As local MP for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner, I have written to places of worship in the local community, setting out details of the Government’s £3.2 million Places of Worship Protective Security Fund.

The fund, which was established in 2016, is now open for the latest round of applications. It helps places of worship such as churches, mosques, gurdwaras, temples and associated faith community centres with funding to improve physical security. This can include more secure gates, locks, alarms and CCTV in order to deter and prevent hate crime attacks.

The fund was simplified and expanded following the terrorist attack in Christchurch, New Zealand, last year, with the total funding doubled to £3.2 million. Since its introduction more than 180 grants have been awarded helping 76 churches, 75 mosques, 23 gurdwaras and nine Hindu temples.

In my letter, I have thanked local faith leaders for all they have done to support the local community throughout the coronavirus outbreak.

Everybody in Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner has the right to worship without fear of attack or hateful discrimination. If any place of worship in our community feels at risk from hate crimes or attack, I would urge them to apply for this important funding to improve security measures. It is vital that congregations feel safe and protected.

During this global pandemic, personal faith has been a source of comfort and strength for so many people. As we start to see places of worship reopen, the Government is determined to keep these places, which give so much back to our community, safe.

Further information on the funding can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/places-of-worship-security-funding-scheme