Lib Dems demand action as LGBTQ+ safety concerns go unheard in Lambeth

At 8.3 percent, Lambeth is home to the highest proportion of LGBTQ+ residents in London, with the London average being 4.2 percent. Two attacks - one at the Two Brewers in Clapham and another at a bus stop in Brixton - have sent shockwaves through the local LGBTQ+ community, yet no arrests have been made.  

The Lib Dems are severely disappointed that the Council hasn’t reached out sufficiently to LGBTQ+ residents and local groups, including Council Opposition parties. They say the Council is not taking a strong enough proactive approach which is needed and that they must listen to the lived experience, concerns, and solutions of the community. 

In their letter, they say “our communities deserve to know that their concerns are being heard and that tangible efforts are underway to improve their safety and well-being.”  

Commenting, the Liberal Democrats’ candidate for the upcoming Vauxhall Ward by-election on October 5th, Fareed Alderechi, said:  

“I moved here seven years ago confident that I could be openly gay here myself in Vauxhall. By and large, that has remained true; with an LGBTQ+ community that is vibrant and looks after one another.  

“But these attacks ignite a growing feeling that our community is under attack more generally. We have a Conservative government inflaming division and a Labour Council with no plan about how to tackle the issue. We have the right to feel safe, and we deserve better.”  

The Lib Dem letter seeks answers regarding Lambeth Council’s response to the August homophobic attacks. They enquire about extra patrols conducted by Public Protection Officers, what steps the Council took following the My LGBTQ+ Lambeth Survey in 2022, and collaborations with local LGBTQ+ charities and businesses to address issues which are specific to them.  

Cllr Donna Harris, Leader of the Lambeth Liberal Democrat Group, said:  

“Lambeth Labour have offered nothing more than lip service following these crimes. We’re extremely worried that attackers will be emboldened to commit more hate crimes if further action isn’t taken. 

“1 in 12 residents in Lambeth identify as LGBTQ+ and this current situation must be treated as a public safety emergency. The Council must give the community a voice, listen to their concerns, reflect on their proposals, and take concrete actions to make them feel safe again in this borough.”