UK Mosques Receive Record £66 Million Security Funding After Southport Disorder

UK Mosques Receive Record £66 Million Security Funding After Southport Disorder
———————————-
Mosques and Islamic community sites across the United Kingdom received a record £66 million in emergency security funding following violent unrest after the 2024 Southport attack, according to figures reported by The Guardian. The funding highlights growing concerns over threats faced by Muslim communities and places of worship.

The Home Office provided the emergency funds after mosques and other sites were targeted during disorder that followed the Southport incident, which was accompanied by the spread of false online claims about the attacker’s background.

Separate figures show that mosques, Islamic schools and related sites received around £41 million in protective security funding during the 2025–26 financial year, marking the highest annual amount under the scheme.

The British Muslim Trust, which works with the government on monitoring anti-Muslim hatred, said the rising security needs reflect increased hostility and attacks against Muslim communities. The organization has called for efforts to address the causes of anti-Muslim hatred rather than focusing only on security measures.

Community representatives have also raised concerns that some mosques still face difficulties accessing support. Several Islamic centers have introduced their own security measures while awaiting funding decisions.

The UK government said it remains committed to protecting faith communities, with additional funding available through protective security programs to help places of worship improve safety measures.