Shocking Exclusion: No Terror Attack Funds for Jewish Groups Sparks Outrage

Salford Council is facing significant criticism for its decision regarding the allocation of £600,000 in funding for community cohesion projects, which were initiated in response to a deadly antisemitic terrorist attack at Heaton Park Synagogue. Despite the funds being part of a larger £2 million grant from the Home Office specifically for long-term recovery following the attack last September – an incident that tragically claimed the lives of Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby during Yom Kippur – none of the allocated money has been directly channeled to any Jewish organizations.

According to a council report approved on September 22, the purpose of this funding is to support projects aimed at challenging 'direct and indirect antisemitic and racist rhetoric' and enhancing overall community cohesion. While the funds are earmarked for various charity and community organizations, the exclusion of Jewish groups has ignited strong disapproval from local councillors and members of Shomrim, a local Jewish neighbourhood safety team.

Councillor Andrew Walters, who represents the Kersal & Broughton Park ward with its substantial Orthodox Jewish population, voiced his profound disappointment. He stated, “I am disappointed that not a single penny of the £600,000 allocation has been directly allocated to Shomrim or to a Jewish community organisation.” Councillor Walters highlighted that the funding was provided in the wake of a horrific antisemitic terrorist attack and that the Council’s own recovery plan explicitly aimed to support Jewish communities in rebuilding confidence and resilience. He argued that it is reasonable to expect direct support for the targeted Jewish community in such circumstances, even while acknowledging the merit of other projects within the program.

Meir Factor, the Executive Director of Shomrim, a voluntary safety patrol that collaborates with Greater Manchester Police (GMP), also expressed surprise and disappointment at the lack of consultation with his organization. Factor emphasized Shomrim's established role as a leading entity in community cohesion and underscored the critical importance of their work, especially in light of recent news concerning a thwarted antisemitic attack. He stressed that building trust, strengthening community relationships, and fostering safe, connected environments are vital for preventing division and promoting resilience.

The controversy surrounding the funding coincided with breaking news about an intercepted antisemitic attack planned for Manchester city centre. This operation, a joint effort between the London Metropolitan Police and GMP, led to two arrests in the Northern Quarter and subsequent searches at a hostel in Salford, as part of an ongoing counter-terrorism investigation. This incident further amplified the urgency and relevance of targeted community support.

In response to the mounting criticism, a spokesperson for Salford City Council affirmed its recognition of the deep impact the Heaton Park Synagogue attack had on Jewish communities, including residents of Salford. The council reiterated its solidarity with the Jewish community, stating this commitment guides its approach to community work across Salford. They clarified that the £600,000 is part of a broader government funding initiative designed to enhance community safety and resilience, combat hatred and discrimination, support young people, and unite communities.

The spokesperson maintained that the funding for projects and activities is intended to benefit all communities across Salford, including its Jewish communities, with the goal of improving overall cohesion and challenging all forms of hate. Acknowledging the concerns raised, the council pledged to continue engaging with its Jewish communities to ensure their experiences and priorities are fully reflected in the wider community projects undertaken.