Government announces funding to protect Muslims

The UK government has announced funding to protect mosques, Muslim faith schools and other community centres.

Up to £29.4 million has been made available this year. This figure includes an uplift of £4.9 million since the 7 October attacks.

The funding will be spent on protective security measures including technology such as CCTV, alarm systems and secure perimeter fencing at mosques, Muslim faith community centres, and Muslim faith schools.  

The eadline for the Protective Security for Mosques Scheme has also been extended.

Last month, the government pledged more than £70 million over the next four years to the Community Security Trust to protect Jewish community sites, as part of the Jewish Community Protective Security Grant.

The government says that funding was allocated to reflect the number of community sites used by each faith. British Muslims make up 14 times more of England and Wales’ population than British Jews.

Home Secretary James Cleverly said: "Anti-Muslim hatred has absolutely no place in our society. We will not let events in the Middle East be used as an excuse to justify abuse against British Muslims.

"The Prime Minister has made clear that we stand with Muslims in the UK. That is exactly why we have committed to this funding, giving reassurance and confidence to UK Muslims at a time when it is crucially needed."

Security Minister Tom Tugendhat said: "This funding demonstrates that this government stands firmly against hate crimes, abuse, threats or harassment against British Muslims.

"We continue to work closely with policing and community partners to ensure the safety and security of British Muslims."