Funding for councils to fight antisemitism

The government has announced a further £1 million for Jewish communities across England to tackle antisemitism and strengthen community cohesion.

An immediate £500,000 will be given to Barnet Council, as a result of recent antisemitic incidents in the area and the large number of Jewish residents there.

The funding will expand MHCLG’s Common Ground programme to power local efforts to counter antisemitism, support safer communities and respond to rising tensions in those towns and cities where our Jewish communities are most fearful and concerned.

The funding will help local people take rapid, visible action, ranging from community safety work and targeted youth and schools initiatives, to interfaith projects and programmes to challenge antisemitic narratives or hate crime.

This funding is in addition to the £25 million announced last week to boost police patrols, specialist officers, and protective security for Jewish communities.

Secretary of State for Housing and Communities said: "The horrific rise of antisemitism and anti-Jewish hatred in Britain and across the world is intolerable. I will not rest until Britain is a place where every Jewish person can live openly, safely and proudly.

"Our Common Ground programme has already awarded millions of pounds into communities across the country, and today’s expansion of that programme builds on our commitment to tackle hate crime, promote integration and support communities most at risk.

"While we know there is more to do, we believe that quickly channelling government funding directly to the communities and places facing the greatest risks today will help local partners to take early, practical action to keep people safe, strengthen communities and stand up to hate."