Category: COMMUNITY ANCHORS

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Residents invited to Work & Wellbeing Fair in Erdington on 16 October

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Residents are invited to join Witton Lodge Community Association for a friendly and inspiring Work & Wellbeing Fair this October.

Taking place on Friday 16 October from 10am to 2pm at Six Ways Baptist Church, 10 Wood End Road, Erdington, B24 8AD – the event will bring together a host of local partners offering advice, information, and practical support.

Whether attendees are looking for employment, interested in training, seeking help with their health, or simply keen to connect with people in their local area, there will be plenty to discover. 

Come Along and Discover

Visitors will be able to:

  • Meet local employers and find out about current job opportunities
  • Speak to organisations offering skills, training, and progression support
  • Discover health and wellbeing services available in the local community
  • Learn about ways to become more active close to home
  • Connect with local community groups and support organisations
  • Take part in fun physical activities and wellbeing sessions
Six Ways Baptist Church, Erdington / Photograph by Ed King

The fair will provide a chance to have informal conversations with organisations, ask questions, and find out what support is available.

Residents can attend whether they are actively looking for work, considering a career change, interested in developing new skills, or simply wanting to explore activities and services in their neighbourhood.

Waheed Saleem from Witton Lodge Community Association said: “We are delighted to bring local partners together for this special community event. Everyone involved shares our commitment to supporting residents to live better, healthier lives.

“The fair is a fantastic opportunity for residents to discover opportunities, access support, and enjoy some fun activities in a friendly and welcoming environment.”

There is no need to book in advance. Residents can simply drop in at any time between 10am and 2pm. To find out more, contact the friendly Witton Lodge team on (0121) 382 1930.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Going Underground at Urban Devotion Birmingham’s youth centre

Young people playing basketball at The Underground youth centre / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

On the side of St Martin’s Church, you’ll find a small, door-sized metal shutter. It might not look like much, but behind it is something rather special: a youth centre quite literally underground.

The Underground has been providing a safe and welcoming space for young people for more than 20 years. During the school day, it is used by Oscott Academy, but in the afternoons and evenings, Urban Devotion Birmingham transforms it into a place for young people to meet, have fun and grow.

From open-access drop-ins and development groups to holiday activities, there’s plenty going on. And, perhaps surprisingly, there’s even a sports hall!

Shiloh, a secondary school student who recently started attending, said: “It’s been fun and cool because I’ve met new people. The sports hall is fun – I didn’t expect it to be there. The workers are cool and helpful.”

The sports hall is a particular favourite. As autumn and winter arrive, having an indoor space where young people can run around, be active and burn off some energy is invaluable – especially when it’s cold and dark outside.

The Underground is about more than activities; it’s a place to belong, make friends and spend time with positive role models.

If you know a young person who could benefit from a space like that, take a look at UDB’s activity schedule and send them down to The Underground, we’d love to see them.

For more about Urban Devotion Birmingham scan the QR code or visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Working in schools with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Generic images of young people sitting a classroom / Image from Adobe Stock Images

Words by Urban Devotion Birmingham

This article was first published in the Erdington Local monthly newspaper on 14 August. Be the first to get your local news delivered through your door, support independent community journalism, and email us at: subscribe@erdingtonlocal.com

The Urban Devotion Birmingham team has worked in seven primary and secondary schools this year, delivering a varied programme of activities that support the social, emotional, and behavioural needs of children and young people in our communities.

One of many highlights of this year has been our SAFE Mentoring Project, where through a mix of one to one and small group mentoring we have worked alongside 35 pupils, supporting wellbeing, behaviour, and attendance.

Our mentoring places trustworthy individuals in children’s lives who will explore alternatives with them, instil a belief that something better is possible, and help them to set and achieve goals. We believe that mentoring is a key tool in helping young people and children realise transformation in their lives.

This project has been a valuable opportunity to build trusting relationships with children and young people, several who have found the step up from primary to secondary school a significant challenge.

Here is a small insight from three Year 7 students:

“I have learned how to control my anger and I am calmer”, “Mentoring has taught me how to be in control of my feelings”, “I am happier because I got to talk to someone”

As we reflect on the school year just gone and prepare for the new term to come, we are grateful for the trust schools have placed in us and energised to go further in our care and support for children and young people in the communities we serve.

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: National Opportunity Day – creating pathways in Erdington

Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer, Witton Lodge Community Association

This article was first published in the Erdington Local monthly newspaper on 14 August. Be the first to get your local news delivered through your door, support independent community journalism, and email us at: subscribe@erdingtonlocal.com

7 August was National Opportunity Day, celebrating a simple but powerful idea: everyone deserves the chance to learn, grow and build a brighter future, whatever their circumstances.

At Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA), that belief shapes our work every day. For over 30 years we have stood alongside residents across Erdington and North Birmingham, removing barriers to employment, developing skills and supporting people to achieve their ambitions.

Meaningful work transforms lives. It strengthens families, builds confidence and helps create more resilient communities. Through our employment and skills programmes, hundreds of local residents have gained the support they need to take their next step into work, training or self-employment.

Our WOW! (World of Work) Employment Programme provided tailored coaching and one-to-one guidance to 18–21-year-olds, helping young people build confidence and move towards their goals.

Regular large-scale jobs fairs connect job seekers directly with local employers, while our Social Enterprise Support Programme has equipped aspiring entrepreneurs with workshops, mentoring and business planning to launch sustainable, community-focused ventures.

WLCA takes a holistic approach. Alongside employment support, we offer advice on energy, benefits and housing, plus health and wellbeing activities designed to help people thrive.

If you or someone you know in Erdington needs a fresh start, advice or support, contact us on 0121 382 1930, email enquiries@wittonlodge.org.uk or visit one of our hubs.

Opportunity starts here.

Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Click on the image below to read more from Witton Lodge Community Association’s COMMUNITY ANCHORS news pages, first published in the Erdington Local newspaper on 14 August. 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Get outside this summer with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Outdoor activities with Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

The football World Cup was an exciting time, and all the way from England’s dramatic victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo to their sad farewell from the tournament after losing to Argentina – people shared the experience together.

And whilst it wasn’t always an easy watch, the celebrations or commiserations at the final whistle showed just how much sport can make us feel. Joy, disappointment, excitement and hope can all come in the space of 90 minutes.

The tournament also reminds us that summer has arrived. And not long after the World Cup was over, children and young people finished school and have six weeks stretching out ahead of them.

While a slower pace can be welcome, it’s also a great opportunity to get outdoors.

Scan the QR Code above to find out more on Urban Devotion Birmingham

Playing outside, being active and spending time with friends does far more than fill the hours. It builds confidence, strengthens friendships, encourages creativity, and supports good mental wellbeing.

Whether it’s football in the park, games, or simply exploring, outdoor play helps children and young people grow in healthy ways.

At Urban Devotion Birmingham, we’ll be running activities across Erdington throughout the summer holidays, creating safe spaces where children and young people can have fun, make friends and try something new.

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: B:CAN – Inspiring change

Witton Lodge Community Association at B:CAN Annual Conference / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

The Birmingham Community Action Network’s (B:CAN) first Annual Conference was held at Edgbaston Cricket Ground.

B:CAN members were joined by partners, community organisations and stakeholders to celebrate and champion the inspiring work taking place to revitalise communities across the city.

Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer at Witton Lodge Community Association, is Chair of the Network. He said: “We are extremely proud of our progress made and IN realising B:CAN’s true potential when communities, funders & partners unite behind a shared purpose.

“The conference underlined how we are energised, ready for the journey ahead and excited about the impact we will create together.”

Images from the B:CAN Annual Conference / Photographs supplied by WLCA

For more on the Birmingham Community Action Network visit: www.bcan.co.uk

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

Click on the image below to read WLCA COMMUNITY ANCHORS news pages in the July/August edition of Erdington Local, as first published on 16 July 2026.


 

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OPINION: Hope on the horizon with Erdington’s new Police Sergeant Millard – a message from Erdington’s Town Centre Manager

Erdington Town Centre sign by Six Ways Island / Photograph by Ed King

Ed’s note… This article was first published in the Erdington Local monthly newspaper, out on shelf from 18 June.

Be the first to get your local news delivered through your door, support independent community journalism, and email: subscribe@erdingtonlocal.com

Words by Ed King – Erdington Town Centre Manager

After taking over as Town Centre Manager in March 2025, I spent the first six months meeting with the local Neighbourhood Police Team (NPT) and officers from Operation Fearless.

It was an exciting time, with high profile policing in Erdington Town Centre and extensive media coverage about the impact the near million-pound police initiative was making.

And it was working, too.

Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street during initial launch – Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police

But as a rising balloon gets higher in the sky, the easier it can burst. And with a loud pop and dull thud, once the team left Erdington all the good work achieved by Operation Fearless came hurtling back to earth. £880,000 to disrupt the problem. Or move it from Iceland to Borsch Electrical.

So, excitement turned to frustration. Then anger, as I watched revolving door sergeants and inspectors leave no visible strategy, or police officers, on the ground. And for the next six months I had more meetings, and more frustration, mostly ending in the words: “…just do your job.”

Now I don’t know how to run a police force as much as I know how to fly a plane, which (you should know before taking your seat) I don’t. At all. We’d crash before take off.

(l-r) Street Pastor talking to Designated Nieghbourhood Officer on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

But what I meant was the answer – to me, and to the entire retail, consumer, and residential community in Erdington Town Centre – was simple. Regular, physical, uniformed, and active police presence on Erdington High Street.

Building a network and building trust. Doing their job. Or rather, being left alone, and in place, to do their job continuously. Simple.

And whilst I don’t know how many annual salaries the cost of Operation Fearless could have paid for, I do know without an effective handover to the NPT it counted for nothing.

Sergeant Millard (far left) with members of Erdington BID and local stall holders at Erdington High Street Community Market / Photograph by Ilona Zielinska

I also know, have met, and have seen doing their job, we have some excellent officers working the Erdington patch. The problem is they’re seldom left there for long, and after a list of false starts and promises from those above them you start to switch off.

Then, after the second sergeant in under a year had signed up and signed off, I got a call from Detective Chief Inspector Askew – a copper’s copper who led Operation Fearless, and one of the only boys in blue I still allowed myself to trust.

“There’s a new sergeant coming to Erdington… give her a chance, you’ll like her. She gets the job done.”

So, I did. And DCI Askew was right. She was new and her approach was refreshing, and it could work too. Click here to meet her for yourself, Sergeant Claire Millard.

Now all West Midlands Police need to do is their job and support her.

For more from Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) visit www.erdingtonhighstreet.co.uk or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CelebrateErdington

Erdington BID is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Supporting young people across Erdington with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) group photo, outside Hope House in Perry Common / Supplied by UDB

Words by Amy Heyes, Urban Devotion Birmingham

Here at UDB, we believe that every child and young person in Erdington is important, unique and worth our time. This is rooted in our Christian faith and overflows into our care for and support of everyone, regardless of their religion or background.

We know that life has its ups and downs, challenges and celebrations, and we want to be there for children, young people and their families through it all.

That’s why you can find us in local schools throughout the week, as well as running free clubs and activities for families, children and young people.

It’s why young people drop in to chat with us at Hope House on Witton Lodge Road. It’s also why you might see our team in blue UDB hoodies alongside the Mobile Youth Van, parked roadside or out walking the streets.

If you’ve not joined us before — or haven’t been along for a while — we would love to see you.

You can find all the latest information about what we’re doing at www.urbandevotion.org/activities

Our activities don’t stop when schools close, either. We’re here throughout the summer holidays, and most other holidays too.

In July, we’ll update the webpage with details of our summer activities, so do check back to see how you can get involved.

We would love to see you.

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham scan the QR code or visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Three Lions, One Erdington

Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer at Witton Lodge Community Association, standing outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer, Witton Lodge Community Association

As the World Cup arrives, the whole country starts to dream — and Erdington is no exception.

As England fans, we are once again limbering up for the nation’s favourite emotional triathlon: early optimism, confident armchair punditry, and that one mate insisting, usually through a mouthful of biscuits, that they “would have buried that chance.”

While England negotiates the sweaty-palmed business of penalties, VAR reviews and extra time viewed from behind a cushion, Erdington already knows what a strong team looks like. Across the area, volunteers, residents, community groups and local businesses are linking up beautifully – passing kindness, creating chances and making sure no one is left on the sidelines.

Logo of England national team on football jersey white background / Image from Adobe Stock

From our High Street traders and coffee mornings to youth activities, wellbeing sessions and neighbours checking in before full-time, Erdington is full of local legends putting in a proper shift.

Some lead from the front, others do the quiet midfield work that keeps everything together and moving forward. There are no transfer fees involved – just teamwork, tea and the occasional heroic raffle prize.

So, if England do go all the way and finally bring the World Cup home (and we know they can), expect a roar from Erdington loud enough to shake every shopfront on the High Street.

While the Three Lions chase history, let’s also celebrate Erdington’s own winning team: our neighbours, volunteers, and community groups who turn up week after week.

Come on England!

Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

Click on the image below to read Witton Lodge Community Association’s COMMUNITY ANCHORS news, first published in the Erdington Local newspaper – out on shelf from 18 June. 

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

 

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NEWS: Spring into Summer Festival returns ‘the ring’ on Witton Lodge Road – Saturday 13 June

Words by Ed King

Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) are inviting local residents and families to Spring into Summer, as their annual community festival returns to Perry Common on Saturday 13 June.

Held between 12noon and 3pm on ‘the ring’ – the municipal circular parkland on Witton Lodge Road – the community event is free to enter, with some activities charged at only £1.

Full of family friendly fun, the summer festival will host a range of children’s games and activities – including a super slide and a bouncy castle.

Super slide at previous Spring into Summer Festival / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Special ‘learn to ride’ sessions will also be held on the paths within the parkland, teaching young people how to cycle and encouraging them to find their feet – on two wheels.

Young David Attenbououghs and Jane Goodalls will also have the chance to get up close to nature and explore the world of ‘Mini Beasts’ in the ‘Bug and Insect Corner’ – introducing children to the natural world that crawls around under their feet.

Stalls at previous Spring into Summer Festival / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Local services will also be present, offering advice and guidance to local residents – alongside a chance to explore a real life fire engine and police vehicle with members of the local police and fire service also engaging with public at the event.

Held every year, the Spring into Summer Festival is a family favourite on the Perry Common calendar – attended by hundreds of people from across the local area and beyond.

Organised by WLCA, who run the neighbouring Perry Common Community Hall, the annual event is part of a year round programme of events and support services from the Perry Common based community and housing association.

Local crafts at previous Spring into Summer Festival / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Paul Tse, Flourishing Communities Development Officer at WLCA, told: “Spring into Summer has become one of our community’s best loved traditions so it’s a great pleasure for us to be able to bring it back again for people to enjoy.

“It brings people together in a way which celebrates the wonderful community spirit we have here in Perry Common.”

He added: “As always, we are thankful for the support and hard work of our fantastic partners, St Martin’s Church, The Friends of Witton Lakes, Urban Devotion Birmingham and The Net Pentecostal Church, for helping to put the event together.”

For more on WLCA and links to their wider programme of events and services visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.