Shabana has written to the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster, after reported attacks on the LGBT+ community in Birmingham.

A recent uptick in crimes reported in Birmingham’s Gay Village has prompted concerns amongst the LGBT+ community.

An unprovoked attack outside Missing Bar this month led to a man needing reconstructive surgery. Earlier this year three men were arrested after a violent attack on a gay couple that required them to seek hospital treatment.

In her letter, Shabana asks the Police and Crime Commissioner what steps he intends to take to reassure the community.

You can read the letter in full below.

Letter to the Police and Crime Commissioner

Dear Mr Foster

RE: Rise in attacks on Birmingham’s LGBT+ community

I was concerned to read of a recent attack carried out on a member of Birmingham’s LGBT+ Community last week.

A man suffered a significant injury as a result of this attack and I was disappointed to read that it took three days for West Midlands Police to follow up with him and take a statement, despite how quickly the incident was reported.

Unfortunately, this does not appear to be an isolated incident. There have been a spate of similar attacks this year. One such incident, which took place in August 2021 and made national news, involved two men being attacked with bottles outside the Missing Bar.

They endured homophobic abuse and had to receive treatment in hospital. Whilst I am pleased that one arrest has been made in the case, I would be grateful if you could inform me how many crimes have been reported, which related to homophobic or anti-LGBT hate crimes or where it was referenced in the victim’s personal statement, over the past twelve months?

I would also appreciate it if you could outline what action is being taken by yourself and the Chief Constable to reassure members of the LGBT+ community and ensure those in Birmingham Ladywood feel safe.

This increase in attacks on Birmingham’s LGBT+ community is unacceptable and must be addressed swiftly. We must ensure all victims are supported and make it clear that there is no space for this horrific treatment of LGBT+ people in our city.

Yours sincerely

Shabana Mahmood MP

Birmingham Ladywood