We're delighted to announce that Plymouth Jewish Community CIC has been invited to speak at Hope Into Action! Facing Up to Our Future Together, a summit for Southwest Jewish communities hosted by the Jewish Small Communities Network (JSCN) in partnership with Wessex Jewish News.
The day brings together Jewish people from across the South West to talk honestly about where our communities are today and where we go next. The programme includes a special keynote speaker, sessions on Southwest Jewry, a panel discussion on the challenges our communities face, and a guest musical finale.
What we'll be talking about
We'll be sharing the story of our work in Plymouth and the thinking behind it. Our approach is what we call radical moderation, built on three foundations:
Place. Plymouth's Jewish community dates back to the 1740s. We didn't just arrive here. We helped build here, and Jewish life belongs at the heart of our city.
Pride. Many Jewish people in the South West feel isolated, from each other and from a wider world that often understands little about Jewish life today. Our answer is not to hide but to be seen, through public celebrations like our Giant Menorah in the Civic Square and Klezmer by the Sea. Presence is the argument, and joy is the tool.
Purpose. Memory runs through our tradition, but it was never meant to be a place to stay. We honour those who came before us by building what they never had the chance to.
None of this happens alone. Our allies in local government, schools, faith communities and businesses are active partners in making Jewish life visible, and we'll be talking about how small communities can go out and find theirs.
Growing through Empowering Leadership
Our approach has been hugely strengthened by taking part in JSCN's Empowering Leadership Programme. Working alongside lay leaders from small communities across the country, we've learned how to tell our community's story with confidence, lead from Jewish values, turn those values into real action, and build something that lasts beyond any one person. It has shaped how we plan, how we work with volunteers and partners, and how we think about the future of Jewish life in Plymouth.
For every Jewish person in a small community
Whether you're part of an established congregation, reconnecting with your heritage, or one of only a handful of Jewish people in your town, this summit is for you. Our message is simple: you're not on your own, and there is a future worth building together.
Event details
Date: Sunday 15th November 2026
Location: Bournemouth
Tickets: £15 individual, £25 couple, including buffet lunch
Book online: jscn.org.uk/events
We'd love to see you there. All communities could do with a little more joy and a little less oy!
