A 49-year-old man has been arrested amid allegations of sexual misconduct involving former members of Inclusive Gathering Birmingham (IGB), an LGBTQ+ affirming church.
According to the BBC, Several individuals from the congregation have come forward, accusing the man of inappropriate sexual behaviour.
West Midlands Police confirmed that they are investigating multiple reports of sexual assault.
The suspect has been released on bail as inquiries continue.
In an interview with the outlet, one alleged victim described a specific encounter.
They said: “He came towards me to say hello, and I was pinned between him and the wall. He groped my backside, tightened his grip, and walked off."
Another individual shared similar concerns, describing the actions as “inappropriate touching.”
“He’d come from behind me, and I felt very uncomfortable with the way he was suddenly touching me. I made sure to face him whenever he was nearby to prevent him from putting his arms around me,” they said.
The Birmingham Methodist District, which oversees IGB, stated that a safeguarding investigation began in early 2024 after concerns were reported.
The five-month process, which concluded in June, found "no ongoing risk" connected to the initial allegation.
In a statement, the district said: "Swift action was taken by IGB and district leaders to ensure the safety of the community. However, multiple further allegations could not be corroborated or were found to be inaccurate and therefore dismissed."
The investigation has led to IGB suspending public gatherings due to the distress and reputational damage caused by the allegations.
Matthew Lloyd, an advocate for the alleged victims, criticised church leaders for their lack of engagement, stating they "have refused to meet or speak with survivors".
However, the Birmingham Methodist District countered this, asserting that "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".