the spread of the virus in the community.

The non-emergency Covid-19 Kehillah helpline, which can be contacted on 020 3322 8384, is meant to answer any questions members of the community may have about the virus, including self isolation and common symptoms.

It was set up by the medical advocacy charity MARS together with other Jewish organisations such as Hatzola, Ezra Umarpeh, Lecheiris, the Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations and Bikur Cholem.

The number of coronavirus-related fatalities has jumped to 478 among UK Jews as of last Friday, up from 458 the previous week, according to data collated by the Board of Deputies.

MARS, which has expanded its health and financial support services during the pandemic, has supplied 64 oxygen machines to families shielding or isolating at home.

Figures shared by MARS reveal that nearly half of all 1,350 cases taken on by the charity this year were related to Covid-19.

The charity’s founder and director, Rabbi Hershel Grunfeld, said: “From my experience, I know how overwhelming a sickness in the family can be and the huge impact that it can have on so many people – even more so during these unprecedented and scary times.

“MARS is here to support anyone going through similarly difficult situations. We will do our utmost to ease those feelings of anxiety by ensuring that patients and their family members are able to understand their particular situation and the solutions available to them.

“We have helped people from all different parts of London’s Jewish community. No one has to do it alone. We are always here to help whatever your circumstances.”

• You can use the NHS 111 online service if you believe you may have the coronavirus to find out when, whether and where to get medical help.