Statement on attacks at Stratford-upon-Avon College

We have become aware of issues at Stratford-upon-Avon College where multiple students who are LGBT+ are being targeted with intense bullying. This includes a trans woman receiving verbal abuse and being physically attacked right outside the college. Their boyfriend was also attacked, sustained a head injury, and there were knife threats too.

It’s alleged that the college is not doing anything to deal with the problem and support LGBT+ students (particularly trans students). Many LGBT+ students are now scared to go to college.

This is unacceptable. We will be contacting the college as a matter of urgency to request a meeting to discuss the issue and ask them to commit to robust actions to deal with the problem and make the college a safe place for LGBT+ students.

Everyone has a right to access education without being subjected to acts of hate for being who they are. We have been saying for years that Stratford has a problem that needs to be tackled. Not just at the college as described above. But also at schools, in communities, and in the street. This stuff is happening. When are the schools, colleges and councils going to wake up and do something about it?

If you are a student at the college who has been affected by what’s been happening, please reach out to us for support.

• Under 18s – We have a weekly youth group on Monday evenings.
• Over 18s – We have a monthly coffee morning on the second Saturday of each month.
• All ages – We have an LGBT+ counselling service to provide emotional, therapeutic support.

Email [email protected] or call/text/Whatsapp 07580532659. We are here for you.