Working together with communities to ensure a safe Ramadan for all

Over the past few months – working with local businesses, community groups, faith leaders and volunteers – a partnership approach has been developed to help address concerns around anti-social behaviour, illegal street trading, community safety, noise and litter issues.

Last year a series of incidents disrupted Ramadan, Chaand Raat and Eid celebrations in the Coventry Road, Alum Rock Road and Ladypool Road areas of Sparkbrook.

Throughout Ramadan officers from Trading Standards, Community Safety, Environmental Health, Licensing and Parking teams will be joining police colleagues on dedicated patrols in these areas to tackle illegal trading, parking problems and concerns raised by local residents..

Cllr Nicky Brennan, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, said: “Ramadan is a deeply sacred time for Muslim communities across the city – a holy month of fasting and prayer in the run up to Eid-ul-Fitr.

“Birmingham City Council continues to work in partnership with police colleagues and the local community to ensure residents and worshippers across the city can observe Ramadan in peace and safety.

“To everyone marking this sacred month, I wish you, your families, friends and loved ones a peaceful and healthy Ramadan.”

Chief Inspector Haroon Chughtai from West Midlands Police, said: “Both West Midlands Police and Birmingham City Council want people observing the holy month of Ramadan to be able to do so peacefully and respectfully and without a minority spoiling it for the rest.

“Our priority is always to keep families, friends and communities safe. We want the community to be able to come together to mark Ramadan in a safe environment.

“Anti-social behaviour and causing harm and distress to others will not be tolerated and we will take action against those who come to our city to cause trouble.

“This year will feel different, but we hope the community feel reassured by our increased presence.”