West Midlands Police has stated its intention to 'police without fear or favour' at Birmingham Pride this week, following the announcement that emergency services have withdrawn from participating in the annual event.
Emergency Services Withdraw from Parade
Earlier this week, West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed it had withdrawn from the Birmingham Pride parade, alongside police and fire services, citing legal advice. The decision has prompted West Midlands Police to clarify its role at the event, which is expected to attract up to 75,000 people for the parade and subsequent festival in the LGBTQ+ village.
Police Commitment to LGBTQ+ Community
West Midlands Police has reaffirmed its support for the LGBTQ+ community. A spokesperson said: 'We have staff from many different backgrounds including the LGBTQ+ community and we remain fully supportive of them. The Acting Chief Constable has met with representatives of the LGBTQ+ community and our own force network to listen and hear their experiences, accounts and views.'
The force added: 'West Midlands Police is committed to policing without fear or favour and continuing to strengthen and build positive relationships with the public to ensure they have trust and confidence in the force.'
Legal Basis for Withdrawal
In its statement, West Midlands Ambulance Service referenced a Judicial Review of Northumbria Police from last year, which found that uniformed attendance at Newcastle Pride 2024 was unlawful due to a breach of political impartiality. The Service stated: 'Based on statements from Birmingham Pride, there is a very strong likelihood that if we were to support uniformed staff members who are identifiable as WMAS staff to attend the parade in a professional capacity, this would be found to be unlawful.'
The Ambulance Service also noted its support for LGBTQ+ staff through its internal 'Proud Network' and said it would keep the decision under review for future events.
West Midlands Police will maintain a policing operation at the event, ensuring public safety while upholding its duty of impartiality.
