During the annual dinner of the Community Security Trust (CST) on February 28th, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak declared a commitment to allocate over £70 million to the organization over the next four years through the Jewish Community Protective Security Grant. This grant aims to enhance security measures at various Jewish facilities nationwide, including schools, synagogues, and other community buildings. The £54 million announced is the largest single financial commitment by any government to safeguard Jewish communities. This funding supplements the existing £18 million for 2024 to 2025, ensuring CST's funding until 2028.

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The financial support will be utilized for security enhancements, such as security personnel, CCTV, and alarm systems, at Jewish educational sites, community centers, and synagogues. The government's assurance of this funding for the next four years seeks to provide a sense of security and certainty to Jewish communities amid a rise in antisemitic incidents.

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A recent CST report highlighted a record 4,103 antisemitic incidents in the UK in 2023, marking a 147% increase compared to 2022. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, speaking at the dinner, condemned the prejudice and racism observed in recent months and pledged to combat antisemitism vigorously. Home Secretary James Cleverly emphasized the need for Jewish individuals to feel safe in their daily lives, and Security Minister Tom Tugendhat underscored the government's commitment to taking substantial action against antisemitism.

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In response to the rise in antisemitic incidents, an additional £3 million was provided in October 2023, raising the annual funding for CST to £18 million. This extra funding supported over 480 Jewish community locations, including schools and synagogues, enabling them to enhance security measures. Furthermore, the government has allocated £31 million to protect democratic processes and institutions in the face of growing threats.

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The government also expressed condemnation for the reported increase in anti-Muslim hatred and allocated £4.9 million in October for protective security at mosques and Muslim faith schools. This funding, totaling £29.4 million for 2023 to 2024, will be maintained in 2024 to 2025. The Protective Security for Mosques Scheme provides physical security measures to mosques and associated Muslim faith community centers, including CCTV, intruder alarms, and secure perimeter fencing.

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