Arrest over sexual assault claims at LGBTQ+ church

Police said they were investigating a number of sexual assaults

A man has been arrested over allegations of sexual assault at an LGBTQ+ church in Birmingham.

A number of former members of the congregation at Inclusive Gathering Birmingham (IGB) allege they were subjected to inappropriate sexual behaviour.

The Birmingham Methodist District said a five-month safeguarding investigation concluded in June, "finding no ongoing risk in relation to the original allegation".

West Midlands Police said it was investigating a number of sexual assaults, and the 49-year-old man had been bailed while inquiries continue.

One of the alleged victims said he experienced a number of "inappropriate" incidents, and being touched by the individual "made me feel uncomfortable and awkward".

They described an incident in which the individual "came towards me to say hello, and I was pinned between them and the wall. They groped my backside, tightened their grip, and walked off."

Another alleged victim described the behaviour as "inappropriate touching".

"He'd come from behind me and I felt very uncomfortable in the way that he was suddenly touching me," they said.

"I would look out for him and make sure I was facing him so he couldn't suddenly put his arms around me. I made sure he couldn't touch me."

'Swift action'

In a statement, the Birmingham Methodist District added: "A safeguarding concern was first brought to the attention of Inclusive Gathering Birmingham's leadership in late 2023.

"This was followed by further complaints to the Birmingham Methodist District as IGB's oversight body in January 2024.

"Swift action was then taken by IGB and district leaders to ensure the safety of the community.

"With risk removed, a five-month safeguarding investigation followed. However, beyond the initial concern, multiple further allegations could not be corroborated or were found to be inaccurate and therefore dismissed."

The church added IGB had not reconvened public gatherings "due to the distress and damage this situation has caused".

Matthew Lloyd, an advocate for the alleged victims, said church leaders "have refused to meet or speak with survivors".

Birmingham Methodist District said "multiple opportunities to respond were offered to the whole IGB community, and all those put forward as witnesses were specifically contacted and invited to make statements."

IGB's website describes the church as "a diverse, justice-seeking, LGBTQIA+ affirming church for all".

In a statement to the BBC, the Birmingham Methodist District said it had "supported and funded Inclusive Gathering Birmingham for seven years because we believe that LGBTQ+ people are deeply loved by God and that faith communities that celebrate the gifts, wisdom and spirituality of queer people are desperately needed".