Key facts
- Rabbi Daniel Walker of Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Manchester says the Jewish community feels less safe now than immediately after a 2025 synagogue attack.
- He cited rising antisemitism and a lack of action on societal issues as reasons for increased vulnerability.
- The attack on Yom Kippur 2025 resulted in two deaths and three injuries.
- Violent hate crimes targeting Jewish people in England and Wales have increased by nearly two-thirds since 2022.
- A memorial service is planned, with significant police security measures in place.
Rabbi Daniel Walker of the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Manchester has stated that the Jewish community feels more vulnerable now than immediately after the 2025 synagogue attack, which claimed the lives of Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby. Speaking ahead of a memorial service, Rabbi Walker cited rising antisemitism and a perceived lack of action to address underlying societal issues as contributing factors to this heightened sense of insecurity.
The attack occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Since then, violent hate crimes targeting Jewish people across England and Wales have increased by nearly two-thirds compared to 2022, according to a BBC Freedom of Information request. The congregation's difficulties have been compounded by attacks elsewhere, leading Rabbi Walker to express concern that "something has gone seriously wrong in our society."
Security guard Bernard Agyemang, who suffered severe injuries during the attack, including multiple fractures and a suspected brain injury, continues to grapple with the physical and emotional trauma. He condemned the "hatred and violence" and emphasized the importance of community support and remembrance.
The memorial service, scheduled to coincide with the religious anniversary of the attack, aims to publicly commemorate the victims and survivors and to call for societal change. It will be held with a significant police operation, comparable to those for major sporting or music events. Greater Manchester Police have stated their increased resources are intended to provide visibility and security, ensuring the Jewish community can observe their religious period without fear.
Data from the BBC's FOI request also revealed that antisemitic criminal damage and arson offenses have nearly doubled since 2022. In Manchester specifically, antisemitic hate crimes recorded in the first seven months of 2026 were only slightly fewer than the total for the entirety of 2025.