The UK government is providing an extra $13 million in security funding for mosques and Islamic centres to protect them from hate crimes and attacks.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer made the announcement during a visit to Peacehaven Mosque in East Sussex.
The mosque was targeted in an arson attack on October 4th.
Starmer says the financial boost demonstrates his government’s commitment to ensuring Muslim communities get the protection they need and deserve.
‘Britain is a proud and tolerant country. Attacks on any community are attacks on our entire nation and our values. This funding will provide Muslim communities with the protection they need and deserve, allowing them to live in peace and safety.
‘I want a Britain built for all and my government is committed to delivering safer streets for everyone – and that means protecting places of worship from those who seek to divide us through hate and violence,’ said Starmer.
The funds are expected to provide vital security measures including CCTV, alarm systems, secure fencing and security personnel services.
Earlier this year, the UK government allocated nearly $40 million for mosques and Islamic schools.
The Protective Security for Mosques Scheme protects mosques, Muslim community centres and Islamic schools that have experienced or are vulnerable to hate crime.
‘Appalling crime’
UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood condemned the attack on Peacehaven Mosque.
“The attack on the Peacehaven Mosque was an appalling crime, that could easily have led to an even more devastating outcome.
“I am proud of this country because of the rights we all have to follow the faith of our choosing, and to live free from hatred and fear.
“That right must be defended. Violence and intimidation directed at any community or faith are attacks on us all. We must stand together against those who seek to divide us.”
Two men have charged with setting fire to the mosque and will stand trial on 14 November.
They are accused of pouring flammable liquid on the building and setting it alight while two worshippers were inside.
The mosque’s front entrance and a car parked outside were damaged in the attack.
Police in Sussex previously said they were treating the incident as a hate crime.
Living in fear
Community leaders have warned that Muslims in the UK are now living in fear.
“Freedom of religious belief and practice is a cornerstone of British values. Everyone deserves to live their life peacefully and without the threat of fear and intimidation simply for being who they are.
“Sadly, this is not the case for too many members of our Muslim communities. They have become fearful and apprehensive as their Mosques, places dedicated to faith, love and peace, have been vandalised, set on fire and worshippers abused and assaulted.
“We welcome the announcement of this funding which will play a key role in helping members of Britain’s Muslim communities feel the safety and reassurance they need and deserve,’ said Akeela Ahmed, the chief executive of British Muslim Trust.
The UK has recently witnessed an alarming surge in attacks on mosques.
Anti-Muslim hate crimes have risen by 19% in the year ending March 2025, according to the government.
About 44% of all religious hate crimes have targeted Muslims.
