Hertfordshire receives £9 million funding boost to protect Jewish community
Jonathan Ash-Edwards welcomes support amid rising antisemitism concerns
Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards has welcomed significant new funding from the Home Office aimed at safeguarding Jewish communities within the county.
Hertfordshire Constabulary will receive an additional £9 million over the next three years as part of a broader initiative supporting 11 police forces nationwide, designed to bolster protection for Jewish residents amid growing concerns over antisemitism.
With Hertfordshire housing the third-largest Jewish population in the UK, community leaders have raised alarms over rising intimidation following national incidents and unrest in north London.
The Commissioner, alongside Hertfordshire Constabulary, has engaged Jewish residents and leaders, visiting synagogues and facilitating reassurance meetings, prioritizing visible patrols and proactive security measures.
Ash-Edwards emphasized the critical nature of this funding, noting that Hertfordshire’s substantial Jewish community requires strong policing and protection resources.
Ensuring the county does not become an afterthought, the Commissioner has consistently advocated for fair allocation of resources, particularly in light of recent hate crimes affecting local communities.
Ash-Edwards pledged ongoing collaboration with police, community leaders, and partners to ensure concerns are swiftly addressed and protective actions are effectively implemented.
Residents are urged to report any hate crimes or suspicious activities promptly to enable timely police response and informed intelligence gathering.
Emergency situations should be reported via 999, while non-emergency concerns can be directed through Hertfordshire Constabulary's online platforms or by calling 101. Anonymous tips can also be shared with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.