Category: COMMUNITY ANCHORS

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Residents invited to become Community Health Champions and transform local wellbeing

Staff at Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) engaging in community outreach work / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Residents across Birmingham are being offered a unique opportunity to become a catalyst for change in their communities.

The Birmingham Community Health Champions programme is officially open for applications, inviting passionate individuals to step forward, gain expert knowledge and lead the way towards a healthier, more informed and connected city.

Funded by Birmingham City Council’s Public Health Team and delivered in partnership with Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA), the initiative is designed to bridge the gap between health services and local residents.

Building Connections

By empowering ‘trusted voices’ within the community, the programme aims to ensure that vital health information isn’t just a list of statistics for people to access but a supportive conversation between friends and neighbours.

The benefits of joining the programme and becoming a Community Health Champion are extensive. People will benefit from:

  • Professional Training: Gain free, monthly expert-led training on critical topics including mental health, nutrition, cardiovascular health, diabetes and air quality.
  • Personal Growth: Develop communication skills, build your CV and grow your confidence.
  • Flexibility: The role is designed to fit around your life. Whether you have hours to spare or just a few minutes for a chat, your contribution matters.
  • Full Support: Champions receive ongoing guidance and all travel expenses are fully reimbursed.

 

Tackling Inequalities

Waheed Saleem, Head of Programmes and Partnerships at Witton Lodge, added: “Community Health Champions will be trusted voices within their communities.

“By using the knowledge gained through the programme they will be able to make a real difference.

“Anyone with a passion to make a difference can join. This is a great opportunity to address health inequalities and improve wellbeing across Birmingham.”

A lack of experience is no barrier to becoming a Community Health Champion. People don’t need a medical background or prior work experience in a medical or health setting, they just need to have a genuine desire to help others.

The programme provides all the tools people need to share practical, accessible health advice through everyday conversations.

Joining is simple. Interested residents can apply via the Volunteer Brum platform by completing an Expression of Interest form. This is followed by a friendly introductory conversation and a comprehensive induction session.

Alternatively, you can get started immediately by completing the Community Health Champion Getting to Know You Form – North Birmingham.

For more details, please call Fauzia on 0121 382 1930 or email: [email protected]

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: Safety net, springboard, and the power of community

WLCA Chief Officer Afzal Hussain standing outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

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

For over three decades Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) has played an active role in helping residents access advice and support services when they experience difficult times. While this is central to our purpose, it’s only part of the picture – we also help unlock and nurture local talent.

It’s often the case that residents turn to us in moments of crisis – cost of living pressures remains a harsh reality for many families. WLCA colleagues step in with practical, hands-on help, guiding residents through a system that can feel overwhelming.

This support often (although, unfortunately not always) prevents individuals and families from reaching crisis point and is the safety net that keeps many households afloat.

But WLCA is also a springboard. Through training, employment support, and enterprise programmes, residents gain confidence, skills, and access to new opportunities. People who’ve been out of work for years find routes back into work. Others discover volunteering pathways, or community projects that help them grow.

Crucially, at Witton Lodge local people are not just receiving services – they are actively shaping and delivering them. Through our community forums, resident panels, and neighbourhood conversations, we utilise local insights, experience and expertise.

As a result, local decisions reflect lived experience, and our residents help design solutions that actually work on the ground.

There is growing acknowledgement that community powered organisations – rooted in trust, relationships, and local knowledge are essential to delivering long term change. At WLCA, we support this shift: putting community voice at the centre and giving residents real influence over the services that affect their lives.

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

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

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Reflecting on a year of our Skills Hub

Simon Wilson, The Pioneer Group CEO / Photograph by Phil Greig and supplied by The Pioneer Group

Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support

Over the past year, our Skills Hub has become something we’re incredibly proud of. The Skills Hub has quickly grown into one of the most valued parts of our community offer.

Back in March 25, we transformed an underused space in Topcliffe House into a dedicated home for training, employment support and partnerships with local providers.

By September, the Skills Hub opened its doors and welcomed residents to weekly courses run by BMet and Birmingham Adult Education Service, alongside our own 1:1 support and job clubs. Since then, we’ve seen almost 300 visits in just the first three months, with more than half coming from Castle Vale residents.

We’ve also embraced digital skills in a big way. During Get Online Week, our session on using AI for job searching was so popular that we now run it regularly. And thanks to new funding through the Digital Innovation Fund, we’ll be helping at least 200 people across the city build confidence with technology, while supporting young people to become digital mentors.

Since refurbishing one of the empty rooms at Topcliffe House, it has allowed us to offer even more learning opportunities, right in the heart of the estate.

For us, it’s simple. We’re here to do more than provide homes. We’re here to help people build brighter futures and the Skills Hub is proof of what’s possible when community comes first.

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk and for more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk 

The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Places of safety and play with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) team outside Hope House, Perry Common / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

At Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) we know how important places of safety and play are for children and young people in our communities. We aim to provide places like this across Erdington, utilising brilliant shared spaces like Family Hubs and churches, and teams of faithful, friendly volunteers.

Play is often an underrated activity for young people and adults alike! Play involves fun and enjoyment, builds bridges between different people and helps to relax the body. Play fires up the brain, boosting resilience, creativity and well-being.

At our Youth Café, based at St Barnabas Church on Erdington High Street, our team of Youth Leaders listen to, care for and engage young people in play – and have a great time!

Through the ups and downs of life in secondary school, plus the dark, cold winter months, we are present and available for young people to come and play, leave the day behind for a short time and find rest for their mind, body and spirit.

“Thank you for giving us a safe and fun place to hang out…”
“Thank you all for being there for us when we needed a safe place to talk about our day…”
“I appreciate your effort in making Youth Club a place where I can unwind…”

Do you know a young person in need of a safe place to play, find rest and have fun?

For more information about Youth Café and other activities visit www.urbandevotion.org and get in touch – or scan the QR code above.

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: Volunteer opportunities for 18-25 years old with the Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme

ENNS meeting with local community groups at Perry Common Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme (ENNS) is looking for young people (18-25) who would like to volunteer with the constituency wide organisation and join their official funding panel.

Launched in 2019, ENNS funds and supports community groups and charities across Erdington – helping them to deliver a wide range of activities and services, from Castle Vale to Kingstanding.

From walking groups and mental health support to arts and craft sessions and coffee mornings, the ENNS has so far invested over £750,000 into local projects for people across Erdington – overseen by Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA).

The ENNS is now looking for young adults to join their team of volunteers and sit on their funding panel, giving them valuable experience and a chance to get more involved in their community.

ENNS are particularly looking for people who are interested in supporting their local community by attending Funding Panel and Steering Group meetings every quarter. No previous experience is needed, just your willingness to get involved.

If you are aged 18-25 and ready to volunteer with the ENNS, or want to learn more about, then contact WLCA by emailing: [email protected]

What can the ENNS offer volunteers?

To make sure volunteers feel confident and supported in their role, ENNS will provide:

  • Full training and guidance on reading applications and making fair, informed decisions.
  • Reimbursement for any out of pocket expenses, including travel mileage and bus fares.
  • Invitations to community events, where you can connect with others and see the impact of your contribution,
  • Volunteer lunch in ENNS meetings, as a thank you for your time, energy, and commitment.

Why join the ENNS volunteer team?

Volunteering with ENNS means being part of a welcoming, inclusive community where your insights matter. You’ll help shape services that directly improve people’s lives, and you’ll meet great people along the way.

Overarching role and responsibilities of ENNS funding panel members

As a member of the ENNS funding panel your role is to support the investment of resources into and within the Erdington constituency, primarily for disabled adults and older adults.

Outside of Perry Common Hall / Photograph by Ed King

ENNS funding panel activities

Panel members meet four times a year (every three months) for up to three hours at Perry Common Community Hall. The funding panel will:

  • Receive and discuss reports on where investments have been made and where investments are needed (also referred to as mapping gaps)
  • Receive and discuss applications and where appropriate award micro and small grants up to £20,000
  • Support community organisations and groups in the delivery of services to disabled adults and older people (also referred to as community development and infrastructure need)

Who are the volunteers ENNS are looking for?

ENNS are particularly looking for people who are interested in supporting their local community. No previous experience is necessary as ENNS will:

  • Provide training and support in reading applications and making decisions about them.
  • Reimburse any out-of-pocket expenses (travel mileage, bus tickets)
  • Invite you to various community events and welcome you to our volunteer’s lunch.

Launched in 2019, the Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme (ENNS) is a portfolio of local community groups and activities – supporting over 50’s and adults living with disabilities.

To become and ENNS volunteer or lean more about the organisation email: ENNS [email protected]

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: Looking forward into 2026 with Witton Lodge Community Association

WLCA Chief Officer Afzal Hussain standing outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

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

Happy New Year, Erdington!

Now is a great time to set new goals and make those changes that you’ve been promising yourself. Many of us start the year thinking about new resolutions – whether that’s improving our health, learning new skills, finding a new job or getting more involved in the community.

Whatever your plans, now is the perfect moment to take action and Witton Lodge Community Association is here to support you.

If finding work or building your skills is on your list, then get in touch, we also have a project for our younger residents. WOW! is a fantastic programme that supports 18-21 year olds with training, guidance and opportunities to prepare them for the world of work. It’s a great way to open doors to new possibilities.

There are also exciting developments in local health services. The NHS is working towards introducing a Neighbourhood Health Service, designed to bring care closer to home and make it easier for people to access the support they need.

Your ideas and feedback are vital to shaping how this service works for our community so please get involved with ‘Community Voice’ and help create something that truly meets local needs.

Witton Lodge Community Association champions local community voices and we remain immensely grateful to our volunteers and local groups. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our communities, their time, energy and passion keep vital services running.

If you’re ready to take the plunge and become a volunteer, get in touch with us and we will work with you to make it happen.

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

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

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Building momentum across Castle Vale with The Pioneer Group

Simon Wilson, The Pioneer Group CEO / Photograph by Phil Greig and supplied by The Pioneer Group

Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support

We know that Castle Vale is a proud community with a strong sense of identity, and the Government’s latest data* shows that things are beginning to move in the right direction.

While we remain aware of the challenges many residents face particularly around income, employment and access to opportunities the estate is less deprived than it was five years ago, which shows clear signs of progress.

We are also seeing improvements in community safety. Crime levels remain lower than the Birmingham average, showing the positive impact of local partnerships and a strong community spirit. These shifts matter; they create the foundations for greater confidence, investment and wellbeing.

We know that high‑quality housing and a safe, attractive environment are essential for a thriving community. The latest data highlights that Castle Vale performs better than many similar neighbourhoods in areas such as housing quality and the wider living environment, and we remain committed to strengthening those advantages.

But opportunity also depends on skills. Our Skills Hub, based in Topcliffe House continues to grow, offering CV support, training and pathways to local jobs helping residents build brighter futures right here on the estate.

Castle Vale is changing, and we are proud to play our part in driving that positive momentum forward.

(*Based on the Government’s 2025 statistics on deprivation, for more visit www.deprivation.communities.gov.uk)

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk

The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Supporting young people’s hopes, dreams, and ambitions for the future with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Team from Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) talking to young people / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Ash Porter, Volunteer Co-ordinator and Deputy Safeguarding Lead at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

At this time of year many of us are inevitably drawn into thinking about what our dreams and goals are. What do you want to happen? What would you like to achieve? What are your dreams?

And it isn’t just adults who ask these questions. Children and young people across Erdington will be asking them too.

Last year UDB did a piece of research with over 110 young people, asking them questions about their dreams and ambitions for the future. We found that 88% of those questioned had goals or dreams for the future.

Some talked about traveling more, others about becoming musicians, and some simply wanted a family of their own one day. There was a vast range of dreams and hopes, all full of unique hope for the future.

At UDB we passionately believe that every young person is full of potential, and we want to see them work towards achieving these dreams. Schools play their part by educating and equipping young people. Families provide a home and support from which to build on.

At UDB we provide spaces for young people to grow in confidence and self-esteem, build lasting relationships, try new things and grow as individuals. All of this builds a foundation for young people to pursue their purpose and reach their full potential.

Do you know what the children and young people in your life dream of for their future, and is there any way you could help them achieve their dreams this year?

For more about UDB 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: Workshops to help influence local healthcare with Witton Lodge Community Association

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Are you an Erdington or Sutton Coldfield resident with an active interest in the health and wellbeing of your community?

If the answer is yes, then Witton Lodge Community Association is giving you the opportunity to influence the future of local healthcare provision.

We are hosting two North Locality Health Progress Workshops later this month and would love as many residents as possible from across our communities to participate.

The North Locality Health Plan is designed to actively tackle health inequalities across North Birmingham.

To make this plan genuinely effective, it needs to be rooted in the lived experience of the people it’s for – our residents.

Be part of the conversation

  • Tuesday, December 16th from 11am to 2pm at The Trinity Centre Church Hill, Sutton Coldfield – To book onto the SUTTON COLDFIELD event, please click here.
  • Wednesday, December 17th from 10.30am to 12noon at Perry Common Community Hall at 87 Witton Lodge Road, Erdington – To book onto the ERDINGTON event, please click here.

Witton Lodge Community Association is working closely with key health providers and other community groups to deliver this project.

Jo Townsend, our Communications and Community Engagement Manager, stresses: “We really encourage all residents from across Erdington and Sutton Coldfield to join us at these events and share their insights on their own experiences and insights to create practical solutions that improve health for everyone.”

The future of community healthcare

The workshops will allow residents to hear the latest updates on the plan and find out exactly what’s being proposed for their neighbourhoods.

“They are a dynamic platform for community collaboration,” added Jo, “It’s a chance for residents from across North Birmingham to ensure the health plan genuinely considers people’s views.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming all residents to take an active role in creating a healthier, stronger future for themselves and our local communities.”

To ensure we can accommodate everyone, please book your place as soon as possible by emailing [email protected] or scanning the QR code in the relevant graphic above.

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: Listening to and supporting young people across Erdington with Urban Devotion Birmingham

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.

For more about UDB scan the QR code or visit www.urbandevotion.org

Follow UDB’s social media on Instagram or Facebook (@urbandevotion).

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