The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) has released new national guidance advising mosques to conduct lockdown drills, strengthen ties with police, and improve CCTV coverage amid growing concerns about anti-Muslim attacks.
New Security Framework
The MCB's security and preparedness framework, aimed at mosques, trustees, and volunteers, warns that places of worship and community centres face increasing threats from vandalism, intimidation, threats, and targeted hostility. The guidance provides practical advice on responding to incidents, including lockdown procedures, emergency response planning, incident reporting systems, and measures to enhance relationships with local authorities and police.
Recent Attacks and Rising Hate Crime
A series of recent attacks targeting Muslim communities, including an incident at the home of an imam in Bolton, and heightened fears after racist riots in Belfast, have prompted the MCB to urge its nearly 500 affiliated mosques and community centres to remain vigilant for potential further violence. Imams are encouraged to use Friday sermons to share messages of hope, unity, and resilience.
Home Office figures released last October show recorded hate crime in England and Wales rising for the first time in three years, including increases in racially and religiously motivated offences. Among the 3.9 million Muslims in England and Wales, anti-Muslim hate crime rose from 2,690 to 3,199 offences in the 12 months to March 2025.
Phased Security Roadmap
The guidance sets out a phased roadmap for improving security over three, 12, and 36 months. Initial recommendations include appointing a dedicated safety lead, conducting a walkthrough security assessment, identifying CCTV blind spots, and establishing clear lockdown and “hold and secure” procedures. Common vulnerabilities identified include a lack of named safety officers, weak police links, uncontrolled access points, poor lighting, and volunteers unsure how to respond during emergencies.
Threats identified include graffiti, vandalism, arson attempts, abuse and intimidation at entrances, suspicious individuals loitering, threats during busy prayer times, and bomb threats or suspicious packages. The framework encourages mosques to build stronger relationships with neighbours, councillors, local businesses, and other faith groups to ensure faster and calmer responses to incidents.
Community Concerns
Wajid Akhter, MCB secretary general, said communities remain concerned about a repeat of recent summer unrest. He referenced the anniversary of the 2017 Finsbury Park terrorist attack, stating that the horror of that night remains a stark reminder of unchecked Islamophobia. He criticised dehumanising rhetoric against ethnic minorities, immigrants, and Muslims in public discourse, which he said directly translates to heightened anxiety and vulnerability.
An anonymous survey conducted after recent disorder in Northern Ireland revealed widespread fear among Muslim communities. One respondent living in accommodation attached to a mosque described a constant state of fear and anxiety following attacks on homes, businesses, and vehicles. Another reported young men going door to door looking for foreigners, while a Muslim hijabi woman was recently chased by racists on her way to work. Support for those affected by anti-Muslim hate crime has been limited, with many feeling unsafe carrying out normal daily activities.
Akhter said the guidance is about empowering communities to remain vigilant, build strong local relationships and allies, and have structures in place to respond effectively.
