Muslim families across London have raised alarm over what community leaders describe as a noticeable increase in hostility, particularly targeting women and children on public transport.
According to British Muslim Trust (BMT), there has been a growing number of complaints involving verbal abuse, intimidation, and harassment directed at Muslim passengers, especially those visibly identifiable by religious dress.
Community Leaders Highlight Shift in Public Climate
Akeela Ahmed, Chief Executive of the British Muslim Trust, expressed concern that the current atmosphere feels markedly different from previous years. She noted that many Muslim women and young people now feel uneasy traveling alone, particularly after dark.
Families, she explained, are increasingly worried about their children commuting to and from school — fears that older generations did not experience to the same extent while growing up in the capital.
Ahmed pointed to what she described as a broader change in tone, both online and offline. Social media hostility appears to have spilled into public spaces, with some individuals seemingly more emboldened to direct abuse openly.
Impact of Recent Public Disorder
The concerns intensified following unrest linked to the Southport murders last year. Community advocates say the riots created an environment where some felt empowered to express extremist views more openly.
Ahmed warned that such events may have unintentionally normalized aggressive rhetoric aimed at Muslims, migrants, and ethnic minorities. She stressed that this shift has not subsided and continues to affect daily life for many families.
Hate Crime Figures Show Increase
Official data indicates that hate crime remains a persistent issue across England and Wales. Government figures show 115,990 hate crime offences recorded in the year ending March 2025 — representing a two percent rise compared to the previous year.
The data, published by the Home Office, also revealed that religious hate crimes targeting Muslims rose by 19 percent over the same period.
Statistics from the Metropolitan Police were not included in the latest national total due to changes in crime recording procedures. However, community organisations report that incidents in London reflect the broader national trend.
Ramadan and Community Reassurance
With Ramadan currently underway, the British Muslim Trust says it is prioritising accessibility and reassurance for affected communities.
Ahmed stated that BMT is working to ensure victims of anti-Muslim hate know where to seek support. The organisation aims to serve as a trusted reporting channel and a bridge between affected individuals and law enforcement agencies.
The Trust was officially launched earlier this month as a government-backed body tasked with monitoring anti-Muslim hatred and Islamophobia across the UK. Its core mission includes data collection, victim support, and policy advocacy.
Concerns Over Divisive Campaigns
Community representatives have also raised concerns about certain public campaigns presented under the banner of patriotism. Ahmed suggested that some of these initiatives have been associated with far-right activism and risk deepening social divisions rather than fostering unity.
She emphasised that London remains one of the world’s most diverse cities, but acknowledged that tensions in certain pockets are impacting how safe Muslim residents feel in public spaces.
Political and Police Response
At the Trust’s launch event, Sadiq Khan spoke about his own experiences of discrimination while growing up in London. He described the current climate as deeply troubling for many Muslim residents and warned against attempts by extremist groups to undermine social progress.
Khan highlighted the impact of online abuse, vandalism targeting Muslim-owned businesses, and incidents where individuals have been told to “go back home” despite being born and raised in the UK.
Also present was Mark Rowley, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, who urged anyone experiencing threats based on race or religion to report incidents immediately.
He stressed that even if an event does not meet the legal threshold of a crime, police need awareness of rising tensions in specific areas in order to respond effectively and prevent escalation.
A Call for Vigilance and Unity
Community leaders say the path forward requires coordinated action — from law enforcement, policymakers, and civil society — to ensure London remains safe and inclusive for all residents.
The British Muslim Trust continues to encourage individuals to report incidents and seek support, particularly during Ramadan, a period traditionally associated with reflection, unity, and increased community engagement.
As London grapples with evolving social challenges, Muslim families say reassurance, accountability, and visible action will be key to restoring confidence in their everyday safety.
