Extra £5m pledged for patrolling places of worship

The Home Office has announced additional funding of £5 million to enhance security measures at places of worship in London and Manchester. This allocation aims to bolster police presence and support efforts to safeguard communities from potential threats.

Security minister Dan Jarvis emphasized the importance of the funds, stating they will aid in “keeping people safe in the communities where they reside, work, and practice their faith.” The decision comes in response to a recent arson incident in Golders Green, northwest London, where four Jewish community ambulances were damaged last month, as well as a terror attack on a Manchester synagogue in October of last year. Rising Islamophobia has also prompted calls for increased protection at faith sites.

“At a time of heightened concern for some communities, it is vital that we step up our support,” Jarvis added. “Project Servator has demonstrated effectiveness in preventing criminals and terrorists through unpredictable, highly visible patrols that vary in timing and location, deterring those planning harm and reassurance the public.”

Project Servator employs specialist officers trained to identify suspects involved in serious crimes. The Home Office noted that past deployments have included both uniformed and plain-clothed personnel, resulting in arrests and the confiscation of drugs and weapons.

The new initiative expands on an existing commitment of £73.4 million for protective security at Jewish, Muslim, and other faith sites for the 2026-27 period. It will initially concentrate on strengthening policing within local communities, with particular emphasis on faith groups in London and Manchester.

Greater Manchester Police Inspector Chris Hadfield stated that the additional funding reinforces the force’s dedication to Project Servator and enables further disruption of criminal activities. Meanwhile, Met Police Cdr Andy Featherstone reiterated the stance that hate crimes, regardless of type, have no place in communities and that all reports are taken seriously.

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