Kisharon and Langdon size up merger to boost support for autism, learning disabilities

Kisharon and Langdon will hold listening exercises with key stakeholders in the coming weeks in preparation for a possible merger to meet the increased demand on their services.  

The key stakeholders will include staff, parents, guardians and the people with disabilities the organisations support. The intention is to continue developing a joint strategy to facilitate the best possible learning disability and/or autism offering for the Jewish community.

Kisharon offers education, opportunity, and support for over 350 people with learning disabilities and their families, which includes supported living accommodation and employment opportunities.

Langdon offers supported living, education, employment support and social activities for hundreds of people across the UK with learning disabilities and autism.

Founded in 1992, Langdon College began with six students and was named after Margaret Langdon, a prominent Manchester Jewish philanthropist and activist in community care, who set up Delamere Forest School in 1921.

In a joint statement, Richard Franklin, chief executive of Kisharon, and Neil Taylor, chief executive of Langdon, said: “Kisharon and Langdon support people with learning disabilities across the community. The charities’ priority is for those we support to feel engaged with and supported by the services offered.”

“Together, Langdon and Kisharon will identify the best ways to continue to serve the interests of people with autism and learning disabilities and their families, from early years and continuing throughout life’s journey.”

“It is imperative that people with learning disabilities and autism are valued as contributors to our society, and, through ambitious and personalised support, are empowered to thrive,” the statement added.

Keith Black, chair of the Jewish Leadership Council, said: “For some time, the JLC has spoken about the desirability of organisations working together and pooling resources for the good of the community. We are delighted that two key JLC members, Kisharon and Langdon, are showing the way on this for the community.”