Mayor admits hate crimes in the capital remain ‘far too high’, while stressing the need to help Londoners ‘think critically’ in face of online extremism
The Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, has announced a significant new funding package to strengthen efforts in tackling hate crimes and radicalisation across the capital. An additional £875,000 is being injected into the city’s Shared Endeavour Fund, a key initiative aimed at combating the spread of extremist ideologies and supporting vulnerable individuals.
The move comes amid increasing concerns about the influence of online misinformation and growing community tensions, particularly in the wake of last year’s tragic riots in Southport, which were fuelled by conspiracy theories and hate-filled rhetoric circulating on social media.
“False information spread like wildfire online, with devastating consequences,” Sir Sadiq remarked. “What happened in Southport was a chilling reminder of what can unfold when hatred goes unchecked. Here in London, we stand united against all forms of hate.”
The mayor acknowledged that while hate crime figures have fallen slightly over the past year, with just over 21,200 incidents reported, levels remain “far too high”, especially regarding antisemitism, Islamophobia, and racism. These offences have left deep scars in Jewish, Muslim and minority communities across London.
This latest funding is expected to support around 20 community projects, reaching an estimated 50,000 Londoners through educational workshops, outreach programmes and support networks. Past recipients of the Shared Endeavour Fund include Anne Frank Trust UK and Protection Approaches, both of which focus on tackling prejudice and identity-based violence.
The educational element of the fund has become increasingly important in light of recent international conflicts. Initiatives have been introduced to foster understanding and address tensions stemming from the ongoing crisis in Israel and Gaza, which the mayor said has been “misused by some bad actors to promote division”.
Sarah Nuzum, acting co-CEO at Anne Frank Trust UK, praised the renewed commitment from City Hall. “Thanks to the fund, we reached nearly 2,700 young people across London with workshops that challenge antisemitism, Islamophobia and all forms of hate,” she said. “These sessions empower young people to think critically and stand up to prejudice. We are proud to be part of this city-wide effort.”
The broader investment is part of a record £15.9 million pledged by Sadiq Khan during his mayoralty to address hate crime — the largest such commitment made by any London mayor to date.
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“We want a London where everyone feels safe and is safe,” Khan added. “Our diversity is our greatest strength, and those who seek to divide us must not succeed. This new funding will help build resilience, stop the spread of hate, and ensure vulnerable young Londoners are protected from harmful ideologies online.”
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, also highlighted the growing risks posed by online radicalisation, especially among younger demographics.
“There has been a marked rise in the number of young people being influenced by extremist content online,” he said. “We welcome any initiative that supports prevention and early intervention, and we continue to work closely with the mayor’s office, education providers and community groups to challenge hate in all its forms.”
As part of the funding, organisations will be tasked with running projects that encourage open dialogue, critical thinking, and the development of counter-narratives to harmful ideologies. The hope is that, over time, such efforts will create more cohesive communities, reduce tensions, and empower Londoners to reject hate wherever they encounter it.
Street-level support, media literacy, and school-based programmes will all play a role in the expanded initiative, which aims to ensure London remains a place of safety, tolerance and opportunity for all.
