Category: COMMUNITY ANCHORS

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NEWS: Free guided tours of Elderflower Grange care home on Orphanage Road in ‘Open weekend’ on 6 and 7 June

Front of Elderflower Grange care home on Orphanage Road / Image suppiled by Care UK

Words by Ed King

Elderflower Care Home are inviting families and potential residents to have a first look at their new facility on Orphanage Road in a special ‘Open weekend’ this weekend.

Guided tours of the grounds and facilities will be held between 10am and 4pm on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June, with no obligations or costs attached.

Visiting members of the public also invited to join enjoy complimentary refreshments during their tour, including freshly baked cakes by Elderflower’s own chef.

Click here to make a booking to view the facility over the ‘Open weekend’, or contact Elderflower Grange directly by calling (0121) 756 8225 or emailing: rachel.mackay@careuk.com

Landscaped gardens at Elderflower Grange care home on Orphanage Road / Image suppiled by Care UK

Recently opened, the new 77 bedroom care home sits amongst landscaped surroundings and has its own onsite accessible bar, restaurant, cinema room, hair salon, multi faith room, music room, and a special reminiscence room.

Operated by the award winning Care UK, Elderflower Grange is the newest facility in the region from the longstanding care home provider – which also operates Bishop’s Manor and Mercia Grange in neighbouring Sutton Coldfield, both boasting a ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

A spokesperson for Elderflower Care Home told: “Elderflower Grange is a brand new, purpose-built care home in Erdington. Our dedicated and experienced team will provide a full range of care services with the flexibility to meet every need.”

Cafe at Elderflower Grange care home on Orphanage Road / Image suppiled by Care UK

They added: “We pride ourselves on the transparency of our care quality and fee information – ensuring you can trust us to care from that very first step.”

Situated at 86 Orphanage Rd, Erdington, Elderflower Care Home offers residential care for over 65s – alongside extra special care for people living with dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

The facility also offers respite and convalescence care, for short term stays and supporting people coming out of hospital, as well as palliative and end of life care.

Lounge area at Elderflower Grange care home on Orphanage Road / Image suppiled by Care UK

Elderflower Care Home is operated by Care UK, which started out as Anglia Secure Homes in 1982 and changed its name to Care UK in 1994. One of the largest housing and residential care providers in the country, Care UK run over 160 care home across the UK – including

In 2025, Care UK was recognised by winning over 30 industry awards both nationally and regionally, including ‘Care Home Group (Large)’ at the 2025 National Care Awards for the second year running.

Landscaped gardens at Elderflower Grange care home on Orphanage Road / Image suppiled by Care UK

The organisation was also the winner of both the Nursing Times and Caring UK awards in 2023, and was recognised by the Care Home Awards ‘gold winner’ in their ‘Outstanding Larger Group Care Provider’ category.

Elderflower Grange will further be celebrating their official launch event on Thursday 2 July, with local legend and Aston Villa football star Tony Morely as the event’s special guest.

To make a booking to view Elderflower Care Home, or for more information on the facility, visit www.careuk.com/care-homes/elderflower-grange-erdrington or call the facility directly on (0121) 756 8225.

 

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Helping mum and baby thrive – infant mortality project succeeding

Spurgeons showcase event and community baby shower at Lakeside Children’s Centre / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

A showcase event celebrating the early impact of the North Locality Infant Mortality project was held last Thursday (21 May).

Just seven months into its ambitious 18-month journey, the project is already proving to be a lifeline for expectant mothers across Erdington.

Supporting Mums

Funded by the Fairer Future’s Fund and overseen by Witton Lodge Community Association, the initiative is being delivered by Spurgeons. It provides holistic support for the mental, emotional and physical wellbeing of mothers during the most transformative chapter of their lives.

To celebrate its early success, Spurgeons hosted a vibrant showcase event and community baby shower at its base at Lakeside Children’s Centre. Local partners including Birmingham and Solihull NHS Trust Integrated Care Board (ICB) alongside midwives, breastfeeding support groups and pregnancy specialists were in attendance.

Spurgeons showcase event and community baby shower at Lakeside Children’s Centre / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Formal presentations were given by Jonathan Wiggin, Head of Services at Spurgeons, Phil Johns, Chief Strategy Officer at ICB and Waheed Saleem, Head of Programmes and Partnerships at Witton Lodge Community Association.

Infant Mortality Rates

“Infant mortality was identified as a key priority for the North Locality through the co-production process that Witton Lodge Community Association led last year,” said Waheed.

“Working with partners and local communities, we developed a targeted project to support high-risk pregnant women in the three Erdington wards with the highest infant mortality rates.

Waheed Saleem talking at Spurgeons showcase event and community baby shower at Lakeside Children’s Centre / Photograph supplied by WLCA

“The project provides one-to-one support through pregnancy support workers, helping women to reduce key risks during pregnancy. This includes encouraging early attendance at appointments, supporting women to stop smoking, helping with weight management, and providing practical financial support for essential everyday items that can make a real difference for new mothers and their babies.

“We are pleased to be working with Spurgeons to deliver this important project. As the Family Hub in Erdington, Spurgeons is well placed to continue supporting mothers and families beyond pregnancy, offering a wide range of services for children, young people and families up to the age of 19.

“The project has been supported by MMP GP Partnerships, midwives, health visitors and community groups. This joined-up approach is vital if we are to tackle infant mortality, reduce inequalities and ensure families receive the right support at the right time.”

Impressive Early Impact

The project is achieving a good level of success with its impact and reach already returning impressive numbers, such as:

  • 45 individuals received Health & Wellbeing Support (including breastfeeding & morning sickness advice)
  • 57 community sessions delivered including baby & antenatal groups and baby showers
  • 72 individuals received Benefits & Welfare Support including advice around baby banks, food bank referrals and supplying baby essentials
  • 25 individuals supported by the Safer Sleep Scheme
  • 61 women now feeling more confident with their parenting skills
  • 37 travel vouchers issued to support attendance to antenatal appointments
  • 60 women received postnatal support to help reduce feelings of isolation and boost confidence
  • 78 women have reduced stress and anxiety following support from Pregnancy Support Workers

Natalie Haymes, Community Liaison Lead and Pregnancy Support Manager for Spurgeons in Erdington, said: “By fostering a network of care that addresses everything from emotional resilience to physical health, we are not just supporting individuals we are building a fairer, healthier future for the next generation of our community.”

To find out more about the great work being delivered by Spurgeons in the local community please visit their website HERE.

For details on support activities being delivered at the Witton Lakes Eco Hub, click HERE.

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: Celebrating Linda and those who hold our communities together

(L-R) WLCA Chair Linda Hines MBE and WLCA Chief Officer Afzal Hussaon by sponsored Bulls in the City statue

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Perry Common Community Hall was recently filled with warmth, laughter, and togetherness to mark Linda Hine’s 75th birthday. Many of us know that Linda Hines MBE (to give her full title), as Chair, has been the heart and backbone of Witton Lodge Community Association for over three decades.

Linda is among those committed people who work tirelessly to improve their neighbourhoods and bring communities together.

Linda’s remarkable journey began with her standing with neighbours to keep their community together during the demolition and redevelopment of their homes; and helping to establish Witton Lodge Community Association. It is powerful reminder of what is possible when local people unite behind a shared purpose.

Across our communities, there are others like Linda: residents, volunteers, staff and local leaders who give their time and care to support others. They organise activities, listen, provide services, and create spaces where people feel safe, valued, and connected.

In an increasingly fractured world, where pressures on communities continue to grow, this work has never been more important. These everyday acts of leadership and solidarity build trust, strengthen relationships, and keep our neighbourhoods and communities connected and resilient.

Their impact can be seen in thriving community spaces, opportunities for young people, and the sense of belonging that brings people together.

(L-R) Framed picture of WLCA Chief Officer Afzal Hussain and WLCA Chair Linda Hines MBE at gala event

As we celebrate Linda’s contribution, we also salute those who are actively playing their part. If you’re inspired to make a difference, now is the time to get involved.

Whether it’s volunteering your time, supporting a local initiative, or simply checking in on a neighbour, every action counts in building stronger communities.

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.

Click on the image below to read Witton Lodge Community Association’s COMMUNITY ANCHORS news, first published in the May to June ’26 Erdington Local newspaper.  

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Why do we take young people on residentials? The WHY of Youth Work

Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) on residential with young people / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Steph Porter, Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

Let me take you back to your first school residential… mounting nerves about a night away from your mom, brewing excitement about the quantity of Haribo you’re going to eat at 11pm and the all-nighter with your dorm room buddies, anticipation of the ‘leap of faith’ which your older brother told you is a death wish, all whilst wondering if you have as much pocket money as your friend, Michael, for the gift shop, where you hope to buy a massive pencil with the camp logo on.

I’ve been running residentials for the last four years and I must tell you, they haven’t changed much! At UDB, it is a crucial part of our work in the community to give our children and young people the opportunity to go away.

As a youth worker, I love connecting with young people outside of their normal contexts because they often let their guards down in a different way to a normal drop-in or mentoring session.

Giving them a spare toothbrush when they forget theirs (frequent), needing a pep-talk pre-kayaking, finding them something different to eat when they don’t like the dinner (also frequent) are all relational luxuries when you’re away together.

We love doing life with the people we work with, and residentials are a wonderful display of this.

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: Building affordable homes across Erdington and Minworth

Representaives from The Pioneer Group and Seddon at Burcote Road development / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group

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

As a community-focussed organisation, Castle Vale will always be at the heart of everything we do. Our roots are here, and with the vast majority of our homes based on the Vale, our commitment to both our tenants and local residents remains as strong as ever.

You may have seen that we’re beginning work on two new housing developments nearby, in Erdington and Minworth.

While they sit just a five-minute drive from Castle Vale, they give us an opportunity to respond to the growing need for affordable homes in our wider neighbourhood. For us, it’s about building the right homes in the right places, while staying true to our purpose and values and continuing to invest in our local communities.

We know that Castle Vale is more than just where we provide housing, it’s a community.

That sense of community extends beyond our homes too. Castle Vale Stadium continues to be a place where people come together, whether through sport, events or shared activities, and it plays a vital role in bringing people of all ages together.

Alongside this, The Sanctuary offers a wide range of support, from Early Help and youth services to health and wellbeing programmes.

These services are there for our residents and the wider community alike, helping people access the support and guidance they need, when they need it most.

The Sanctuary on Tangmere Drive / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group

As we look ahead, our focus remains the same, supporting strong, connected communities and making a positive difference both on Castle Vale and the local area.

For more on The Pioneer Group visitwww.pioneergroup.org.uk

The Pioneer Group are key partners 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 May to June ’26 Erdington Local newspaper.  

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: The Pioneer Group announces two new social housing developments in Erdington and Minworth

Representatives from Seddon Housing Partnerships and The Pioneer Group at the Burcote Road development / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group

Words by The Pioneer Group

The Pioneer Group has announced plans to develop two new housing sites at Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive, delivering 36 new social rent homes as part of its wider commitment to providing high‑quality, affordable housing across North Birmingham.

Work on both sites has begun, marking an important step in Pioneer’s ambition to build the right homes in the right locations.

The Pioneer Group is the modern day community led housing association, managing over 2500 homes across Castle Vale and other areas, that grew from the old Housing Action Trust (HAT) established in 1993 – as part of Government led a nationwide initiative to give more local power to underprivileged housing estates across the country.

Other Housing Action Trusts were established in London, Liverpool, and Hull.

The Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive developments form part of Pioneer’s wider strategy and development programme, which aim to deliver around 250 new homes over the next five years, supporting housing need while maintaining a strong focus on quality, affordability and place‑making.

 

At Burcote Road in Erdington, Pioneer will deliver 10 new homes for social rent with construction undertaken by partner Seddon. The scheme is being built on land purchased from Birmingham City Council and will be supported by funding from Homes England and Pioneer, with Seddon appointed as build partner.

Located within Erdington Ward, the development aligns closely with Pioneer’s Development Plans, which focuses on placing appropriate schemes in well‑connected locations where they can best meet local housing needs.

Tony Clark, Regional Director, Seddon Housing Partnerships, said: “We’re proud to be partnering with The Pioneer Group to deliver much-needed affordable homes at Burcote Road. This development reflects our shared commitment to creating high-quality, sustainable homes that will make a lasting positive impact for local communities.”

At Lindridge Drive in Minworth, Pioneer have put spades in the ground on a 26‑home social rent development, delivered in partnership with Morro Partnerships.  The scheme will provide a mix of modern, high‑quality homes designed to support individuals, families and long‑term community sustainability.

Representatives from Morro Partnerships and The Pioneer Group at the Lindridge Drive development / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group

Tom Broadway, Managing Director (West Midlands), Morro Partnerships said: “Delivering sustainable homes and helping communities thrive is our core focus at Morro. Choosing timber frame construction for our first project with our partners at Pioneer will not only speed up delivery, but also ensure the homes are more energy-efficient and cost-effective for future residents.

He added: “Building with the future in mind is a responsibility we take seriously, and we are excited to be working with Pioneer to deliver much needed homes in the area.”

The Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive schemes are supported by Homes England funding, alongside Pioneer’s own private financing to ensure schemes remain both deliverable and financially sustainable. This also includes just over £1.4 million in funding from the West Midlands Combined Authority, which has enabled Pioneer to move from an affordable rent model to social rent, helping to keep rents as low as possible for new tenants.

The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson / Photograph supplied by The Pioneer Group (Copyright Phil Greig)

As an anchor organisation based in Castle Vale, Pioneer remains focussed on staying local, responsive and connected to the communities it serves.

While both Burcote Road and Lindridge Drive sit outside the Castle Vale estate, the developments reflect Pioneer’s commitment to using its strong local foundations to deliver affordable homes where they are most needed.

These projects also reflect Pioneer’s wider priorities to deliver great homes, support resilient communities and sustain the legacy of regeneration for future generations.

Simon Wilson, Chief Executive at The Pioneer Group, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing forward these two new developments, which represent another positive step in our long‑term commitment to delivering high‑quality social rent homes.”

He added: “By investing in the right sites, working with trusted partners and securing strong financial foundations, we can continue to meet housing need and support communities now and, in the years, ahead.”

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

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

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NEWS: “Humbling” first Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards celebrates winners at special gala evening

Awards on display at first Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards gala event / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

Words by Tracy Fisher

On 19 March, the first Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards gala event was held at Lift Greenwood (formerly Greenwood Academy).

Also known as the Hearts of Castle Vale Awards, the event was the culmination of a campaign to recognise individuals who work tirelessly to support the local community – as organised by local landlords and estate stakeholder, The Pioneer Group (TPG).

After weeks of public nominations and voting, the Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards winners were presented with their certificate, trophy, and badge in front of an audience of local residents, community groups, and invited guests – with Lift Greenwood Assistant Principal, Trevor Evans, and local resident Tai Colman hosting.

Lift Greenwood Assistant Principla Trevor Evans announcing winners at first Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards gala event / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

With all winners announced on the night, the audience was also made up of other hopefuls waiting to hear their name potentially called out.

The evening further presented a dance troupe performance from local youth group YoungStars, as well as a song by the winner of the 2025 Castle Vale’s Got Talent competition, Brooke Haynes.

The Pioneer Group launched the Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards on 26 January, with support from Nationwide Windows and Doors – who also support the Christmas celebrations on the estate.

TPG encouraged local residents to put forward names of individuals, groups, or organisations worthy of nomination for one of six categories available – reflecting their contribution to the local community.

Audience at first Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards gala event / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

Winners from each category were presented with their awards, followed by a video montage of why they deserved to win the accolade. For winners unable to attend the gala event a representative accepted the award on their behalf.

After her name was called out, Alice Rawlins, who won the Community Connector Award, told Castle Vale Local: “[I’m] stunned actually. I didn’t expect it at all. They were all sneaky, making videos and saying they were other things. So yeah, a big surprise”.

The Volunteer Award was awarded to Sonia Carr for her work in the Upcycle Café. She said: “It was a surprise for me, I didn’t think I would get one actually. But I’m really pleased and grateful to everybody who nominated for me.”

Skylar Orme-Joicey winning Young Ambassador Award / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

The youngest of the award winners was Skylar Orme-Joicey, who won the Young Ambassador Award. At just twelve years old, an inspiration for other young people in the Community, Skylar told Castle Vale Local: “It feels really good. I like helping the community, and winning awards”.

Laura Grigg, Community Hubs Manager from The Sanctuary Community Centre, who was a driving force behind the project, explained: “It’s been fabulous, been humbling to actually hear the stories, we’ve heard stories about things going on that we would never have known apart from this event.

“It truly shows, community is so strong on Castle Vale and just need to be rewarded for the hard work that they do”

Audience at first Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards gala event / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

She added: “We’re hoping to make it bigger and better next year; we started with six nominations this year… so we’re hoping to go all out next year and truly recognise everything that’s good.”

The full list of categories and winers for the first Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards are: Unsung Hero Award – Wayne Haynes, Duty to the Community Award – Lee Crofts, Good Neighbour Award – John Shearer, Young Ambassador Award – Skylar Orme-Joicey, Volunteer Award – Sonia Carr, Community Connector Award – Alice Rawlins.

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

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PICTURE GALLERY: Castle Vale Community Hearts Awards gala evening at Lift Greenwood / Photographs by Tracy Fisher

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: The upcoming elections

Simon Wilson – The Pioneer Group (TPG) Chief Executive Officer / Photograph by Phil Greig, supplied by TPG

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

As a registered social landlord, we do not hold or promote party‑political views. However, our work is shaped directly by government policy, so it is important to acknowledge that decisions taken at national and local levels influence the environment in which we operate and the services we are able to deliver.

Government policy becomes real through legislation and regulation, whatever party forms the administration. Issues such as the availability of good‑quality social housing, the safety and sustainability of our homes, and the extent to which tenants can influence decisions about allocations and services are all shaped by this wider national framework.

These topics continue to be central to public debate and will remain important throughout this year’s election cycle.

Birmingham’s upcoming all‑out local elections are expected to be closely watched, and while predicting outcomes is not my role, what I can say with certainty is that we will continue to focus on long‑term, constructive partnerships.

Our commitment is to work collaboratively with those elected, whichever party they represent, to secure the best outcomes for our tenants and the wider communities we serve.

We are proud of the positive working relationships we have developed with ward councillors across all areas where we have homes. These partnerships have supported investment, community initiatives and practical improvements that benefit local residents.

I would encourage everyone to use their vote, understand the issues, consider who best reflects your priorities, and take part. Local elections can be won and lost on small numbers so every vote really does count.

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 to find their focus with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Generic image of young people working in a classroom / Photograph taken from Adobe Stock Images

Words by Emma Winmill, Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

If you’ve got teenagers revising at the moment, you may recognise the pattern: procrastination, followed by long hours trying to catch up, and suddenly the whole house feels tense.

It might feel like the answer is to just work longer, but research suggests something different. Most of us concentrate best in short bursts of around 25 to 40 minutes, followed by a proper break.

This approach helps the brain process and retain information more effectively. By contrast, revising for hours without stopping often leads to overload, where much of what’s learned is quickly forgotten.

Breaks are not wasted time. Getting outside, moving around, or doing something enjoyable helps reset focus and reduce stress.

At Urban Devotion Birmingham, we see every young person as more than how they do at school. Exams matter, but they do not define who someone is or what they can become. Every young person has their own strengths, and part of our role is helping them recognise that.

So this exam season, aim for balance. Encourage steady revision, proper rest, and time to recharge. We will be there every weekday, providing spaces for young people to rest and reset. Visit www.urbandevotion.org/activities for details.

And remember, success is not just about results. It is also about being well, growing in confidence, and holding onto hope for what comes next.

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: From safety net to springboard – the Witton Lodge way

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

At Witton Lodge Community Association many of our services are aimed at providing support when life becomes unstable, and in recent years cost of living pressures has meant demand has never been greater.

Every day, residents come to us in need of urgent support: help with benefits and debt, energy costs, housing worries or some other challenge life has thrown up. These moments matter, but we don’t stop there.

As a community anchor, we provide practical help, advice, and human connection when people need it most. This support creates stability; it starts to restore confidence and gives people breathing space.

However, what I believe truly defines Witton Lodge, is what happens next.

From the outset, our services are designed to stabilise and then act as a springboard – crisis support can and does become a gateway to new possibilities: skills development, volunteering, employment, and enterprise opportunities.

We actively work with people to identify ambition as well as need, ensuring that immediate support is matched by hope and possibility.

This springboard approach came to life at our recent Youth Employment and Social Enterprise celebration event. The energy in the room reflected everything we stand for. Young people who had once needed support were stepping forward as future employees and entrepreneurs.

Local employers and partners saw first‑hand how investing in potential, not just qualifications, transforms lives and communities.  Our entrepreneurs and social enterprises were celebrated as proof that community‑led solutions can generate both purpose and prosperity.

In challenging times, safety nets are vital. But at Witton Lodge, we also believe in nurturing talent to help our communities thrive and flourish.

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.