According to a study conducted by the UK-based think tank Equi, the Muslim community in the United Kingdom donated an average of £2.2 billion during the 2023–2024 period—four times the national average and more than ten times the average donation level of high-income groups—earning the distinction of being “the most generous community in the country.”
In its report titled “Building Britain: The Contribution of British Muslims to Society,” Equi examined the charitable activities of Muslims in the UK, the areas in which the funds raised are used, and the challenges faced. Donating at a level four times the national average and more than ten times that of high-income groups, the Muslim community generated a fund of £2.2 billion (approximately 127.4 billion Turkish lira) during the 2023–2024 period. In this respect, British Muslims—the country’s most generous community—carried out significant humanitarian activities both domestically and internationally.
Young People Focused on Domestic Poverty
According to the report, young Muslims preferred to direct their donations toward domestic issues such as homelessness, poverty, and children, rather than international aid efforts. Donations by British Muslims also played a crucial role in filling gaps where state services were insufficient. Many organizations supported by Muslim donations operated in areas beyond the reach of the state, providing housing, medical assistance, food, and cash aid.
Savings for the State and Local Authorities
The report notes that, for example, the National Zakat Foundation (NZF) has assisted 21,000 people since 2011, distributing more than £25 million (approximately 1.5 billion Turkish lira) in aid. Islamic Relief UK allocated £5 million in grants to individuals and organizations in need. Its assistance to migrants and refugees also helped reduce the burden on the state. Thanks to Muslim charitable donations, local authorities saved £28.8 million (approximately 1.7 billion Turkish lira), while every £1 donated helped the state save £73.
They Do Not Receive the Recognition They Deserve
Despite all this, Muslim charitable organizations in the UK do not receive sufficient institutional cooperation or recognition. Their activities are often classified as religious services rather than social policy work. Subjected to disproportionate oversight, these charities are also perceived as untrustworthy in the public eye. Prevented from advertising, facing bank account closures on various grounds, and struggling to obtain support from funders, Muslim charities are calling for the institutionalization of cooperation between the government and Muslim civil society organizations.
London – AA
Editing: Erhan Akkaya
AA