A new poll conducted by Tell MAMA has revealed the profound effects of anti-Muslim hate and Islamophobia on British Muslim communities following far-right demonstrations that began in late July. The findings, collected eight weeks after the protests erupted in response to the murder of three young girls in Southport, demonstrate the following:
- 1 in 4 British Muslims reported experiencing anti-Muslim hate or Islamophobia, either online or in person, since 30 July.
- 7 in 10 felt that anti-Muslim hate had become more widespread.
- 2 in 3 perceived a heightened risk of harm to Muslim communities.
- 1 in 3 said the far-right demonstrations prompted them to consider leaving the UK.
- Nearly 4 in 10 expressed concerns about threats to their local mosque from far-right groups and extremists.
Despite these alarming statistics, the survey also highlighted some positive developments. Half of those surveyed said the protests encouraged them to be more open about their Muslim identity, often through discussions with friends and colleagues. Additionally, 6 in 10 respondents still reported feeling safe in Britain.
The findings illustrate a community navigating complex emotions, with increasing openness about identity contrasting against fears of rising hostility and threats to safety.
Tell MAMA’s director described the results as a “wake-up call” for central and local authorities. “The findings show that anti-Muslim hate and Islamophobia are having significant impacts on Britain’s Muslim communities,” the director said.
The poll also highlighted a troubling increase in hate incidents reported to Tell MAMA since late July. Victims reported being subjected to verbal abuse, physical threats, and online harassment, including calls for mosque burnings and violence against Muslims.
The survey findings have emphasised the need for a coordinated response from the government, police, and local leaders. Programs like the Places of Worship Protective Security Fund have provided some support for mosques, but concerns remain about the effectiveness and reach of such initiatives.
Tell MAMA called for “laser-like focus” from policymakers to address the causes of anti-Muslim hate and to bolster social cohesion. The organization continues to assist victims with legal, practical, and emotional support.
Speaking on the findings, the Director of Tell MAMA said: “The poll findings demonstrate that anti-Muslim hate or Islamophobia is having significant impacts on Britain’s Muslim communities.
“The findings show that much more work needs to be undertaken in re-assuring Britain’s Muslim communities and in supporting the social cohesion in our local areas. The findings should be a wake-up call for Central Government.
“In the weeks since the riots at the end of July, Tell Mama has been inundated with calls from members of the public who have been shouted at aggressively and threatened to be killed, some have been spat at and assaulted. There has also been an increase in online reports including calls to burn down mosques, calls for mass migration and calls for Muslims and migrants to be killed.
“Tell MAMA continues to support the victims of anti-Muslim hate or Islamophobia in a number of ways since 2011. We help them report incidents to Police or work with employers when incidents occur in the workplace. We are an ‘always-on’ service for those who need us both in terms of practical, legal and emotional support.
“But there must now be a laser like focus from the government on preventing the causes of anti-Muslim and Islamophobia. We must see Central Government acknowledge that much more work needs to be done in re-assuring British Muslim communities and in making real long-term commitments to challenging such hate”.
While the survey highlights ongoing challenges, it also points to the strength and resolve within Muslim communities. The increased willingness to embrace and assert their identity demonstrates a collective pushback against hate.
The findings underscore the importance of fostering a more inclusive society and addressing the underlying issues fuelling anti-Muslim sentiment. As far-right activity continues to leave its mark, British Muslims and their allies call for sustained action to ensure safety and equality for all.
