Welcome from our Chairman to the Shul by the Sea!
Message from the Chairman of SWHC. (120 years young in 2026)
Hi
My name is Dennis Baum and I’ve lived here all my life, married here, have two daughters living here and have recently been blessed with a grandson. I am the recently elected Chairman of our community and hope you will read further and let me share some information with you.
If you are reading this you are interested in the Jewish Community of our wonderful City of Southend-on-Sea which is to the East of London and benefits from two mainline train lines, one going into Liverpool Street (under an hour) and the other to Fenchurch Street (50 minutes) and with direct access to Westfield Shopping Centre (Stratford) and Lakeside Shopping Centre (Thurrock). Additionally, we have two quick major roads lead which give easy access to all parts of London. We also have a rapidly expanding international airport which flies to destinations throughout Europe.
Property prices are considerably cheaper than London and we benefit from the seaside air and, almost, the lowest rainfall in the UK. We also have first class educational facilities for children of all ages, including 4 grammar schools.
SWHC is a long-established orthodox community with a large Shul and, as you would expect, various Jewish social and fund-raising committees. Our City also has a thriving Hassidim community, a Chabad group and a Reform Shul, a Kosher Shop, a Mikveh and our own Jewish Cemetery – so whatever suits your choice, we have it.
We welcome anyone wishing to visit our Shul and/or making enquires to join and if you’re interested please call the Shul office (01702 344 900) or email me (dennis@swhc.org.uk) and I will be delighted to answer your questions, give you a tour or just have a chat.
Dennis Baum
Chairman of SWHC
