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The Joys Of FriendshipA History of the Association of Jewish Friendship Clubs
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People are living longer, largely as the
result of advances in medicine, nutrition, working conditions, and
improved welfare provisions. The nature of those aged over sixty
has also changed; they are ageing more slowly. With each passing
decade the 60 year old has not only been healthier, but also better
educated, more active, and with wider interests than those who reached
the age of 60 ten years earlier, and they seek organisations that can
cater for their needs. Further, a high percentage of over 60s live
alone, and for some loneliness is a serious problem. Pre-1939 there were no mixed clubs created specifically for the over-60s that addressed these changes. The Association of Jewish Friendship Clubs, founded in 1950, was amongst the pioneers in the field. Organised entirely by volunteers, mostly women, they were so successful and professionally run that more than 120 clubs were opened throughout the country with a combined membership at their peak of 15,000. Starting with providing just tea and biscuits, the developed into centres in which men and women could enjoy varied and stimulating activities, forge new friendships and, more importantly, be relieved of loneliness, where it existed. It enabled many elderly people to remain independent in their own homes for longer than would otherwise have been possible. Just as the nature of the needs of the elderly has constantly changed so too has the nature of the clubs themselves. Throughout its existence the Association successfully improved the lives of thousands of its member, but large Day Centres are replacing the old-style clubs, and the Association is gradually winding down its activities. This book sets the benefits it bestowed on the Jewish community against the background of social work for the elderly in the wider community. |
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| Gerry Black is a retired solicitor and a past-President of the Jewish Historical Society of England. His previous publications include Frank's Way (2008) a biography of the publisher Frank Cass; Jewish London. An illustrated History (2003 and 2007); and J.F.S.: The History of the Jews' Free School, London since 1732 (1998) | ||||
ISBN Price £15 (softback) |
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