27/06/2025
Jewish patients, visitors and staff now have a peaceful place to pray and rest whilst at Southend Hospital, thanks to the opening of a new prayer space to help them observe Shabbat.
Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest, running from Friday evening until Saturday night and is a special time each week for prayer, reflection and family, where many people step back from everyday routines.
The space is located within the hospital’s Chaplaincy Suite and has been thoughtfully designed to offer comfort, dignity and privacy. It includes a kosher microwave and freezer, water urn, washing facilities, a cupboard with kosher food and drink, a small food store for children, and a resting area.
Members of the Orthodox synagogue in Westcliff, the charity Gezint, and representatives from the Haredi communities in both Westcliff and Canvey attended the opening event to show their support.
David, Lead Chaplain at the Trust, said: “Hospital can feel like a world away from daily life, so we wanted to create an area that feels personal, comforting and familiar – somewhere that offers a sense of calm in the middle of what can often be a stressful time.
“Everything in the space has been carefully thought through to meet practical needs while showing real care for the community it serves.”
Rabbi Isaac Kohn, Director of Gezint, a charity supporting Jewish health and wellbeing, said: “For many Jewish patients and families, being in hospital especially over Shabbat can be really difficult. You might be here for hours, with a child or waiting for treatment. Having a dedicated space like this means you don’t have to worry about kosher food and prayers – it’s wonderful to see the hospital recognising and supporting our needs.”
The new area is now open and available to any Jewish patients, staff or visitors who would like to use it.
