‘Not special treatment, just fair solutions’ Charedi leaders hold talks with MPs in Westminster

Senior Charedi community leaders from across the UK have held a meeting with ministers and MPs in Westminster, during which the assembled politicians were given a full picture of the practical issues affecting Orthodox families right now.

Motty Pinter, Director of Communal Affairs at the Interlink Foundation, emphasised the significance of the event:“The importance of this roundtable in the House of Commons was not only in the issues raised, but in constituency MPs hearing directly from those delivering services on the ground,” he said.

“The Charedi community is not asking for special treatment, but for practical and fair solutions that allow our families to live safely, educate our children, and access the same support as everyone else. I am grateful to the MPs who attended, and to those who sent senior representatives, for their continued commitment to engaging with our community.

“MPs heard directly how current policies are affecting real families and essential community services. We now need that understanding to be translated into urgent action across the government.”

Security matters featured prominently on the agenda during the talks, which were hosted by the Interlink Foundation and held inside the historic House of Commons Committee Room 15.

MPs in attendance included  Finchley and Golders Green MP Sarah Sackman, Tottenham MP David Lammy, Mark Ferguson,  Chipping Barnet MP Dan Tomlinson, Hendon’s David Pinto-Duschinsky,  Bury South’s Christian Wakeford, and David Burton-Sampson.

A broad cross-section of communal organisations—including the Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations, the Federation of Synagogues, Chinuch UK, Interlink, Agudas Israel Housing Association, Hatzola, Shomrim, Chaverim, Bikur Cholem, and Chevra Kadisha services—attempted to provide a comprehensive picture of life for the growing Charedi community.

Shomrim leaders explained the vital role volunteers play in responding to antisemitic incidents, missing-person cases, burglaries, and welfare issues, often acting as a bridge between the community and the police.

MPs were urged to support sustainable Home Office funding for Shomrim’s patrols, communications, training, and community safety work.

Chairmen of Hatzola branches from across the UK raised the need for a lawful route allowing trained emergency responders to use blue lights when attending life-threatening calls.

Practical solutions were discussed, with representatives sharing examples where arriving even one minute earlier could have meant the difference between life and death.

MPs appeared strongly supportive of finding workable solutions.

Housing was also high on the agenda. Large families, limited suitable homes, and the need to live within walking distance of synagogues, schools, and transport links have created severe pressure in Charedi areas—both in London and further afield.

Community leaders highlighted the Government’s 2023 street votes legislation, which is intended to allow residents on a street to propose additional development—such as extra storeys or roof extensions—subject to safeguards and a local vote.

With clear guidance, this could give Charedi neighbourhoods a way to unlock desperately needed family housing.

The policy has passed through Parliament, but the community is now waiting for guidance from local authorities so it can become a practical solution on the ground.

MPs also heard about unnecessary delays in Jewish burial, especially over weekends and bank holidays.

Under halacha, burial should take place as soon as possible, so communal representatives called for a clearer out-of-hours pathway involving medical examiners, coroners, and registrars. Education was also highlighted as one of the most urgent issues discussed.

The roundtable concluded with a commitment to continue discussions and pursue the issues with the relevant government departments.