Birmingham Jewish student accommodation ramps up security after ‘huge surge’ in antisemitism

A Jewish student accommodation is looking to increase the security of its site following a “huge surge” in antisemitism.

The accommodation, named Hillel House, has applied to build a 1.8 metre high fence and electric gates, citing “the recent huge surge in antisemitism which has arisen in university campuses” as the reason for the extra security.

The student residence in Edgbaston offers students “kosher food, religious services, holiday celebrations, and a place to meet, connect and form a sense of belonging”. It houses 36 students, and is said to be the largest Jewish student accommodation in the UK.

Speaking to the Jewish Chronicle, Ruth Jacobs, who has been the manager at Hillel House for 56 years said the planning application follows an attack on Leeds Hillel House, which saw “Free Palestine” spray painted on the building.

Further explaining the reasoning for the application, Ruth said: “It is a good thing to do given the security situation and concerns about external organisations regarding Jewish student accommodation.”

Adding: “If you’ve got a gate and a fence, that has got to help you feel less threatened and more at ease.”

The application is yet to be approved but Ruth hopes the security measures will be in place for next semester.

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