Aims/priorities: The scheme is part of the Government's Action Against Hate - The UK Government’s Plan for Tackling Hate Crime. It will provide protective security measures to places of worship that have been subject to, or are vulnerable to a hate crime attack. In a bid to tackle the increasing number of hate crimes directed at religious buildings, the Government is making the funding available to places of worship so that they can purchase extra security equipment. The funding can cover the costs of up to three security measures from the following list:
- CCTV (fixed cameras, not pan-tilt cameras)
- Fencing and/or railings (no more than 2.1m high)
- Manually operated pedestrian and vehicle gates
- Door hardening, locks and mail box/mail bag
- Reinforcing single glazed windows (with anti-shatter film or bars/grilles only)
- Intruder alarms including integrated smoke/heat detection
- Door entry access control (fob or keypad)
- Video intercom systems
- Lighting (building mounted)
The funding only covers the provision and installation of these security measures. It does not cover other associated costs such as licensing and planning permission, or ongoing costs such as charges for annual service, maintenance and monitoring.
Who can apply? Places of worship in England and Wales can submit a bid. The following are some examples of places of worship buildings that are eligible to apply for the funding (this is not an exhaustive list):
- Churches
- Gurdwaras
- Mosques
- Temples
- Associated faith community centres (defined as community centre run by a place of worship or near a place of worship that is faith based, and where regular worship takes place).
Grant amount: Upto £56,000.
Application process: Full details of the scheme and the online application form can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Deadline: 16 July 2021 (23:59). All measures under the scheme must be completed and delivered by 31 March 2022.
Contact information: Email: pow_sfs@esotec.co.uk
Website address: protective security funding scheme