The Bishop of Birmingham, Dr Michael Volland, has expressed 'dismay and disappointment' over comments made by Conservative MP Robert Jenrick, who said that during a visit to Handsworth he 'didn’t see another white face' and described the area as 'close to a slum’. Speaking at a Conservative event in March, Jenrick said the district lacked integration, remarks later published by the Guardian. Dr Volland responded in an open letter, inviting Jenrick to revisit Handsworth and meet local residents dedicated to the community’s flourishing. He warned that such rhetoric risks 'stirring up division' and urged leaders to use language that unites rather than divides. The bishop highlighted positive examples of integration, including St Michael’s Church of England Primary Academy, which recently received an Outstanding Ofsted rating. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch defended Jenrick’s comments as 'factual observations’, while others - including the Prime Minister - criticised his judgment. Dr Volland reiterated the Church’s call to build understanding, mutual respect, and community cohesion across all ethnic and faith backgrounds. See

‘One of the most important issues of our time is how to integrate refugees into German society. Integration works best by involvement in everyday life - in a day-care centre or school, in learning a trade or in a place of work. Here the refugees can come into direct contact with the German language and culture and can also become familiar with the social norms and customs of our society. Integration into the job market however takes time; this might be because of lack of qualifications, or few opportunities for apprenticeships or vocational training. Many refugees remain in temporary accommodation for a long time, with no prospects for work or a more permanent place to live. The ready availability of social housing is an essential component of a successful integration plan: but a home of your own must be affordable not only for refugees but also for the low wage earners, the unemployed and pensioners. These also should not be forgotten! Much patience is often expected also from them. To ensure the keeping of peace and harmony in communities, the task of effective integration requires our constant prayer.’