UEL research reveals crisis facing Muslim women
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Published
15 August 2025
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A new study led by the University of East London (UEL) has revealed the disproportionate impact of the cost-of-living crisis on Muslim women across the UK, uncovering deep inequalities in income, employment, safety and access to support.
The research was commissioned by Islamic Relief UK and conducted by UEL’s Dr Susannah Pickering-Saqqa, Course Leader in Sustainable Development and Social Change, and researcher Atefah Huq, who has recently graduated with a First Class degree.
The pair from the School of Childhood and Social Care surveyed 163 women using services such as food banks, domestic abuse support and community centres, alongside 37 staff and volunteers from 12 partner organisations in England and Scotland.
Findings show that more than half (51 per cent) of Muslim women surveyed live on an absolute low income - over three times the UK-wide rate for women - and only 28 per cent are in paid work compared to the national figure of 72 per cent. Women aged 45 and over are especially affected, often due to unemployment, disability or caring responsibilities.
Safety concerns are also widespread. Nearly a third (29 per cent) reported a decline in safety and security, with many citing fears heightened by recent unrest and rising anti-Muslim sentiment.
Food insecurity is another pressing issue. Almost one in three respondents had used a food bank in the past 12 months, compared with just eight per cent of low-income households nationally. However, cultural barriers, including the lack of culturally appropriate food, mean many in need still avoid food banks.
The study also highlighted that 84 per cent of beneficiaries have faced greater financial difficulties over the past year. Many described making “impossible choices” between rent, utility bills and food, while others spoke of isolation and declining mental health.
Despite these challenges, the research found that community networks and access to education can have a positive impact. Many women reported improved well-being after joining local classes and community groups.
Dr Pickering-Saqqa, Director of UEL’s Charity Sofa, said the findings underscored the urgent need for tailored policy responses. “This research shines a light on the specific, intersecting challenges faced by Muslim women during the cost-of-living crisis.
Poverty here is not simply about income - it is about safety, dignity, and the ability to participate fully in society. By working closely with community partners, we have been able to document lived experiences that are too often hidden from national debate. Addressing these issues requires not only economic support, but action to tackle the cultural and structural barriers that keep women in hardship.”
Islamic Relief UK will use the report to inform future UK policy work and food campaigns.
Shazia Arshad, of Islamic Relief UK, said, “The research shows that Muslim women are particularly vulnerable due to the disproportionate economic hardships our community faces, but also that lack of action on poverty in the country is putting them under increased risk of Islamophobic or domestic violence.”
The full report, The impact of the cost-of-living crisis on Muslim women in the UK, is available via Islamic Relief UK’s website.