Jewish Community
The Jewish Community in Britain
The Jewish community in Britain, currently numbering approximately 270,000 people (as of July 2017), has a rich history spanning hundreds of years and is spread across the country. From Bristol to London, Brighton to Nottingham, the many beautiful and ornate synagogues reflect the deep historical presence of Anglo-Jewry and the diversity of Jewish life in England.
Since the late 19th century, following the full emancipation of Anglo-Jewry, Jews in England have largely lived freely and securely, in contrast to other European Jewish communities. During the Holocaust, many Jewish homes in England provided safe havens for European refugees fleeing persecution. Over the years, British Jews have made significant contributions to the nation’s spiritual, intellectual, commercial, and political life, earning widespread recognition for their impact on society.
While the overall UK Jewish population has declined by over 25%, the number of Jewish children receiving full-time education in Jewish day schools has increased by over 500%. Jewish schools in London, Liverpool, and Manchester have set high academic standards, reflecting a strong commitment to education within the community.
Jewish Education in Britain
Since World War II, there has been a significant rise in the number of Jewish primary schools established within the state education system. Today, the UK has:
✔ 25 state-aided Jewish primary and secondary schools.
✔ A large number of independent Jewish schools, primarily serving the Orthodox and Haredi communities, many of which hold charitable tax-exempt status.
Unlike in most other Diaspora countries, where Jewish schools are primarily private institutions with little to no government funding, England took a different approach. As early as 1853, a small number of Jewish schools received state support, and over time, many were integrated into the publicly funded education system. This has made Jewish schools accessible to families from all financial backgrounds, though they are also required to follow a strict secular curriculum.
Today, there are 19 Jewish schools across the UK, offering a blend of Jewish and secular education.
Britain’s Relationship with the Jewish People and Israel
The British government has had a long and complex relationship with both British Jewry and the State of Israel. From issuing the Balfour Declaration (1917), which supported the establishment of a Jewish homeland, to later restricting Jewish immigration to Palestine in the aftermath of the Holocaust, British policy has often reflected shifting political interests.
In recent years, the UK has taken a strong stance against:
✔ Anti-Semitism in Europe and the Middle East.
✔ International terrorism.
✔ Challenges to Israel’s right to defend its borders.
While Britain’s historical relationship with the Jewish state has been nuanced, today, the UK continues to engage with Israel on diplomatic, economic, and security matters, recognizing its role in global affairs.
For more information on the U.K. Jewish community: