VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: Paul Stanton

When the Coronovirus epidemic caused Catford and Bromley Synagogue to close and for many members to shield in their homes, it was clear that some in the community might need some extra help. This was an opportunity for members to pull together andensure that support was on hand. A clarion call went out and was answered immediately, mainly by our younger members. Our Action Group was formed and continues to be led by Paul Stanton.

Whenever a request for help is received, a member of the group steps up immediately whatever the task, whether that be to to get some shopping, pick up a prescription or have a friendly chat with someone feeling isolated.  No call goes unanswered.

Catford and Bromley Synagogue has 235 members, 70 per cent of whom are over 70 years old, living across south-east London and north Kent. When Pesach food parcels needed to be distributed, the Action Group swung into gear. And last year, they made sure that all who requested yellow Holocaust Memorial candles received them.

Fortunately, the Action Group has never been inundated , which demonstrates how well we support each other. Paul said, “It has been a privilege to supply a safety net for any who have found that they needed one. What use is a community if it cannot look after its own?”