Jewish Blind & Disabled (JBD) is the only organisation within the Jewish community dedicated to enabling adults aged 18 and over who have physical disabilities or vision impairments to live independently with dignity and choice. Established over 50 years ago, JBD provides specially adapted mobility apartments across seven unique developments in North and North East London and Hertfordshire, with an eighth development due to open its doors in early 2026.
Only 7% of England’s housing provides the most basic features of accessibility making it suitable for people with disabilities. Sadly, as a result, many people with disabilities are living in unsuitable housing and not surprisingly, 38% of people who have a long-term physical condition also experience severe mental health problems.
However, there is help at hand and we know that having suitable, accessible housing is the key to being able to live an independent life. Our apartments are specially designed to enable people to do the everyday tasks that are key to living independently, in safety with their own front door. All apartments feature accessible, modern fitted kitchens with relevant aids and adaptations and walk in shower rooms spacious enough to accommodate wheelchairs.
Our 24/7 onsite support from our House Managers provide tenants with peace of mind knowing that support is on hand if there is an issue. Our Tenancy Support Team provides additional assistance to tenants who require support with benefits, care packages, aids and adaptations.
Our developments provide warm and welcoming supportive Jewish communities within the wider local Community. Should they wish, tenants can engage in a range of regular events in our communal areas and online.
The majority of our tenants and people we support in their own homes are not born with a disability, instead, at some point in their lives they face a diagnosis that will have a significant impact on their life from that time forward. For many, this comes as a shocking and unexpected diagnosis that can feel like a total loss of dependence and self-worth. But, there is help at hand and it doesn’t have to be this way.
In addition to our developments, the Independent Living Advisory Service assists people living in their own homes to remain independent. This Occupational Therapist-led service provides advice on aids, adaptations, and assistive technologies, helping individuals maintain independence without relocating. Initial assessments are free for those who meet the criteria and are living within the M25.
To reach more people in the community, we have established monthly sight loss support groups and we have partnered with Jewish Care to run the JEMS group for people impacted by Multiple Sclerosis.
Demand for JBD’s services has significantly increased since the pandemic, and we anticipate continued growth. As an independent charity that does not receive any government funding, we rely on donations and legacies to sustain and expand our work. Every contribution helps us protect and support our tenants and meet rising needs across the community.
To learn more or support our work, please visit www.jbd.org or contact Rachel Barres at rachel@jbd.org or 020 8371 6611.