Kisharon and Langdon have launched a ‘listening exercise’ on a proposed merger.

Joining forces will offer optimum support for people with learning disabilities and autism across the Jewish community.

The charities will operate as usual in the coming weeks as trustees meet stakeholders. Discussion groups will focus on the charities bolstering front-line support.

The exercise ends in December. An update is expected early 2023.

People supported by Kisharon and Langdon are already benefiting from services by both organisations.

“The charities’ priority is for those we support to feel engaged with and supported by the services offered,” said Kisharon and Langdon CEO’s Richard Franklin and Neil Taylor in a joint statement.

“It is imperative that people with learning disabilities and autism are valued as contributors to our society, and, through ambitious and personalised support, are empowered to thrive. Combining our efforts has the potential to significantly enhance our collective service offer for the people we support, both now and in the future. We are excited to take this next step of the journey together.”

Following any merger Kisharon and Langdon will ensure people supported continue to receive personalised packages. Religious and cultural needs will be met.

Keith Black, Jewish Leadership Council, welcomed the charities “showing the way” to the community. “The JLC has spoken about the desirability of organisations pooling resources for the good of the community,” she said.

Rabbi Jeremy Conway, Kosher London Beth Din, added: “Our daughter Deena benefits hugely from these excellent organisations. It is really exciting to see them coming together to further enhance the Jewish provision for our special needs community.”

Professor Vic Rayner, Chief National Care Forum, recognised both as “sector-leading organisations”.

She noted: “The idea of their coming together to provide an even stronger offer is incredibly exciting.”

In 2020, Kisharon, Langdon, Norwood, PaJes and Gesher commissioned a report on learning disability and special educational needs in the community.

The Cordis Bright report concluded that main providers must combine its skills given the growing demands against consistent government underfunding.

In 2021, Langdon and Kisharon worked for nine months with management consultants to consider how best to work closer together. Trustee boards concluded a merger should be explored.

Questions can be directed to sonialeigh@Langdonuk.org or felicia.beder@kisharon.org.uk