Youth engagement with Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) / Photograph supplied by UDB
Words by Callum Hodson, Community Activity Developer at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)
At Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB), we believe that listening to young people is one of the most powerful ways to build a stronger, more hopeful community.
When we listen, we don’t just hear words; we understand experiences, dreams and challenges that shape the future of Erdington.
Our recent research found that 85% of young people in Erdington enjoy living in the area, showing how deeply connected they feel to their community. But we’ve also heard that many struggle with low confidence and limited aspirations.
Listening helps us see beyond the surface and respond with compassion, opportunity and support.
At UDB, we are here, walking alongside young people every day. Through our weekly drop-in sessions, we offer safe spaces to talk, create and grow. These conversations are where change begins.
When young people feel heard, they begin to believe that their voice matters, and that belief can transform lives.
With 37% of young people in Erdington facing mental health challenges, listening is more vital than ever. It takes empathy, time and community effort, because it truly takes a village to help young people thrive.
So here’s a challenge: Is there a young person you know who needs someone to listen, to feel heard and seen?
Your time and attention could make all the difference. Together, we can ensure every young voice in Erdington is valued and every young person feels they belong.
Simon Wilson – The Pioneer Group Chief Executive / Photograph by Phil Greig, supplied by The Pioneer Group
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
As we approach the festive season, there’s plenty happening across Castle Vale.
We’re delighted to bring back our popular Take a Tag gift tree at The Sanctuary, giving residents the chance to make Christmas brighter for those in need. Look out for our advert in this paper which gives you all the information to get involved.
A big thank you to M&BG for donating a Christmas tree and to Nationwide Windows and Doors for providing the lights, we’ll be announcing the details on our social channels of our Christmas Tree Light Switch-On.
Beyond the festivities, we’ve been investing in our community.
This year saw the launch of the Topcliffe Skills Hub, a space for our Skills and Employment Team. Since opening, the hub has welcomed 142 Job Club attendances (including 46 Castle Vale residents), 39 course registrations (18 local), and hosted a popular AI information session with 16 attendees.
Participants range from 16 to 67 years, and courses such as English with Social Media, Parenting Skills, and Digital Skills for Beginners have been in high demand. We’re now consulting residents to shape future courses and working with partners like the BAN network to introduce vocational training and strengthen links with local employers.
We’ve also published our latest Customer Annual Report, which shows: £1.5m saved and reinvested into community regeneration, £867k secured to retrofit 77 homes, 84% customer satisfaction, above sector averages & £4.6m in social value generated.
I’d recommend having a look at how we’re performing on our website.
As always. thank you for your continued support, and I wish you an enjoyable festive period.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Police involved in Operation Skybridge in Erdington / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police
Words by Inspector Hayley Thompson – Erdington Neighbourhood Police Team
It’s been another busy month for the Erdington neighbourhood team. As the darker nights draw in, burglary and car crime often see an increase, so our officers are stepping up patrols in key areas, acting on your information, and working closely with partners to prevent crime and protect people.
If you’re heading out, take a few simple steps to keep your home and vehicle secure. Lock windows, doors, and porches. Remove valuables from your car, lock it properly, and store your keys in a safe place.
Inside your home, keep laptops, phones, jewellery, wallets, and car keys out of sight from windows and doors.
Patrol car with Operation Skybridge in Erdington / Photograph by Ed King, Erdington Local
We’re pleased to share that Operation Skybridge is returning to Erdington and Stockland Green areas this month. Expect to see more officers on the streets over the next few weeks, working hard to crack down on burglary, robbery, vehicle and drug crime.
Erdington has seen significant investment from West Midlands Police over the past year, with two major initiatives launched: Operation Skybridge in October 2024 and Operation Fearless in January 2025.
Both teams have made great progress in reducing crime and helping residents feel safer and we’re determined to keep that momentum going.
Inspector Hayley Thompson from the Erdington and Sutton Coldfield Neighbourhood Police Teams / Photograph supplied by WMP
We’ll also be hosting more police surgeries from our community engagement hub, located outside B&M. Pop down, meet the team, and share any concerns.
Dates for your diary: Saturday 22 November (4:00pm – 5:00pm), Thursday 27 November (11:00am – 12:00pm), Sunday 30 November (4:00pm – 5:00pm).
There will also be a Spring Lane Speed Watch/Parking meeting on Monday 8 December (7:00pm – 8:00pm) at Erdington RFC, Spring Lane Playing Fields, Kingsbury Rd, Erdington, Birmingham.
West Midlands Police have confirmed the rush hour chaos and widespread traffic gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas earlier today was caused by “a collision involving five vehicles”.
The local force also confirmed that despite the number of vehicles involved, and the busy location in which the incident occurred, none of those involved were “seriously injured”.
Reports came in early this afternoon after traffic on Chester Road was brought to a standstill following an incident – suspected to be near the M6 motorway interchange – that was creating widespread disruption across the area.
At around 5pm traffic was still at an absolute standstill, trapping hundreds of drivers trying to make their way across Northeast Birmingham on a Friday afternoon.
Incident causing major tailbacks and widespread gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Vehicles travelling along Fort Parkway, Chester Road, and leaving the Castle Vale estate were ground to a halt – as police tried to keep frustrated drivers calm and deal with the situation.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police told: “We were called to reports of a collision involving five vehicles on Chester Road, Birmingham, just before 3pm.
“Thankfully, no one was reported to have been seriously injured.”
They added: “Anyone who witnessed the collision can contact us via Live Chat on our website or by calling 101 quoting log 3109 of 21 November.”
Incident causing major tailbacks and widespread gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Castle Vale reporter Tracy Fisher, who spoke to officers at the scene, told how much of the uniformed police presence was involved in talking to drivers who were becoming “increasingly frustrated” at the gridlock.
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin was also at the scene and told Erdington/Castle Vale Local that he witnessed a BT Open Reach van likely involved in the collision, that was “a bit dented”, but that by around 6:30pm police were successfully moving the traffic and the congestion was starting to ease.
Cllr Goodwin also noted other drivers who were becoming distracted by the incident and putting themselves and potentially others at risk.
Police responding to gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Early this evening, whilst still at the scene, Cllr Goodwin told Erdington/Castle Vale Local: “There has been a road traffic incident [on Chester Road] and people should stay away from the Chester Road area whilst police deal with this incident and keep people safe.”
He added: “The traffic is starting to move, but not a quick as you would normally see. Can people please drive safely as well, as it could cause another accident.”
An incident has sent the rush hour traffic into chaos on and around the Chester Road by Spitfire Island and up to the M6 motorway interchange – putting hundreds of drivers in “gridlock”.
Cars and vehicles are currently locked bumper to bumper on large parts of the Chester Road, from the Tyburn Road roundabout right up to the M6.
The incident has also created equal congestion on Fort Parkway, with drivers leaving the City Centre now forced into a standstill.
Traffic coming off the Castle Vale estate is also backed up with pictures on social media showing lines of stationary cars up Farnborough Road and Tangmere Drive.
Incident causing major tailbacks and widespread gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Erdington/Castle Vale Local reporter Tracy Fisher was at the scene and has taken a series of photos showing just how bad the traffic jam has become.
According to her report, traffic was in complete “gridlock” and drivers were becoming “increasingly frustrated” and irate – with some “honking their horns” and shouting.
Tracy tells that police attending were talking to drivers to try and temper their frustration, but there seemed to be little movement or improvement to the standstill
She was also told by emergency services at the scene there had been an incident near the M6 interchange but there had been “no serious injuries.”
Police responding to gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photograph by Tracy Fisher
Castle Vale Councillor Ray Goodwin told Erdington/Castle Vale Local: “I would advise everybody to stay at home and avoid both the Chester Road and the surrounding areas as there has been an incident which has now caused gridlock – on the estate and surround roads.
“Please avoid leaving the estate unless you really need to, as emergency services deal with the ongoing incident. And our thoughts are with anyone who may have been involved in the incident.”
Erdington/Castle Vale Local has reached out to all emergency services for an update.
Incident causes gridlock on Chester Road and surrounding areas / Photgraphs by Tracy Fisher
On Sunday 9 November, communities across the country will stand together in solidary to honour the men and women from Commonwealth states who lost their lives in the First World War.
Held annually on the closest Sunday to Armistice Day, on 11 November, Remembrance Sunday is “a national opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life” – as described by the British Legion.
In Erdington Town Centre, a special holy communion remembrance service will be held from 10:30am at St Barnabas Church on Erdington High Street – a two hundred year old place of workshop that also houses many Commonwealth War Graves in its churchyard.
Commonwealth War Grave at St Barnabas Church in Erdington Town Centre / Photograph by Ed King
A spokesperson for St Barnabas Church told: “This Remembrance Sunday, we come together to honour those who gave their lives in service. Please join us as we remember. All are welcome.”
Over in Kingstanding, a commemorative march will begin at 9:45am from No1 Public House on the corner of College Road and Hurstwood Road.
The march will walk under a mile to St Martin’s Church on Witton Lodge Road, for a special commemorative service, before heading back to No1 Public House for Laying of the Wreaths and the Last Post – a buffet and refreshments will also be provided.
Clifton & Alex from No1 Public House explained: “We look forward to seeing many of you there for this solemn occasion as we remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom we have today.”
On Castle Vale, a Remembrance Sunday commemorative service will be held at St Cuthbert’s Church on Castle Vale High Street – with local Councillor Ray Goodwin laying a wreath at the armed service personal memorial at 11am.
On Tuesday 11 November at 11am, Cllr Goodwin will also be raising a flag in Centre Park, in between Yatesbury Avenue and Tangmere Drive, marking the official Armistice Day anniversary and further commemorating those who fell in the Great War.
The First World War, also known as the ‘Great War’, began on 28 July 1914 and continued for over four years, finally ending at the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918.
Cited as one of the deadliest conflicts in human history, the war claimed over 40million military and civilian casualties and radically changed how battles were fought in the field.
Ever since the armistice on 11 November 1918, countries and Commonwealth states across the world have marked the occasion with commemoration services and events, as well as displaying red poppies – symbolising the prominence of the flower which grew out of many of the war’s worst battlegrounds.
Remembrance Day wreaths adorn the National War Memorial steps in London / Photograph from Adobe Stock Images
In Birmingham City Centre, the main Remembrance Sunday service will be held opposite St Paul’s Cathedral on Colmore Row – with a march starting at 10:30am.
A subsequent service will begin at 10:55am – led by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE, and joined alongside the Lord Lieutenant Derrick Anderson CBE, and the Bishop of Birmingham the Rt Reverend Dr Michael Volland.
Erdington locals are invited to come and meet Pudsey Bear at a special fundraising event outside Greggs on Erdington High Street, on Saturday 8 November.
Taking place outside the popular store between 10am and 3pm, the famous BBC Children in Need mascot will be saying a big bear hig hello to children and families – as the kind hearted Erdington Greggs staff raise money for the longstanding BBC children’s charity.
As well as getting to meet the most famous bear to ever wear an eye patch, the Erdington Greggs organised event will have music, arts activities for young people, and a special Bric-a-Brac table top sale – with public donations being sold to raise funds.
There will also be a special ‘decorate your own Gingerbread Man’ table and organisers have told Erdington Local there may be a few more surprises in store.
100% of all money raised on the day will be donated to the BBC Children in Need charity.
Whist getting ready for the fundraising event on Saturday 8 November, the manager of Greggs Erdington – Kirstie McGibbon – told Erdington Local: “We’re all big supporters of Children in Need here. One of our staff members, Claire, has run fundraising events for the charity before and we wanted to get involved as well.
“We have lots of customers who would want to support Children in Need, and we have a busy shop right on Erdington High Street – so there’s a lot of footfall in and outside.
“We thought why not, let’s do something big and to support the charity and the children it helps.”
Greggs on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King
Kirstie added: “We’d love to see lot of people come down and meet Pudsey on Saturday, and to help us raise money through the Bric-a-Brac table and children’s arts sessions.
“It’ll be a lot of fun and hopefully help raise some money for a really worthwhile cause.”
Erdington Business Improvement District (BID), the local organisation that manages Erdington Town Centre, welcomes the positive community action onto Erdington High Street.
A spokesperson for the Erdington BID told: “It’s fantastic that the Greggs staff want to hold this event and raise money for such a worthwhile charity – supporting young people and children across the UK.
“They already do so much for the community; people socialise at Greggs, and it’s a safe and welcoming place for many local residents and shoppers.
They added: “We’re lucky to have our Greggs on Erdington High Street; the staff that work there are truly lovely people, and the breakfast sandwiches and coffee are not a bad way to start the day either.”
Children in Need fundraising bucket outside Erdington Greggs / Photograph by Ed King
BBC Children in Need is an official charity organised by the UK broadcaster, supporting young people and disadvantaged children across the UK throughout the year.
Every November, BBC Children in Need also hosts a special telethon fundraiser on BBC One and BBC Two – with celebrities and guests presenting a range of entertainment and educational content to raise awareness and funds for youth focused outreach and support programmes.
Established in 1980, BBC Children in Need has raised over £1bn through sponsored events, fundraisers, and donations, and is the “UK’s largest independent funder of youth work” – as cited on the charity’s official website.
BBC Children in Need will hold its next annual telethon on 14 November 2025.
(l-r) Rajinder and Ashok Kumar cutting the cake at their retirement celebration / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani
Words by Nicola Murray
For nearly five decades, Ashok Supermarket on Slade Road in Stockland Green has been more than a shop, it has been “the heart of this community”- as told by one longstanding customer.
As the established owners and operators Ashok and Rajinder Kumar retire this autumn, after 47 years of dedicated service, the neighbourhood reflects on the impact the beloved couple have had far beyond the checkout counter.
Since opening their independent supermarket and greengrocers, the Kumars have stood as cornerstones of the Stockland Green community, building relationships that stretch across families.
Outside of Ashok Supermarket on Slade Road, Stockland Green / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani
“My parents have seen generations come and go in the shop,” their daughter Rena reflected. “They have loved being a part of the community and seeing their customers have children and grandchildren… they find it very endearing that the children call them ‘Auntie’ and ‘Uncle’.”
Throughout their near 50 year tenure, the Kumars often donated both their time and resources to many causes over the years – the couple were highly active in the community, supporting local initiatives and offering both their time and resources wherever needed.
When Stockland Green needed support, as well as groceries, they always found a way to lend a helping hand – including preparing meals for local soup kitchens, donating to Macmillan Coffee Mornings at the local Methodist Church, supplying food and drinks for community events, and many more acts of support and charity.
Inside of Ashok Supermarket on Slade Road, Stockland Green / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani
Situated across the road from Stockland Green School, the couple supported teachers who went on strike by providing them with drinks on the picket line. During the Covid pandemic, the kept their shop operating for housebound customers who were reliant on regular grocery deliveries – providing a literal lifeline for those in isolation during the lockdowns.
Their active outreach work cemented them as a firm fixture in the local area, building them a family of friends as well as customers across the wider Stockland Green community. Former residents of Stockland Green would often come back to Slade Road, not just to shop but to visit Ashok and Rajinder.
After the announcement of their retirement, many friends and customers alike rallied round to wish the couple well – and to say how their absence will be felt in the community.
“They will be sorely missed,” told one long term customer ahead of the Kumar’s retirement celebration, “they’ve been the heart of this neighbourhood.”
Another expressed how they were “sad we will not be seeing your lovely smile” and how they’re “going to miss you guys.”
Dholok drum players and public outside of Ashok Supermarket during retirement celebration / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani
An official retirement party was held for Ashok and Rajinder Kumar in Stockland Green on Wednesday 1 October, where many in the community gathered to celebrate the retirement of the couple – and see them hand over the keys the next generation, who will be keeping Ashok Supermarket open for business on Slade Road.
Ashok and Rajinder received widespread well wishes from local residents, friends, and family members, which is a testament to their impact, and extended their sincere thanks to all explaining, “It’s been an honour to serve this community.”
Rajinder herself added, “It’s never just been a business. It’s been a way to serve, connect, and grow with the people around us.”
Ashok Supermarket is located at 517 Slade Road, Stockland Green.
Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.
If you are from a community group, or an active volunteer or local resident anywhere in the Erdington constituency, then we want to hear from you. Please email our Community News desk at: community@erdingtonlocal.com
(l-r) Representatives from Birmingham United FC and Castle Vale Stadium / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group
Words supplied by The Pioneer Group
Birmingham United FC is proud to announce a major milestone in the club’s journey — the first team will now play its home fixtures at Castle Vale Stadium, marking the first time since adopting the name Birmingham United that the senior side will compete within the city of Birmingham itself.
This move represents more than just a change of venue — it is a homecoming, a statement of intent, and a foundation for further impact and growth.
Founded with the goal of creating opportunities for talented young footballers across Central Birmingham, Birmingham United FC has built a reputation for developing players both on and off the pitch.
Sign outside Castle Vale Stadium / Photograph by Ed King
The relocation of the first team to Castle Vale aligns with the club’s mission to be based at the heart of the Birmingham footballing community and to use sport as a tool for positive change.
“Playing in Birmingham has always been a key goal for us,” said Rajab Noor, Birmingham United FC Chairman.
He adds: “Castle Vale Stadium offers fantastic facilities and a passionate local community. We’re excited not only to bring semi-professional football to the area but also to support the next generation of players through new grassroots and youth initiatives.”
The club intends to work closely with The Pioneer Group – who own and operate Castle Vale Stadium – and other local stakeholders in and around Castle Vale to create accessible football pathways for children and young people.
Public attending football match at Castle Vale Stadium / Photograph by Ed King
Plans are already underway to expand Birmingham United’s grassroots programme — developing new youth teams, delivering coaching sessions, and supporting initiatives that harness the positive social impact of sport.
A spokesperson for the local football club added: “Football has the power to transform the lives of young people, unite communities together and remedy society’s greatest inequalities.
“By basing ourselves in Castle Vale, we feel well-placed to have a significant positive impact on young people across the area.”
As Birmingham United FC embarks on this exciting new chapter, the club invites local residents, fans, and supporters to join them at Castle Vale Stadium and be part of a growing movement that champions opportunity, ambition, and community spirit.
Irfan Mehboob, The Pioneer Group’s Head of Community Facilities, told: “It’s fantastic to have Birmingham United FC hosting their home games here at Castle Vale Stadium. The stadium remains an integral part of our community, and we’re delighted to see more people making use of this great facility.”
He added: “Since investing in the stadium, we hope even more people will take advantage of the excellent facilities we have here.”
For more on Birmingham United FC and links to the club’s social media visit: www.linktr.ee/bhamutd
Inspector Hayley Thompson (photograph supplied by WMP)
Words by Inspector Hayley Thompson – Erdington Neighbourhood Police Team
(**Ed’s note… this column was first published on Friday 17 October in the Erdington Local print edition.)
It’s been another busy month for the Erdington neighbourhood team, as we wrapped up September with a successful All Out Day.
It was fantastic to be out on the High Street, meeting so many of you alongside my colleagues, and new Chief Inspector, Chanelle Whitney.
We spent time speaking with local residents and businesses, listening to concerns around issues like shop theft and drug use, both of which we’re actively working to address. Your feedback is invaluable and helps shape our priorities moving forward.
We’re incredibly grateful for the continued support from our partners, including Birmingham Community Safety Partnership, North LCSP, Erdington BID, and many others.
The presence of Fearless officers on the High Street has become a reassuring sight for many residents and businesses and their weekly patrols are making a real impact.
We’ve charged a man with a string of shop thefts on Erdington High Street, after he was arrested by Fearless officers on 1 October.
Erdington Neighbourhood Police Team and Birmingham City Council Safety Enforcement Offciers on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King
The 24-year-old was charged with seven theft offences from several different stores, including on the High Street.
Among those also arrested this week were individuals wanted for domestic harassment, drink driving, and failing to comply with a community order.
Looking ahead, we’ve got several community open events happening this month at our Engagement Hub, located outside B&M. These are a great opportunity to speak directly with officers, get crime prevention advice, and have a friendly chat.
