Category: Uncategorized

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ERDINGTON POLICE: Keeping Erdington safe – A message from Seargent Claire Millard

Seargent Claire Millard from Erdingotn’s Neighbourhood Police Team / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police

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

Words by Seargent Claire Millard, Erdington Neighbourhood Police Team

Tackling anti-social behaviour on the High Street is one of our team’s top priorities – and as I’ve mentioned before on these pages, we’re continuing to work hard with our partners to find a solution and prevent it from happening.

This work has stepped up during the school holidays, and we’ve made sure to carry out regular, high-visibility patrols to reassure those who share our aim of making the High Street as safe and welcoming as possible.

Police questioning suspect in Erdington Town Centre / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police

These patrols include interaction with young people and business owners, and I’m pleased to have heard such positive feedback from locals that they are feeling safer on the High Street.

As ever, what’s important is for the local community to share any intelligence and information with us. Often, no matter how small the issue may seem, we can use this information to adapt our patrol plans and operations to make sure we’re having the maximum impact we can.

We know there’s more work to do on the High Street, and our work is continuing.

What I can guarantee is that we will continue to hold regular police surgeries and information events to offer you a chance to raise any concerns and share intelligence with us – and in turn our team will update you in more detail on how our policing plan.

Safer Towns Summer, which continues, allows us to focus even more on this vital area which we should all be proud of.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sergeant Claire Millard.

For more on the police and crime in Erdington visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/area/your-area/west-midlands/birmingham/erdington

You can also follow the Erdington police team on Twitter www.x.com/ErdingtonWMP

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OPINION: Jack Brookes, local campaigner for Reform UK in Erdington

Jack Brookes on the campaign trail in Erdington, during the 2022 by-election / Photograph supplied by Jack Brookes

Words by Jack Brookes

Hoist the colours! Kingstanding and other areas of Birmingham have fantastic displays of our flags; when Reform wins the locals next year and takes control of Birmingham City Council then I vow that, not only will we keep the flags up but, we will put up more flags. Birmingham, the heart of England, we have found our pride again and it will not go away.

The beautiful sight of our flags being flown all over the UK with pride. These peacefully patriotic acts of defiance against the globalist establishment reminds me of Belfast – where I attended university – except, this time we are all united (rising above sectarianism).

However, the current Labour-run Birmingham City Council has shown its true colours by cutting down our flags and condemning us patriots for putting up our flags. We are not fascists, we are patriots! If Birmingham City Council has a problem with the cross of Saint George or the Union flag because of “safety”, then they have to be consistent and take issue with the flying of LGBTQIA+ flags and Palestinian flags.

We must remember who sacrificed most for our flags: our veterans. We must put veterans to the front of the queue. One policy I am proposing is to repurpose unused parts of parks, such as Finchley Park, with allotments – priority allocation going to our veterans. We need to start digging for victory again.

The Councils may cut down our flags, but we will keep on raising more. Keep flying the flags.

To follow Jack Brookes on social media visit www.x.com/jack4erdington

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Securing community spaces for the future

The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson / Photograph by Phil Greig

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

One of the defining qualities of the Castle Vale community is its resilience. We’ve seen it time and again, whether during the Covid pandemic, when so many rallied to support their neighbours, or when local assets like the swimming pool and library were under threat.

The local charity Spitfire and dedicated volunteers stepped up, refusing to let these valuable community resources disappear.

We’re proud to have played our part in securing key community assets too. We secured a long-term lease on Castle Vale Stadium and have made significant investments to improve the facilities, including the addition of two 3G pitches.

We’re delighted to share that the Stadium’s finances are looking more sustainable than ever this year, helping to secure the future of sport in Castle Vale.

The Sanctuary, a hub for residents, young people, community, and faith groups, is also benefiting from investment from us. We’re creating more user-friendly, bookable spaces, giving the reception area a fresh look, and upgrading facilities to make it an even more welcoming and functional community space.

Community centres like The Sanctuary are vital, but they often require ongoing support to thrive, something we’re committed to providing.

If you’re looking for a venue for your business or social events, visit our websites to see what’s happening at The Stadium and The Sanctuary.

Together, we can keep all of Castle Vale’s assets viable and fit for the future.

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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OPINION: A message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Words by Paulette Hamilton MP

Paulette Hamilton MP by the Houses of Parliament / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

The first duty of any government is to keep its citizens safe. That’s why I’m proud this Labour Government is increasing defence investment 2.5% of GDP by 2027, the biggest sustained boost since the Cold War.

This commitment strengthens national security and ensures we have the capabilities to protect the UK and our allies.

But security isn’t just about national defence, it’s about keeping our communities safe too. After 14 years of Conservative neglect, our armed forces are stretched thin, and crime and anti-social behaviour are rising. Undoing the damage of the past will take time, but Labour is committed to rebuilding Britain and delivering for our communities.

Locally, I took a firm stand against an HMO application on Mason Road, leading a campaign backed by 386 residents. Birmingham City Council rejected the application, sending a clear message that enough is enough.

HMOs bring increased crime, put pressure on local services, and undermine initiatives like Operation Fearless, which aims to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

I joined West Midlands Police for an all-out day on Erdington High Street. With a new Public Spaces Protection Order in place and Operation Fearless making an impact, traders and shoppers are seeing a real difference.

I also held a coffee morning in Kingstanding, where residents raised crime and anti-social behaviour as top concerns. I’ll keep working with the police and local partners to tackle these issues.

From community campaigns to coffee mornings, I will keep fighting for a safer Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott.

For more on Paulette Hamilton MP for Erdington visit www.paulettehamilton.org

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DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors – as identified against each article – and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent, or the view or positions of Erdington Local.

If you wish to contact Erdington Local about any comments or contributions made, please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Barclays Digital Van offering free digital support and advice to Castle Vale community

Words by The Pioneer Group

Barclays Digital Van offering support and advice to local residents / Pic supplied by Barclays UK

The Pioneer Group are excited to welcome the Barclays Digital Van to the Castle Vale community, bringing free digital support and advice to residents across the estate.

Especially these days, it is increasingly important for everyone to have access to digital tools, whether it’s for job searches, staying in touch with family, or learning new skills. That’s why The Pioneer Group are working with Barclays to bring this service right to the doorstep of people living on Castle Vale.

The Barclays Digital Van is coming to Castle Vale on Wednesday, 26 February, offering essential digital support and guidance.

Join the team at 2 Renfrew Square, Birmingham, B35 6JT, from 10am to 1pm – to access free internet, digital skills training, and expert advice on using technology to stay connected, find job opportunities, and access online services.

What’s on offer at the Barclays Digital Van:

  • Employment Support – Help with CV building, job applications, and interview preparation.
  • Healthcare Access – Guidance on using telehealth services to connect with doctors.
  • Social Inclusion – Support to help residents stay in touch with loved ones online.
  • Free Internet Access – High-speed WiFi to assist with job searches, education, and more.
  • Digital Skills Training – Learn computer basics and improve online safety.
    Tech Support – Get help with devices and troubleshooting issues.

The Pioneer Group are committed to making sure local residents have the tools they need to feel confident online.

Whether you’re just starting out or need extra support, many across the Castle Vale community can benefit from this fantastic service.

Renfrew Square is situated next to St Gerrard’s Church, on the corner of Yatesbury Avenue and Turnhouse Road – click here for direction from Google Maps.

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

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

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NEWS: Quick arrest made after “disorder” on Erdington High Street puts man in “life threatening condition”

Words by Erdington Local editorial team / Pics taken from archive

Police have made a quick arrest after a vicious knife attack during a “disorder” on Erdington High Street put a man in hospital in a “life threatening condition.”

Officers were called an incident near Six Ways Island at 5.10pm yesterday (Thursday, 20 June) following reports of fighting at the top end of the High Street.

Arriving at the scene, officers found a man with knife wounds who was immediately rushed to hospital for emergency treatment.

A few hours after the stabbing a man was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent and possessing a bladed article.

An immediate investigation began, with officers knocking on doors and closing parts of the High Street off the public. Parts of the busy retail area remained cordoned off overnight as forensic officers continued to collect evidence.

A statement from West Midlands Police said: “We’ve arrested a man after being called to reports of a disorder on Erdington High Street at about 5.10pm today.

“Officers attended and found a man who had suffered a knife injury. He was taken to hospital where we understand he’s in a life-threatening condition.

“A short time later officers arrested a man on suspicion of wounding with intent and possession of a bladed article.

“Part of Erdington High Street has been cordoned off as we remain at the scene, with forensic experts examining the area.”

The police added: “Officers are reviewing CCTV and carrying out door-to-door enquiries as the investigation continues.

“Anyone with information or footage can contact us via Live Chat or by calling 101, quoting log 3798 of 20 June.”

The stabbing on 20 June is yet another violent incident on Erdington High Street this month, as the once busy throughfare becomes more and more synonymous with crime and anti-social behaviour.

On 7 June another man was found with “life threatening injuries” after officers discovered the victim near Harrison Road during a routine patrol.

Last Wednesday, 12 June, another man was arrested in connection with a robbery and reports were made a man seen “threatening people with a hammer”.

Following the attack yesterday, social media was flooded with residents concerned about rising crime in the wake of another violent attack.

Eileen Monaghan said: “Yet another stabbing on the High St. When are the authorities going to go something about the open drug dealing and drinking on the High Street?”

She added: “There is a PSPO Public Space Protection order on the High Street yet not enforced. Why not?

“Are the police are too afraid the walk the High St or is there too much paperwork for them to fill out?”

West Midlands Police have asked the anyone with information or footage that might help their investigation into the attack on 20 June can contact the force via Live Chat – or by calling 101 and quoting log 3798 of 20 June.

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Students from Wilson Stuart and Kingsthorne collaborate on Story Massage Programme

Words and pics supplied by Wilson Stuart School

In a strong display of collaboration and innovation, primary students from Wilson Stuart School have teamed up with Kingsthorne Primary mainstream school to explore the benefits of the Story Massage Programme.

The Story Massage Programme, a unique approach that melds the benefits of positive touch with the creative power of words, has captivated the attention of educators and students alike.

Ten simple massage strokes, each accompanied by a descriptive name and symbol, serve as the cornerstone of this initiative – ensuring accessibility for learners of all ages and abilities.

Rachael Griffiths, Director of Research and Innovation at Wilson Stuart, underscored the multifaceted objectives of the project. “Through the project, we aim to foster active listening, cultivate positive relationships, and forge connections between mainstream and special school settings,” she remarked.

“Moreover, we seek to enhance non-verbal communication skills, refine language proficiency through storytelling, boost confidence levels, and, above all, ensure an environment brimming with joy and laughter.”

This collaborative endeavour not only demonstrates the commitment of both institutions to inclusive practices but also exemplifies the transformative potential of partnership in education.

As students embark on this journey of exploration and discovery, they are not only acquiring valuable skills but also laying the foundation for a more inclusive and empathetic society.

With each stroke and story shared, these young learners are not just engaging in massage; they are weaving a tapestry of understanding, compassion, and friendship that transcends boundaries and enriches lives.

For more on Wilson Stuart School visit www.wilsonstuart.co.uk  

Wilson Stuart School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

To find out more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Hive students take part in trainee teachers conference

Words by Zain Khan, pics supplied by the Hive College

We were asked to take part in a conference for trainee teachers at Wolves Uni on Friday 3 May.

We sent five students to help with the refreshments for the delegates and then five students (including two alumni) were the keynote speakers for the event; sharing their educational journeys and the career aspirations followed by some tips for teachers with students with special educational needs.

The students chose to walk on to stage to ‘When the Going Gets Tough’! They all did fantastically well and were incredibly inspiring to us all. I was so proud to hear back how much they have achieved against so much adversity.

The organiser of the conference commented: “The aim of yesterday was to put good expert staff and talented pupils central to the focus and I really hope that came across.

“As a team, it’s the ethos that we are reinforcing all the time with our trainees and just look to work with people who have the same shared values.

“Good people, doing great work, for pupils who deserve every opportunity in life.”

They added: “EIAT as a trust is an absolute joy to work with. We see a lot of schools and trusts on a yearly basis and we can say, genuinely, that there is a clear connection and shared ethos in the staff we come across within Wilson Stuart, Mayfield, Queensbury, and the Hive.”

For more on The Hive College visit: www.hivecollege.org.uk

The Hive College is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

To find out more about going BACK TO SCHOOL please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Beautiful butterflies released by EYFS pupils at Marsh Hill Primary

Words and pics supplied by Marsh Hill Primary School

This term at Marsh Hill primary school, our EYFS pupils have been learning all about life cycles and nature.

The children have been caring for caterpillars in the classroom, nurturing them and keeping them safe, and have been excited to look after the insects.

The life cycle of the caterpillar will move from the larva stage, growing to be a caterpillar, through to it forming a chrysalis, and then transforming into a beautiful butterfly.

For the past few weeks, the children have been observing the caterpillars and have talked to their friends and staff about how they have changed, especially on how much bigger they got!

Then last week, there was huge excitement when the EYFS pupils spotted the chrysalis shaking – and finally the children were very lucky to see a couple of the butterflies emerge from their chrysalis!

This week the children released the butterflies into the wild. They have had so much fun and look forward to learning more about the wonders of nature.

For more on Marsh Hill Primary School visit www.marshill.bham.sch.uk

Marsh Hill Primary School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

To find out more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Greenwood Academy Live celebrates over 100 inspiring performances

Words and pics supplied by Greenwood Academy

For just over a year, students at Greenwood Academy (GWA) have been showcasing their talents in a special regular event called GWA Live.

Through GWA Live, young people at the Castle Vale secondary school have been developing their performance skills on stage and building confidence, whether they are just starting out or are more seasoned performers.

Students are involved off stage too, getting to work on operating lighting, sound, and visual equipment for the productions.

The monthly events are championed by Assistant Head Teacher Trevor Evans, who has led the school’s performing arts programme for many years – helping to produce some spectacular school productions and talent showcase events.

Mr Evans hopes the GWA Live events will encourage more self-belief and cohesion in and out of the classroom.

“GWA Live also embodies ‘The Greenwood Way’,” told Mr Evans, “an approach that we are rolling out encompassing all areas of school, instilling a sense of belonging for all pupils and making school a great place to be not only between 9am and 3pm but beyond.

“It’s about supporting, encouraging, and building our school community.”

From April, the GWA Live events will be expanding to include a headline act each month and to offer further support from the school’s Community Team – helping budding artists to develop their performance skills and live presentation.

For more on Greenwood Academy visit www.greenwoodacademy.org

Greenwood Academy is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

To find out more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com