Words by Councillor Ray Goodwin
As the television show goes, Last of the Summer Wine has finally come to an end — and as we move into autumn, our thoughts are turning towards the winter ahead.
For many residents, winter can be difficult. Rising household costs, the pressures of keeping homes warm and the challenges faced by those already struggling mean our focus now has to be on making sure people know where they can turn for help and support.
That work will involve not only our fantastic partner organisations, including Spitfire Services, Upcycle Birmingham and Pioneer Housing, but also the community itself. Castle Vale has always been strongest when residents are placed at the heart of what we do. That will be particularly important over the coming months.
Our recent community festival was a fantastic example of that spirit. It was an amazing day that showcased the very best of Castle Vale — our people, organisations and the incredible community pride that exists here.
But we shouldn’t kid ourselves. We still have some stubborn issues to tackle.
The rollout of the waste pilot is becoming increasingly frustrating. At times, it feels like we are playing a never-ending game of whack-a-mole. Just when one problem appears to have been dealt with, another seems to pop up.
We need to keep pushing for solutions, listening to residents and holding those responsible to account.
Castle Vale is an amazing community. This autumn and winter, we need to make sure we continue putting that community at the centre of everything we do.
For more on Councillor Ray Goodwin www.facebook.com/thisiscastlevale
This article was first published in the Erdington Local monthly newspaper on 18 September.
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