The UK government has announced an additional £10 million in funding to enhance the security of mosques, Muslim community centres, and faith schools across the country, following a rise in religious hate crimes. The funding, part of the Protective Security for Mosques Scheme, will provide vital security measures such as CCTV, alarm systems, secure fencing, and access to security personnel services. This investment builds on the £29.4 million already allocated earlier this year, allowing more sites to benefit from protection against attacks and hate crimes.
The announcement comes in the wake of several recent incidents targeting Muslim communities, including the arson attack on Peacehaven Mosque in East Sussex on 4 October and earlier disturbances affecting mosques in Southport, Hull, and Sunderland. These attacks have caused significant distress, highlighting the urgent need for strengthened safety measures. Recent statistics indicate that anti-Muslim hate crimes rose by 19% in the year ending March 2025, with 44% of all religious hate crimes directed at Muslims.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that attacks on any community threaten the nation’s values and affirmed that the funding will ensure Muslim communities can live in peace and safety. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood condemned violence and intimidation against faith groups, stressing the importance of defending the right to practice religion freely.
Community leaders welcomed the funding, highlighting its importance in safeguarding freedom of religious belief and restoring a sense of security. Akeela Ahmed, CEO of the British Muslim Trust, noted that the additional resources would help Muslim communities feel protected and reassured after a period marked by fear and intimidation due to targeted attacks on places of worship.
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