17/08/2026
Protection should come before an attack - not after one.
Yet current government guidance states that applications to the Protective Security for Mosques Scheme are unlikely to succeed without “strong evidence” of risk or a clear link to hate crime.
This places the burden on mosques to demonstrate that the threat is serious enough, often after hostility or harm has already occurred.
Our latest findings recorded over 70 attacks on mosques across the UK in one year, including vandalism, intimidation, assault and arson. In Peacehaven, two people were inside when attackers set fire to a mosque. Other incidents have included threatening behaviour, smashed windows and the deliberate targeting of mosques with hateful symbols and objects.
The Government has committed up to £40 million to mosque security for 2026-27. This support is important, but funding must also be accessible when communities need it. Mosques have reported lengthy waits, unsuccessful applications and a lack of clarity around decisions.
CCTV, security guards, reinforced doors and perimeter fencing may help protect worshippers, but mosques should never have been placed in a position where these measures feel necessary simply because they are Muslim places of worship.
Protection must be proactive, accessible and based on the reality of the threat facing Muslim communities, not dependent on a mosque first having to prove how vulnerable it is.
If you have experienced or witnessed anti-Muslim hate, report it to the British Muslim Trust through the link in our bio. You can also report an incident by:
☎️ Calling or WhatsApping us on 0808 172 3524
💬 Texting us on 07537 412489
📧 Emailing us at [email protected]
🔗 Visiting britishmuslimtrust.co.uk/report-hate
