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JSCN summit to focus on memory, resilience, and the future of UK Jewry
National gathering in Birmingham to feature survivors of 7 October and sessions on antisemitism, and community growth
The Jewish Small Communities Network (JSCN) has announced details of its third annual summit, which will bring together communities from across the UK under the theme “Empowering Memory & Building a Future.”
The event will be held on Sunday, 7 September 2025, at Central Synagogue in Birmingham, following previous summits that focused on welfare and the impact of the 7 October attacks.
Key sessions will include a keynote from Dr Keith Kahn-Harris, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Jewish Policy Research, exploring how Jewish communities can remain rooted in ordinary life during turbulent times.
Survivors from Kibbutz Be’eri, Yigal Chetrit and Nieve Higgins, will also share their experiences of the Hamas attacks and the challenges of rebuilding their community.
The programme features an opening address by Lord Katz, presentations from Israel Community in Europe (ICE) on collaborations between Israelis in the UK and local communities, and a panel discussion with Lord Katz, Shai Doitsh (ICE), Alex Webster (CST), Jonny Wineberg (funding), and Ben Sweiry (antisemitism).
Breakout sessions will cover topics ranging from antisemitism in schools and sport to preparing for older age and the history of the Bath Jewish Burial Ground. A community “Shuk” marketplace will also allow delegates to connect with leading Jewish organisations including AJEX, Jewish Care, Jewish Women’s Aid, and UJIA.
The summit comes just days after JSCN’s annual ONE Shabbat, taking place on 5-6 September, which brings together more than 100 smaller communities and households across the country.
Ed Horwich, JSCN’s chief executive, said: “People love ONE Shabbat. When I ask them what it is they like, they say it makes them feel a real part of British Jewry. Communities can feel isolated as well as individuals, and it’s humbling to know that something we do at JSCN means so much.”
Stuart Diamond, Head of Community Engagement, added: “ONE Shabbat isn’t just about bringing communities together; it’s a powerful statement of Jewish pride. In a world where it’s easy to feel isolated, especially in smaller towns, this day gives us a chance to stand up and say, ‘We are here, we are vibrant, and our heritage is a source of immense joy.’”
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