The British Muslim Trust (BMT) officially launched this week, unveiling a government-backed national helpline to monitor and respond to anti-Muslim hate across the UK.
Appointed last summer to track anti-Muslim incidents, the organisation will collect and record data on Islamophobia while offering support to those affected, including counselling and guidance on legal options.
The new reporting service includes a dedicated helpline, WhatsApp contact, webchat and email address.
High-profile attendees at the launch included London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley, Women and Equalities Committee chair Sarah Owen, Faith and Communities Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh, professional rugby player Zainab Alema and singer Yusuf Islam.
Speaking at the event, Sir Sadiq reflected on the racism he experienced growing up in London in the 1970s, warning that “extremists are trying to turn back the clock on the progress we’ve made.”
BMT said on X: “We were truly humbled to welcome @MayorofLondon to the Official Launch of the British Muslim Trust, alongside so many inspiring speakers and guests.”
It added: “Accurate data on the lived experiences of British Muslims is what will drive policy change. This evening was a celebration of resilience, talent, and collaboration. We are proud to stand with leaders like the Mayor of London to build a safer, more inclusive society.”
Sir Khan said it was an honour to speak at the launch: “Proud of their faith and proud of the place they call home, London’s Muslim communities have strengthened the social fabric of our communities. The BMT will help ensure those stories are heard and protected.”
Met Police chief urges Muslim to report hate incidents.
Fahnbulleh reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling anti-Muslim hatred, saying the Trust had been given the vital responsibility of accurately monitoring incidents nationwide.
Meanwhile, Sir Mark Rowley urged Londoners to report hate incidents, even if they are unsure whether a criminal offence has been committed.
The Metropolitan Police previously announced it would no longer investigate incidents that do not meet the criminal threshold, even if they are perceived to be motivated by hostility towards characteristics such as race, religion or gender.
It’s a move that caused some confusion among the Muslim community.
Sir Mark said he wanted to concentrate his “limited resources on the things Parliament says are illegal”.
When asked on stage how he would respond to a victim confused about the distinction, he said: “If someone feels threatened because of their race or religion they should call us. We will work out whether it’s a crime. In either event we need to know about it.”
“If it’s a sign of escalating tension in an area or escalating tension between neighbours, we want to know about it.”
