About Us
The Friendship Circle of Elstree & Borehamwood is part of the International Friendship Circle Programme. It was founded on the idea that each child, regardless of his or her challenges, deserves a circle of friends! Through the Friendship Circle, we aim to create a more inclusive community for children with special needs, one that sees the similarities rather than the differences in each and every one of us….
…we are here to build friendships!
Sunday Circle
At the heart of the Sunday Circle Programme, which will take place monthly at the Jewish Life Centre, children with additional needs will be paired with a specially trained teenage buddy, who will engage with kindness and friendship. These friendships will benefit not only children in strengthening their identity, self esteem and sense of belonging within the community, but also teenagers involved will gain leadership skills and learn to see the similarities in those that are different to them, teaching them compassion and empathy. Sunday Circle will include sensory activities, interactive play, lots of music and fun all around!
The big Sunday Circle launch will take place on 28th May. Come along to find out more about what the Friendship Circle can offer your child – see details below
Friends@Home
Friends@Home gives children with additional needs a chance to bond with a teen buddy at the comfort of their own home.
Together they will engage in a multitude of fun activities including baking, playing, creating arts n’ crafts, reading books and more. A weekly playdate that’s all fun on your child’s schedule!
Register your child, and we will be in touch in September when the teen volunteers have been trained and ready to start having a weekly playdate with your child!
Open House
The first open house to launch the Friendship Circle in the community.
Free for your family to join the fun, and learn how the Friendship Circle will support your child.
There will be a petting zoo, interactive sensory activities and a safe space for your child to enjoy taking place at the Jewish Life Centre.
Friendship Circle will start off geared for nursery & primary school children. As we develop we hope to facilitate secondary school and young adult.
Be in touch if you have any questions
The Vision
Inclusivity
Creating an inclusive community where everyone is seen as equal and feels valued.
Purpose
Having a sense of purpose and giving of your time in a meaningful way each week.
Friendship
Creating meaningful friendships in a nurturing and fun environment.
For any questions for the Friendship Circle please contact Lauren who will direct you accordingly – friendshipcircle@jewishlifecentre.org
