West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) and other emergency services have withdrawn from the Birmingham Pride parade following legal advice concerning participation in uniform. This decision arises amid concerns over political impartiality and follows a recent court ruling against Northumbria Police for allowing uniformed attendance at Newcastle Pride.
In a 2025 Judicial Review, Northumbria Police was found to have acted unlawfully after permitting officers in uniform to join Newcastle Pride in 2024. The court ruled that such participation breached the duty of political neutrality expected of public services.
Based on this ruling, WMAS, alongside West Midlands Police and Fire services, has decided to withdraw uniformed presence from Birmingham Pride. The ambulance service confirmed that identifiable staff cannot attend in a professional capacity without risking illegality.
A WMAS spokesperson emphasised the service’s ongoing support for its LGBTQ+ employees, highlighting the active ‘Proud Network’ within the organisation. They also expressed commitment to backing staff participation in other events that comply with public sector equality duties.
WMAS has informed Birmingham Pride organisers about their decision and its legal basis. The service will continue to review the situation for future events and maintain compliance with legal and equality obligations.
Originally published by UKNIP.
