The former MP for Ilford North, Lee Scott, took part in a Mitzvah Day event at Haven House on Sunday 22 November with youth members of Woodford Liberal Synagogue.

A group of six teenagers received a presentation about our services, had a tour of the grounds, and then helped with gardening work overseen by Haven House staff.

Mr Scott, Rabbi Richard Jacobi, from Woodford Liberal Synagogue, and several of the teenagers’ parents also received a tour inside the hospice.

Rabbi Richard Jacobi said: “Our children and parents were blown away by the attention to detail in every aspect of care. It was so heartwarming to spend a morning at this hidden jewel in caring for children and their families.

“Woodford Liberal Synagogue is honoured to play a small part in supporting Haven House.”

Following the visit, the Synagogue has pledged to undertake further community projects with the hospice.

Community and Events Fundraiser at Haven House Joanne Lazarus said: “We are delighted that Woodford Liberal Synagogue chose to volunteer at Haven House Children’s Hospice to mark Mitzvah Day.

“The Jewish community is just one of the many different faith groups who support our vital work. Mitzvah Day is a perfect opportunity for us to highlight the important interfaith work that we do.”

Mitzvah Day is the UK’s biggest faith-based day of social action. The aim is to encourage groups and individuals to undertake a range of volunteer projects for those in need in their local community. Mitzvah Day has expanded to include participants from other faith communities as it coincides with the end of UK National Inter Faith Week.