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Prime Minister Keir Starmer has committed an extra £10 million in security funding aimed at safeguarding Muslim communities from hate crimes and attacks, following a recent surge in violence against Muslims and mosques throughout the UK.
Starmer made the announcement after visiting Peacehaven Mosque in East Sussex, which was the scene of a suspected arson incident earlier this month. Fortunately, no injuries occurred, but the fire caused damage to the mosque’s front entrance and a nearby vehicle. Authorities are investigating the blaze as a hate crime, and while two individuals have been detained, no charges have been filed yet.
The newly allocated funds will be used to enhance security at mosques and Muslim faith centers through the installation of CCTV cameras, alarm systems, secure fencing, and the employment of security personnel, according to government sources.
Starmer stated, “Britain is a proud and tolerant nation. Attacks on any community are attacks on all of us and our core values. This funding will give Muslim communities the protection they need and deserve, allowing them to live peacefully and securely. I envision a Britain that is inclusive for everyone, and my government is dedicated to creating safer streets—this includes safeguarding places of worship from those driven by hate and violence.”
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the mosque attack as an appalling act, emphasizing how easily it could have resulted in more severe consequences. She reaffirmed the country’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and condemned violence and intimidation against any faith community, underscoring the importance of unity in response to such efforts to divide.
During the visit, relatives of a mosque member who had become withdrawn after the attack shared with the Prime Minister that he was deeply traumatized and that the mosque was his life.
Starmer acknowledged the community’s suffering, saying, “It’s sad that we even need security in places of worship, but this reality reflects the responsibility I have, along with the Home Secretary and your local MP, to do everything possible to combat hate crimes and show our support and solidarity.”
The additional £10 million will bolster the Protective Security for Mosques Scheme, which already allocates over $29 million annually to protect Muslim community centers and faith schools vulnerable to hate crimes.
Recent government statistics reveal that anti-Muslim hate crimes increased by 19% in the year ending March 2025, with Muslims accounting for 44% of all religious hate crimes.
Akeela Ahmed, CEO of the British Muslim Trust, welcomed the funding, stating that everyone deserves to live peacefully without fear. She highlighted the distress currently felt in Muslim communities, where mosques have been vandalized, set on fire, and worshippers targeted with verbal and physical assaults. She added, “This funding will be crucial in helping Muslim communities across Britain feel safe, secure, and supported as they continue their faith.”
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