Birmingham has recorded 634 hate crime incidents involving sexual orientation or transgender identity in 2025, as a new law granting LGBTQ+ and disabled victims the same protections as racial and religious hate crime victims receives royal assent.
The legislation, signed by King Charles III, classifies such crimes as aggravated offences, ensuring they carry heightened sentences comparable to those motivated by race or religion.
Among the 634 incidents recorded in Birmingham last year, 210 involved intentional harassment, alarm, or distress, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
Ben Kernighan, CEO of LGBTQ+ charity Galop, welcomed the change: "This long-overdue change in law is a welcome step in addressing the intensifying hate our community faces."
However, Pride director Lawrence Barton expressed ongoing concerns, telling BirminghamLive: "As a gay man in my 50s, would I feel comfortable walking up New Street holding the hand of my 66-year-old husband? No, I would not."
The development comes as Birmingham prepares to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Birmingham Pride later this month, underscoring the continued need for progress despite legal advancements.
