Barnet Council has bestowed the Honorary Freedom of the Borough upon three organisations in recognition of their exceptional service to the community. The honour, described as the most honourable award it is in the council's privilege to bestow
and the highest honour,
formally records the high esteem in which these organisations are held by the Council and the community.
Hatzola Northwest, Hatzola Edgware, Hatzola HBS, the Community Security Trust (CST), and Shomrim North West London were all honoured at an extraordinary council meeting on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The council unanimously agreed to confer the honour upon the organisations in recognition of their extraordinary contributions to the borough,
in pursuance of section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972.
Hatzola was commended for its outstanding contribution to the health and well-being of Barnet residents through the provision of a free, 24-hour volunteer emergency medical response service.
Councillors highlighted the volunteers' resilience, particularly following a despicable arsenal attack
on their ambulances in Golders Green on March 23, 2026. Despite the attack, the volunteers continued their emergency medical response service, demonstrating their dedication.
Shomrim was recognised for its role as a volunteer-led community safety organisation
that provides patrols to deter crime, offer reassurance, and respond to emergencies, including antisemitic incidents. Their volunteers were praised for running towards danger to support victims and assist emergency services, notably during a terrorist attack on Golders Green Road on April 30, 2026. Shomrim volunteers were among the first on the scene, safeguarding the public and assisting emergency services.
The Community Security Trust (CST) was acknowledged for its work in ensuring Jewish people can lead lives of their choice and for being Britain's leading expert on the data, detail, cause and impact of contemporary antisemitism.
The council noted CST's provision of security advice and equipment to Jewish institutions and its role in informing public policy. The CST's research regularly informs public policy and helps to safeguard wider British society
and it administers the Home Office's protective security grant that contributes towards security at Jewish locations, Jewish community locations.
During the debate, Councillor Barry Rawlings stated, We simply could not have responded to these challenges we currently face without these two remarkable security organisations.
Barnet Council is facing challenges due to a shocking wave of anti-Semitic incidents,
which include ensuring the safety of Jewish residents attending schools, synagogues, and Jewish organisations. Councillor Dean Cohen MBE added, By conferring the freedom of the borough, we show our gratitude and support for all the work they do and will continue to do.
Further details on the council's agenda and public reports can be found in the Agenda frontsheet and Public reports pack for the July 7, 2026 meeting.
