Category: Urban Devotion Birmingham

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Autumn – a season for kindness and consideration

Young people enjoying activities with Urban Devotion Birmingham 9UDB) / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

Autumn can be beautiful; crisp mornings, multicoloured leaves, watching the squirrels burying their nuts in the park.

But it also means colder nights, waking up and getting home in the dark… things that can bring a sense of heaviness. A sluggishness that suggests that humans, like bears, should be preparing to hibernate.

As nice as that sounds, it’s not a realistic option to all hunker down under our duvets until the daffodils start to appear. So what do we do?

At UDB we encourage the children and young people we work with to be aware of how they are feeling, the impact of those feelings on their behaviour, and develop skills to help them handle those feelings when they come. Something that’s good for all of us to do!

Something I’ve found helpful is saying aloud three things I’m thankful for each day.

For you it may be music, walking, art, gardening… all of us will have things that give us a boost when we are feeling low, and knowing what they are can really help in those moments.

It also helps to stay active and connected with others.

If you’re a child or young person, we host weekly spaces where you can connect, play, chill, and eat cheese toasties! All for free.

For young people and adults, being part of a team and making a positive contribution to our community can help our mental wellbeing and we’d love you to consider volunteering with UDB or another local organisation.

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham scan the QR code above 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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This article was first published in the Erdington Local monthly newspaper on 16 October.

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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: 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: 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: 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: 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: Celebrating the story of Easter with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Representation of boulder pulled back from Jesus’ tomb on Easter Sunday / Image from Adobe Stock Images

Words by Joel Goodlet, Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

On the very first Easter Sunday, John’s gospel tells us that a woman called Mary Magdalene was alone in the empty tomb where Jesus had been buried.

Two of Jesus’ more famous male followers have found the tomb empty, inspected the folded burial clothes and left with a story they don’t yet understand.

Mary can’t leave. John tells us that she walks into the tomb with tears in her eyes.

When the risen Jesus appears and calls her name, he stands between her and the world she has left behind to grieve him. She turns. In a society that didn’t accept women as legal witnesses, the Bible tells us God chose Mary as the first witness of the resurrection.

This year our TV screens and social media feeds have been filling up with news of violence and abuses of power. The peace of a struggling planet seems fragile. Perhaps you’ve felt like Mary. Perhaps you’ve turned your back on the world. Perhaps this Easter feels like a time of grief.

At UDB, we believe Easter Sunday’s story.

What Mary discovered remains true today. The hidden and the hurting have not been overlooked. There is a reason to turn your gaze back out to the world. It’s worth letting the sunrise show you how this day might look more hopeful.

There are so many sad, terrifying stories all around us in 2026. But there is another story, too. There is a hope that outlasts them all.

Happy Easter!

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: 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.