COMMUNITY ANCHORS: New initiative from Compass Support to introduce girls to football on Castle Vale

Words supplied by The Pioneer Group / Compass Support

Young girls playing football as a team / Pic from Adobe Stock Images

Compass Support, part of The Pioneer Group, is launching an exciting new initiative to introduce girls to football in the local community.

A special taster session will take place on Wednesday, 19 February, during half-term, offering young girls the chance to experience the sport through fun activities, teamwork, and skill-based games.

These sessions aim to encourage girls aged 8-11 to get involved in football, make new friends, and build confidence in a supportive and engaging environment. The taster session will serve as a launchpad for upcoming FA Wildcats sessions, which will continue in the coming months to help grow grassroots girls’ football in the area.

The Sanctuary community centre on Tangemere Drive, Castle Vale / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group

These sessions will initially be held at The Sanctuary, with plans to move to Castle Vale Stadium, part of The Pioneer Group, as the programme expands into the summer months.

This programme has been made possible thanks to funding from Birmingham FA, after the team successfully completed FA training to become an official provider. This funding will help lay the foundation for long-term opportunities for girls to get involved in football and develop their skills.

Local residents attending football match at Castle Vale Stadium / Pic by Ed King

Jo Fieldhouse, Director of Housing and Community, said: “This wonderful opportunity is made possible by the great community assets we continue to invest in across Castle Vale, The Sanctuary community centre and Castle Vale Stadium.

“I am delighted to see this initiative progressing, the team have been holding some informal coaching sessions for some time, attracting funding will strengthen our capacity to continue supporting girls football”

A spokesperson from Birmingham FA added: “We at Birmingham FA are pleased to support and encourage football. Our purpose is to help the game develop, to boost participation and engage the community. By giving players access to fundamental equipment like footballs makes this possible.”

The ultimate goal is to bring girls’ football to Castle Vale by providing a clear pathway for young players to progress in the sport while fostering a love for the game in a fun and inclusive setting.

For more information or to register interest, please contact Compass Support at [email protected] or on (0121) 748 8111.

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

For more on Castle Vale Stadium visit www.castlevalestadium.co.uk/
For more on the Birmingham County Football Association visit www.linktr.ee/BirminghamFA

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

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Join 12-week health and fitness programme at Witton Lakes Park from 27 January – 19 April

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

As part of a wider health initiative the Witton Lakes Eco Hub team invites you to take part in the Green Mile Challenge – a walking and running distance challenge that is inclusive to wheelchair users and designed to inspire health, fitness, and connection to nature.

Over 12 weeks, your mission is to rack up as many miles as you can, either individually or with a group. You can join anytime within the 12-weeks, but we do recommend at least 6 weeks to see progress.

Get involved in the Green Mile Challenge and enjoy:

  • Optional Free Mini Health Checks on Week 1 & 2 and 11 & 12 – Booking essential.
  • 3 Month Walking & Running Distance Challenge – Register recommended.
  • Weekly Green Steppers Walking & Striders Running Group – Starting at
  • Witton Lakes Eco Hub, off Faulkners Farm Drive, B23 7XX.
  • Witton Lakes Finale Celebration 5k Race Sat 26th April – Register to take part.

HOW IT WORKS
Our Route: It’s 1-mile all the way round both Witton Lakes! Take on our scenic 5k loop around Witton Lakes, complete with 1km markers to help track your progress. Perfect for beginners, those training for Couch to 5K or those of you aiming for a personal best on your park run!

Track Your Progress: Download and use the free Strava Fitness App to record your distance and efforts, join The Green Mile WLCA Club.(This app is compatible with all other fitness app and sports watches)

Entrance to Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Pic by Ed King

Join a Group: Take part as an individual or connect with our local walking and running groups:

  • Red Hot Chilli Steppers Walking Group – Mondays, 11am – 12:30pm: Starting point – Perry Common Community Hall, 87 Witton Lodge Road, Perry Common, B23 5JD
  • Erdington Walking Group – Mondays & Fortnightly Thursdays, 6:30pm – 7:30pm: Various Locations, email: [email protected], call 07990 109 117 or search the group via Facebook.

Every Wednesday & Thursday you can also join the Eco Hub’s weekly walking and running programmes. Meet at the Eco Hub Café.

  • Green Striders Running Group (Couch to 5K) with Jemma – Wednesdays, 9:15am – 10:15am (Beginner to Intermediate).
  • Green Steppers Walking Group with Scott – Wednesdays, 1pm – 2pm (All abilities).
    Sensory Stroll with Diane – Thursdays, 11am – 12pm (Easy Walking).
    Celebrate Your Achievement – Eco Hub & Witton Lakes 5K Race!

At the end of the challenge, we’re hosting a 5K Finale Race Event on Sat 26th April at Witton Lakes, followed by a celebration social at the Witton Lakes Eco Hub with prizes, snacks, and drinks. Bring along your family and friends to cheer you on!

Healthy food and excercise equipment / Pic from Adobe Stock Images

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BENEFITS
This inclusive programme is designed for all fitness levels and offers something for everyone:

Improve Your Health: Gain fitness, enhance your physical and mental well-being, and embrace an active lifestyle.

Spend Time Outdoors: Explore the natural beauty of Witton Lakes while enjoying fresh air.

Make Connections: Meet like-minded people and form new friendships through group activities.

Mini Health Checks
To support your journey, we’re offering free health checks during the first two and final two weeks of the challenge. These health checks include BMI (height & weight), blood pressure, heart rate and hip-to-waist ratio. Please note that health checks are optional. If you are unable to attend during these times, contact us to arrange an alternative date. We accept individual or group bookings.

Week 1 & 2 Mini Health Checks (27 Jan – 7 Feb)
Monday – Friday: 10am – 12 pm & 2pm – 4pm
Saturday 1st Feb: 10am – 12 pm

Week 11 & 12 Health Check (7 – 17 April)
Monday – Thursday: 10am – 12 pm & 2pm – 4pm
Saturday 26th April: 9am – 10 pm (Before the Finale Event)

Outside of Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Pic by Ed King

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HOW TO JOIN

It’s easy to join the Green Mile Programme, simply contact the Eco Hub Office on 0121 227 3200 or email the team, [email protected] or [email protected]

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.

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Exciting opportunities at WLCA’s 2025 Jobs Fair!

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Are you ready to kickstart your career or explore new employment horizons? Mark your calendars for Thursday, 30 January, 2025, as Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) brings you an unmissable Jobs Fair at St Barnabas Church on Erdington High Street!

From 10am to 2pm, job seekers will have the chance to connect with a diverse range of employers and training organisations, all under one roof. This event is the perfect opportunity for local residents to take a positive step towards securing employment or enhancing their skillsets.

Our Employment and Enterprise Advisor, Marcia Lewis, is enthusiastic about the upcoming event: “We’re thrilled to build on the success of our previous jobs fairs. These events are incredibly effective at connecting job seekers with employers who have live vacancies. Plus, we’ll also have training providers on hand to offer advice for those looking to upskill.”

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to take the next step in your career journey. Whether you’re seeking employment or looking to enhance your skills, the WLCA Jobs Fair is the place to be on January 30th, 2025. See you there!

WLCA Jobs Fair
Time: 10am – 2pm
Date: Thursday, 30 January 2025
Venue: St Barnabas Church, High Street, Erdington, Birmingham, B23 6SJ

For more information, or if you’re looking for employment or skills support, email [email protected] to find out more about the excellent work we deliver at Witton Lodge Community Association.

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.

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: The Pioneer Group raises over £2,150 for UK’s leading pregnancy and birth support charity, Tommy’s

Words by The Pioneer Group

The Pioneer Group staff Katie and Serina at charity bake sale (750px) / PIc supplied by The Pioneer Group

The Pioneer Group is proud to announce a successful year of fundraising efforts, culminating in a donation of £2,152 to Tommy’s – the UK’s leading charity dedicated to supporting people around pregnancy and childbirth.

Named after St Thomas’ Hospital in London, where the UK’s first ever pregnancy research centre was established from 1997-2021, Tommy’s is dedicated to supporting those dealing with the heartbreak and devastation after losing a baby – and to make pregnancy and birth as safe as possible.

Tommy’s work tirelessly across the whole pregnancy journey to drive change at every level – translating its research breakthroughs into new tests and treatments in clinical care, changing national maternity policy and providing expert information and support for anyone who needs it.

The contribution from The Pioneer Group could fund a month of research by a Tommy’s scientist, helping to prevent second trimester losses and reduce the heartbreak of baby loss.

Staff, stakeholders, and residents of The Pioneer Group came together throughout the year to support this important cause, participating in a variety of creative fundraising activities.

Notable fundraising highlights include:

  • David Bucknall running 60 miles over the month of June
  • Sarah Melaney walking 100 miles during May
  • Kathryn Priest completing 100 skips every day in October
  • A series of community events, including a bake sale, a bake-off by the Executive Leadership Team, a World Cup football sweepstake, Christmas raffle donations, and a sponsored football game
The Pioneer Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Wilson / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group

Simon Wilson, Chief Executive of The Pioneer Group, expressed his pride in the efforts: “This great achievement reflects the passion and commitment of everyone involved, from our staff to our residents.

He added:” Supporting Tommy’s vital work to prevent baby loss aligns with our core values of delivering safe and supportive communities. We’re grateful for the opportunity to make a difference.”

Sarah House, Head of Corporate Partnerships at Tommy’s, also told: “We feel incredibly grateful to work with amazing organisations such as The Pioneer Group whose support is crucial in helping us to continue our mission to stop the heartbreak and devastation of baby loss and make pregnancy and birth safe – for everyone.”

For more on Tommy’s visit www.tommys.org
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.

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Supporting young minds and encouraging positive mental health

Words by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

Artwork supplied by Urban Devotion Birmingham

As we head into a new year, the bubble of excitement, new habits and dreams can quickly be popped by Blue Monday, ‘the most depressing day of the year’.

This is especially the case for our children and young people. According to a 2020 report, 1 in 6 children aged 5-16 are likely to experience mental health problems.

At UDB, we work with a number of young people who are experiencing problems with their mental health, and we see social media having a big impact on this.

Adolescent brains, not yet fully developed and highly mouldable, are being barraged by a constant stream of content. For some, their brains are becoming wired to need the next notification or to be entertained constantly.

In Jonathan Haidt’s book The Anxious Generation he suggests people become anxious and depressed when “they feel isolated, lonely or useless”.

It’s interesting that in a generation more ‘connected’ than ever, we are seeing large numbers of young people who feel isolated and lonely, and consequently, anxious and depressed.

As a community we can make a difference to the mental health of the young people we know. Things like in-person conversations, asking how they are doing, doing things in the physical world with them. These are all small steps, which when done consistently, can make a huge difference.

In a time of the year where mental health conditions can be amplified, why not make an intentional effort to make a difference for yourself and others?

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.

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Committed to Castle Vale residents and celebrating community across 2025 and beyond

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

The Pioneer Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Wilson / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group

A very Happy New Year from The Pioneer Group!

Reflecting on 2024, I am incredibly proud of all we accomplished as an organisation. Together, we reached significant milestones that highlight our unwavering commitment to supporting the Castle Vale community.

Two standout moments in December captured the spirit of our community. The first was the Christmas Tree lights switch-on, a great celebration that brought Castle Vale residents together to share in the festive spirit.

This event would not have been possible without the generosity of our partners, Nationwide Windows and Doors, who donated the tree and lights. Despite challenging weather conditions, residents came together for a festive celebration. Our thanks also go to Cllr Goodwin and the team at Birmingham City Council for their support.

Beyond the event, our partnership with Nationwide has delivered incredible results: 553 homes upgraded, 1,210 properties surveyed, and over £3 million invested in improvements – with more to come.

The second highlight was our Christmas Hamper and Gift Drop. Through the Christmas Tree Tag programme, we identified over 100 children in need, and the community generously donated more than 60 gifts through our Joy to the Vale campaign.

Thanks to our dedicated staff, who worked tirelessly to gather, wrap, and deliver these presents, we brought joy to countless households during the festive season.

As we move into 2025, our commitment to being an anchor within the community remains high on our agenda. We’re excited to launch our new Corporate Plan in April, which will guide our service delivery for the next three years.

By working together with staff, residents, and stakeholders, we look forward to building on our successes and making an even greater impact.

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.

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Celebrating success and creating change on Erdington High Street

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

WLCA Chief Executive Afzal Hussain outside Health and Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King

We recently celebrated three successful years on Erdington High Street, delivering essential services to more than 7,000 residents from our Health & Wellbeing Hub.

Despite recent news of safety concerns at this location, this doesn’t reflect our first-hand experience, and we are proud that the Erdington Health and Wellbeing Hub continues to be a cornerstone of community support, offering vital services in health, employment, housing, and financial advice.

In 2021, Witton Lodge Community Association made a strategic decision to take on the empty High Street facility. By investing and expanding our services over the years, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to drive positive change on the High Street and for the Erdington community. And as many of you will know we followed this up with ambitious plans to refurbish the former Erdington baths.

In another significant development, West Midlands Police has launched Operation Fearless, a major initiative to tackle crime and improve safety in Erdington.

This operation, funded by £880,000 seized from criminals, targets issues such as drug-related activities, anti-social behaviour, and violent crimes with the dedicated team already bringing tangible improvements to community safety.

Together with local residents, groups and partners, we remain committed to improving lives and livelihoods in Erdington. By working collaboratively, we know we can create a safer, more vibrant Erdington where our community can succeed and thrive.

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.

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Witton Lodge Community Association welcomes Minister of State for Employment Alison McGovern MP

Words supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association

Minister of State for Employment McGovern & Paulette Hamilton MP meet young people at Witton Lodge / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association

On Thursday 9 January, the Minister of State for Employment Alison McGovern MP attended a special event at Witton Lodge Community Association to discuss plans for reform of employment and skills in the UK.

The visit included a roundtable discussion with the North Birmingham Economic Recovery (NBER) Board as well as hearing directly from local young people about their experiences of looking for work.

Roundtable discussion on Labour reform
Minister McGovern engaged in a productive roundtable discussion with the NBER board including Chair and Erdington MP, Paulette Hamilton who shared their work to boost the local economy in North Birmingham by connecting local businesses and residents with sustainable opportunities.

This collaborative session highlighted the critical importance of community-led approaches in shaping effective employment policies, harnessing economic growth and securing investments, creating employment opportunities and connecting these to local communities.

During the roundtable, the Minister expressed interest in the successes and lessons learned from the partnership, highlighting the importance of place-based partnerships that offer essential wrap-around support. She also discussed effective ways to assist individuals facing significant challenges in securing employment, emphasising the role of local partner organisations in providing support and strategies for their successful integration into the workforce.

Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association, remarked: “We’re thrilled to welcome Minister McGovern and showcase our youth-focused initiatives at Witton Lodge and the progress of the North Birmingham Economic Recovery Board.

“Our community-driven strategy is creating opportunities for young people, addressing the critical challenges of youth unemployment in our area. Through collaborative efforts, we’re developing sustainable pathways to connect local young people with meaningful job prospects and skills development programmes, ensuring a brighter economic future for our next generation.”

Minister of State for Employment McGovern and Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton meet NBER Board Witton Lodge / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association

Youth employment and skills workshop
Following the roundtable, the Minister actively participated in a busy employment and skills workshop with local young people, organised by Witton Lodge Community Association. This session provided key insights into employment and career opportunities for young people in our local area, aligning with NBER’s commitment to creating jobs and enhancing training opportunities tailored to community needs.

This hands-on session provided a unique opportunity for Minister McGovern to directly engage with local young people and hear their firsthand experiences and ideas about employment and career prospects.

During the session the participants provided key insights into employment and career opportunities for young people in our local area, revealing concerns about inadequate careers advice, lack of work experience opportunities, and challenges in securing employment due to insufficient childcare provision. It also highlighted the need for more accessible and user-friendly alternatives to traditional job centres that sometimes fall short in providing tailored support for young people.

During the workshop, the Minister listened intently as young participants shared their perspectives on the challenges, they face in the job market and shared some of the government’s plans for improving career opportunities for youth employment.

Minister for Employment Alison McGovern said: “The fantastic work being done here at Witton Lodge Community Association to support young people into employment is exactly what our Get Britain Working Plan is all about.

“As part of these reforms, we will be launching a Youth Guarantee trailblazer in the West Midlands to ensure all 18-21-years-olds are earning or learning. At the same time, we are transforming Jobcentres and connecting local work, health and skills services to boost employment, drive up opportunity and spread prosperity here in Erdington and across the country.”

Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton welcomes Minister for Employment Alison McGovern to Witton Lodge Community Association

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.

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Christmas, a time of hope and community across Erdington

Words by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

(Ed’s note – this column was written for the Erdington Local printed edition and first published on 20.12.24)

All over Erdington there are Christmas lights twinkling from windows. For many, this is a season filled with joy. For others, it’s more complicated.

Wherever you stand, Christmas carries a powerful message: light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it.

At Christmas, we celebrate God stepping into a dark world, arriving as a baby to bring hope that changes everything. In uncertain or heavy moments, the birth of Jesus reminds us that God’s love is present.

In the bible it puts is like this: “The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” (John 1:9)

Life’s challenges don’t vanish with the turn of a calendar page, but Christmas reminds us that we don’t have to face them alone. The light of Jesus shines in the darkest places, offering hope to carry us forward.

In Erdington, UDB works to be a light through our support of children and young people. Our drop-ins provide a space to connect, have fun, and discover hope for the future. If you’d like to learn more, scan the QR code.

From all of us at UDB, we wish you a Merry Christmas. We look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

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.

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Celebrating the Castle Vale community at Christmas and into the New Year

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

Simon Wilson, CEO – The Pioneer Group / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group

(Ed’s note – this column was written for the Erdington Local printed edition and first published on 20.12.24)

As we enter the festive season, we reflect on the strength of our community and the importance of supporting one another. We know that while this time of year can bring festive cheer, it can also present challenges for families in Castle Vale. That’s why we remain committed to easing the burden across the Vale.

Our teams are at the heart of what we do, providing support to residents, including delivering hampers to those in need over this festive period, with the aim of bringing joy to the Vale.

I’d also like to reflect on this year’s Christmas Tree Lights Switch-On, which was a great success, bringing residents together in a moment of celebration, reflecting the spirit of Castle Vale.

It’s a tradition that will continue for years to come, and we’re grateful to everyone involved in making this event happen.

As an anchor within the community, we’re continuing our commitment to make Castle Vale a place where everyone can thrive. We’re thankful to our residents, partners, and staff and together, we can make this festive season brighter for all.

We look forward to continuing our work in the new year.
Have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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.