Religious hate crimes smash record in 2025 – sparking a £73.4 million government blitz to protect places of worship nationwide. The funding targets mosques, synagogues, churches, temples, gurdwaras, and more for 2026-2027, aiming to stamp out faith-based attacks once and for all.
Muslims and Jews worst hit by hate crimes
Nearly half (45%) of all religious hate crimes last year targeted Muslims. Jewish communities faced the highest rates relative to their population, with antisemitic incidents hitting the second-highest levels ever recorded, according to the Community Security Trust (CST).
Chancellor Rachel Reeves warned: “This goes beyond cameras and alarms. We’re restoring peace of mind and sending a clear message: religious persecution and intolerance have no place in Britain.”
Where’s the cash going?
- Mosques and Muslim centres: Snagging a massive £40 million, the Protective Security for Mosques Scheme opens rolling applications via the Home Office for mosques, Muslim schools, and community hubs.
- Jewish institutions: £28.4 million goes to the Jewish Community Protective Security Grant, run by the CST, to secure synagogues, schools, and community centres through a separate application process.
- Other faith sites: Christian, Hindu, Sikh, and other groups receive an extra £1.5 million – topping out at £5 million in total – with applications opening later this year.
Government takes a hard line on hate
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood vowed: “No one should have to live a smaller life because of their faith. This funding will make places of worship, faith schools and centres across the UK safer. We will never tolerate religious hatred or intimidation.”
The cash funds CCTV, floodlights, alarms, fencing, and security guards at vulnerable sites. Police are boosting patrols in hate crime hotspots and have new powers to clamp down on repeat offenders and hateful protests.
How faith groups can get protected
- Muslim organisations: Apply anytime through the Home Office’s Protective Security for Mosques Scheme.
- Jewish groups: Apply via the CST’s dedicated protective security grant.
- Christian, Hindu, Sikh, and other faiths: Await the next application window for the Places of Worship Protective Security Scheme opening later in 2026.
