Birmingham imam honoured by Queen for feeding the homeless and vulnerable during COVID lockdown

A Birmingham imam who helped to feed homeless people, refugees and victims of domestic abuse during the COVID-19 lockdown has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday honours list.

Muhammad Asad’s award was announced by Buckingham Palace on Thursday 2 June as Platinum Jubilee celebrations commenced around the country.

Mohammad Asad, who is the lead imam at Birmingham Central Mosque and also a volunteer chaplain with West Midlands Police, was given the award for his charity and community work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr Asad’s tireless and selfless work has been praised and his positive contribution has made a difference to the lives of people who he has helped over the last few years when the COVID-19 pandemic raged through the city.

During lockdown Mr Asad led a team of volunteers who were feeding homeless people, refugees and domestic abuse survivors.

He also organised food parcels for people who had to self-isolate and welfare packs for NHS heroes at local hospitals in the West Midlands.

Mr Asad also offered up time to work with West Midlands Police as a volunteer chaplain.

A spokesperson for West Midlands Police explained the role played by Mr Asad as a chaplain: “Chaplains are there to support officers and staff of all faiths and none.

“They’re a friendly face and someone we can talk to about anything – that’s really important for the trauma our people experience when responding to incidents. They are an important part of our overall care package.”

Chief Constable Sir David Thompson, added: “I’m really pleased for Mohammad. His work during lockdown was so important.

“This MBE is a great honour for a man who is changing people’s lives everyday. That includes the real difference he is making to the lives of our officers and staff through his chaplaincy work here at West Midlands Police.”