Report reveals the impact of COVID-19 on UK Muslims
A survey has shed light on the devastating financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the UK Muslim community. Muslim Census, who carried out the research, surveyed over 1000 Muslims from up and down the country to better understand the scale of the challenges being placed on Muslims specifically during this historic period of need.
National Zakat Foundation (NZF) has been inundated with record numbers of applications for Zakat from Muslims in need since the pandemic began. The disproportionate effect of COVID-19 on those from Muslim backgrounds has been widely reported but until now there has been limited statistical data available to fully grasp the scale of the situation nationally.
Key findings:
► Job losses among Muslims have been six times greater compared to the rest of the population since the pandemic began
► 35% of working Muslims are in key worker roles – 13% higher than the UK average
► 42% of Muslims have used their savings to cover expenses due to the pandemic
Read the report here
Zakat – a source of support being missed?
Despite the massive financial strain being put on UK Muslims, only 7% of those surveyed felt they were eligible for Zakat at any point during the crisis. Even among those who stated they were living in poverty, only 15% believed they would be eligible to receive Zakat.
At NZF we continue to see the power of Zakat to help Muslims overcome issues of poverty, right here in the UK. But it’s clear that more needs to be done so we can reach more people who are eligible for Zakat across the country.
What you can do to help?
✓ Give Zakat here – help your brothers and sisters affected by this crisis right on your doorstep by giving Zakat through NZF: https://nzf.org.uk/pay-zakat
✓ Spread the word – if you or anyone you know is struggling and might be eligible for Zakat, let them know about the support available: https://nzf.org.uk/apply-for-zakat
The findings are a reminder of just how vital your Zakat is, right here where you live. Read the report here. Please do share the findings widely, so the community gains a better understanding of the kind of challenges we need to overcome together.
