KeshetUK partners with Switchboard to strengthen support for LGBT+ Jews

KeshetUK, the UK’s Jewish LGBT+ education and training charity, has announced a new partnership with Switchboard, the national LGBTQIA+ helpline, to deliver specialist training and guidance on inclusion to all Switchboard volunteers.

Every year, Switchboard handles around 15,000-30,000 calls messages and emails. According to the 2021 UK census there are approximately 9,600 LGBT+ Jews in England and Wales.

Through this new partnership, KeshetUK will build on Switchboard’s existing training, enhancing volunteer confidence and ensuring they can continue to provide informed, inclusive support to callers who identify as both Jewish and LGBT+.

Research consistently shows that LGBT+ individuals are more likely to experience anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts than the general population, driven by stigma, discrimination and social isolation. In the UK, LGB+ people are significantly more likely to die by suicide compared to their heterosexual counterparts (ONS, 2026) with the risk of drug-related death three times higher for LGBT+ people (ONS, 2026).

These challenges can be compounded by the recent rise in antisemitism across the UK, increasing fear, stress and a sense of insecurity in everyday life.

Ariel Chapman, executive director of KeshetUK, said: “At a time when many in our community are telling us that they are afraid and experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety, this partnership will ensure that LGBT+ Jews can access timely and appropriate support whenever they need it. KeshetUK has been trusted by the Jewish community to deliver impactful education and training for over ten years and it’s a privilege to bring this work to Switchboard.”

Stephanie Fuller, chief executive of Switchboard, said: “Since 1974, Switchboard has been providing a safe space for all parts of the LGBTQIA+ Communities. We never know what the next conversation will be about, and we don’t judge. Our purpose is to provide a safe space for anyone within our community, regardless of their background.

“For many within our community, faith is an important part of their lives, yet it sometimes conflicts with their identities. We have a continuous programme of learning for all of our listening volunteers on a wide range of subjects, including faith and minority groups, and we recognise the importance of this partnership with KeshetUK as significant to the Jewish members of the LGBTQIA+ community in a time of rising concern”