Anjumin Ahmed

Staying Safe, Staying Strong: A Message to Muslim Women in the UK

11 October 2025

As-salamu'alaykum my dear sisters,


I know many of us in the UK have been feeling unsettled in recent weeks. Across the nation we've seen anti-immigration protests take a worrying turn, leaving Muslim women - especially those of us who are visibly Muslim, feeling exposed and unsure. I want to remind you first: you are not alone in this. So many of your sisters are experiencing the same anxieties, and our faith teaches us to support and uplift one another through times of trial.


In doing so, we must also remember that taking precautions is not a sign of fear, but of strength and wisdom. Being cautious does not make you weak – it makes you wise.


Think of it as the protective instincts of an older sister who urges you to be mindful of your surroundings, to seek knowledge, and to stay connected to both your community and your creator. Your safety, both physical and emotional, matters. Islam teaches us to tie our camel and then place our trust in Allah - meaning we take the practical steps but also remember that our strength is always rooted in Him.



In this article, we want to share some reflections, practical steps and spiritual reminders to help you navigate this climate with strength, faith, and clarity.


You're Not Alone

It’s easy to feel isolated and think 'Why me?' when going through hardship. But Allah reminds us:


"And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give glad tidings to the patient."
(Qur’an 2:155)


Fear and vulnerability are tests many Muslims have gone through before us. You are not alone. Remember during the Prophet’s era, when he (SAW) and his companions were mocked, violently attacked with stones, boycotted, and driven from their homes for their faith. This is not to say that it is acceptable to live in fear. It isn’t. The cruelty and ignorance of others have no place in a civilised society. But in a way, it brings a quiet sense of connection to know that we are experiencing, in our own time, what the Prophet (SAW) and his companions once faced for practicing Islam.


They held firm to their faith despite humiliation and violence, refusing to let fear dictate how they lived. You, too, carry that same strength within you.



Like them, seek strength in togetherness. Stay close to your community by reaching out to friends and sharing your concerns instead of carrying them alone, helping to break the sense of isolation.


Be Vigilant but Balanced

Fear is not weakness. Sometimes feeling scared is Allah protecting you through heightened awareness. It is important to take precautions, but don’t let fear consume you. We walk with dignity because Allah is with us.


Practical Safety Steps:


• Be aware of your surroundings — noticing when something feels “off” is not paranoia; it’s a protective instinct Allah placed within us.


• Share your location with a trusted friend or family member when travelling. If you’re able to travel with a mahram in places which are unfamiliar to you and known to be an area that is rough, try to do so. If not, keep to the main roads and travel during busy periods. 


• Carry a personal alarm or whistle.



• If you wear hijab or visible Muslim clothing, aim to walk in well-lit, public areas when alone.


• Trust your gut — if you feel uncomfortable, act on it without hesitation.


Spiritual Protection:


Just as we protect ourselves physically, we should also strengthen our spiritual protection through the remembrance of Allah.


"Say, 'Nothing will happen to us except what Allah has decreed for us; He is our Protector.' And upon Allah let the believers rely."
(Qur'an 9:51)


If Allah wills no harm upon you, then no force in this world can bring it — and if He allows a test to reach you, it comes only with His wisdom and mercy. Remember that Allah is Al-Hafīz — the Protector — and nothing escapes His knowledge or care. Place your trust in Him fully, knowing that no amount of hatred, cruelty, can outweigh the protection of the One who made you.


The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever recites Ayat al-Kursi at night, Allah will appoint a protector over him and no devil will approach him until morning.” (Bukhari)


The last two verses of Surah al-Baqarah (2:285–286) serve as a shield for the believer and should be recited before going to sleep.


Make it a daily habit to read the morning and evening adhkār, found in Hisnul Muslim (Fortress of the Muslim), as these simple acts of remembrance brings sukoon to both the mind and the heart.



Know Your Rights

As Muslims living in the UK, it’s important to know that you are protected under the law.


Hate crime and discrimination are illegal. If you are harassed, threatened, or attacked, you can report it to the police (by calling 999 in emergencies or 101 for non-emergencies).


You can also report Islamophobic incidents through:


  • CAGE International- helpline: 030003022


  • Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) – who provide advice, advocacy, and can direct you to further support

   

  • Tell MAMA – Report Islamophobic hate crimes: 0800 456 1226


  • If you are a student, your university or college will also have safeguarding and wellbeing officers you can turn to.


We already know, on the ground level, the abuse and hostility our communities face — but unless it’s reported, it often goes unseen by those in power. Reporting turns lived experience into evidence, and evidence drives change. It allows authorities and support organisations to take action, increase protection, and push for real change 


Remember: knowing your rights isn’t just empowering — it’s a form of protection for yourself and your community.


If you’ve experienced harassment or hate there are organisations across the UK that are ready to listen and help you find the right kind of support. Whether you need someone to talk to, advice on what to do next or help reporting an incident, the following services can offer assistance:


  •  Muslim Women’s Network UK – A confidential helpline offering emotional support, advice, and guidance specifically for Muslim women. Call 0800 999 5786.


  • Samaritans – Available 24/7 for anyone who needs to talk. While not a Muslim-specific service, their volunteers offer compassionate, non-judgemental listening. Call 116 123.



  • Victim Support – Provides free, confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it’s been reported. Call 0808 1689 111.


Remember, Allah never leaves His servants unaided


“Indeed, My servant – you will not have authority over them. And sufficient is your Lord as Disposer of affairs.”
(Qur’an 17:65)


So protect yourself through du‘ā, being vigilant and through the support of those around you. You are never truly alone — Allah’s protection and care are constant, even when everything around you feel uncertain. In moments of fear, turn to Him. He hears every whisper of your heart. Remember that every step you take with faith is seen, every hardship endured with patience is rewarded, and every prayer made in sincerity brings you closer to peace.


With love and duas, Your Muslimah family

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