Tag: Birmingham City Council

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Erdington Arts Forum – celebrating creativity in Erdington and beyond

Words by Hema Chumber

Musicians perform at Evening of Creativity / Pic supplied by Erdington Arts Forum

Erdington Arts Forum (EAF) has been part of Birmingham’s cultural landscape since 2011, providing a platform to support and showcase local Erdington artists – as well as bringing international artists to perform and work across the North Birmingham constituency.

Established as part of the city’s commitment to local arts, alongside nine other arts forums stretching from Sutton Coldfield to Northfield, the Erdington Arts Forum engages with the local creative community both through the opportunities it provides for people to participate in the arts and the regular programme of events it hosts.

Poet performs at Evening of Creativity / Pic supplied by Erdington Arts Forum

One of the EAF’s most recognised and longstanding activities are the Evening of Creativity showcases – a monthly smorgasbord of arts, music, poetry, and community activism, held on the third Friday of every month at Oikos Café on Erdington High Street.

Supported by hundreds of regular attendees, and thousands more watching the EAF’s live stream across the world, the Evening of Creativity events have been running consecutively for nearly eight years – having never missed a month since launching back in June 2017.

The Evening of Creativity even moved to a secure location in Erdington and conducted socially distanced live stream events, maintaining its  monthly schedule throughout the pandemic.

(l-r) Jobe Baker Sullivan and Paul Withers live streaming an Evening of Creativity event during Covid-19 lockdown / Pic by Ed King

Earning a solid reputation as a platform for creative expression in Birmingham, the Evening of Creativity events have featured many notable local acts over the years, including four Birmingham Poet Laureates and the CBSO players, as well as an array of touring and international artists.

While it primarily focuses on the local creative community, the EAF’s network extends far beyond Erdington and Birmingham – fostering links with creatives and performers from across the globe.

In recent years, the EAF has welcomed many international acts into Erdington, including Sicilian pop singer Manuel Cangemi, Portuguese violinist ‘The Tiny Violinist’, Parisian guitarist Gael Guelda, and Indonesian musician Aji Sang Ali.

These international collaborations reflect the group’s dedication to bringing a range of cultural perspectives to Birmingham.

Local artists display and sell work at Evening of Creativity / Pic supplied by Erdington Arts Forum

The EAF is also committed to ensuring any events they promote remain accessible, offering quality performances for people who may not be able to afford arts events elsewhere in the city. Pay as you feel tariffs or donations are also offered as a way to both support the events financially and keep it accessible to a wider audience.

Erdington Arts Forum has also been supporting local filmmakers in Erdington, as across the wider city the nascent broadcast content industry is seeing more investment that ever before – following the achievements and ambitions of content creators such as Steven Knight.

The EAF recently joined with St Barnabas Church in Erdington to finance a short film from local poet and spoken word artist Joe Cook, celebrating the cultural legacy of the North Birmingham suburb.

Joe Cook performing Odeington for film by Chris Neophytou – Pic by Grant Archer

Odeington was written and recorded by Cook, who was born and raised in Stockland Green, with the accompanying film shot by Erdington filmmaker Chris Neophytou. It was filmed in and aroudn Erdington and released in October 2024, in line with the St Barnabas bicentennial.

Looking ahead to 2025, Erdington Arts Forum has a busy schedule with several events lined up, including the return of its annual ‘Triangle Night’ at the February Evening of Creativity.

Held annually, the night will be headlined by local Brazilian music ensemble Forró Tempo, and each artist appearing at will incorporate the triangle into their performance.

Along with the accordion and zabumba (a bass drum), the triangle makes up an essential part of the traditional Brazilian music Forró – which dominates the cultural landscape on Northeastern Brazil and beyond.

Jobe Sullivan, Coordinator of Erdington Arts Forum, told Erdington Local: “All of us here at Erdington Arts Forum are very proud to host events like these and bring together local residents from the area and wider neighbourhoods.”

He added: “We have many bookings in the diary for the year, which we are particularly excited about, such as Forró dance classes, live music, poetry and other arts from across Birmingham City. Erdington will continue to be our focus, and our Arts Forum will continue to be our point of pride.”

Odeington – by Joe Cook / Commissioned by Erdington Arts Forum and St Barnabas Church

Erdington Arts Forum present ‘Triangle Night at the next Evening of Creativity on 21 February – held at Oikos Café, Erdington High Street. For more information and online ticket sales visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/triangle-night-evening-of-creativity-february-2025

To get involved with Erdington Arts Forum please email [email protected] or call 07858 219 629.

Follow Erdington Arts Forum on social media at www.facebook.com/ErdingtonArt or www.instagram.com/erdingtonarts

Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.

If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: [email protected]

 

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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.

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: InkWell – a new writing group supporting recovery through expression

Words by Hema Chumber

(l-r) Ian Simmonds and Portland Jones with InkWell writing group at Oikos Cafe / Pic supplied by InkWell

In August 2024, Inkwell, a writing group aimed at helping individuals in recovery from trauma, addiction, and life-changing events was launched in Erdington.

The group was founded by Portland Jones, who faced challenges following a stroke that left her with hidden disabilities,  and Ian Simmonds, who recovered from a brain stem stroke and addiction.

Both founders shared similar experiences of struggling and recovery, with writing becoming their support tool for self-expression. Inkwell’s approach is centred on providing a supportive environment for people to express their thoughts, feelings and stresses through writing.

Pic taken from Adobe Stock Images

The group meets every other Saturday at Oikos Café on Erdington High Street, offering people the chance to share their experiences, journal or simply write for themselves, in a relaxed environment.

Inkwell has quickly grown, attracting a diverse range of participants from various backgrounds, all of whom are in recovery. The group’s organisers have been surprised by the success of the initiative, noting that many members have found the writing sessions to be comforting, and helpful in terms of personal growth and healing.

Ian shared: “Writing helped me to process my thoughts and emotions in a way in which nothing else could. We wanted to create a space where people feel safe and that they are not being judged, so others in recovery could use writing for the same purpose.

“We have seen how powerful writing can be, as a tool for healing. It has been very rewarding, to say the least, to watch people to use it and connect with their thoughts in an honest way.”

Pic taken from Adobe Stock Images

Portland added: “It is not about the skill of writing itself, like having the perfect grammar or structure – it is about getting people to put pen to paper about their emotions, and offering them a chance to reflect.

“We have had one person who has joined our group since the beginning, and told Ian and I that this setting has allowed them to express their feelings in a way they couldn’t before. The group has given them, and others, space to reflect and connect with others.”

Alongside its regular sessions, Inkwell is planning to launch an online magazine and hopes to publish an anthology of work written by individuals in the group.

This will provide the writers with a platform to showcase their work and experiences, as well as raise awareness within the community about the role creative writing can play in recovery.

The group is also considering expanding to offer online meetings later in the year, in response to increasing interest from people in Erdington’s neighbouring areas.

InkWell will be running writing sessions at Oikos Café on 8 February and 22 February, with more session booked in the months afterwards.

For more information about Inkwell and upcoming sessions, please visit www.inkwellwritinginrecovery.com or email [email protected]

Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.

If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: [email protected]

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Erdington Court Bowls Club – a century of community spirit

Words by Hema Chumber

Club members on outdoor bowling green / Pic supplied by Erdington Court Bowls Club

Celebrating its centenary year, Erdington Bowls Club is a cornerstone of community life in Erdington.

Founded as a multi-sport club, the group introduced bowls in 1925 and has since been an integral part of the local community. The club is a welcoming space for all ages and abilities, serving as a hub for health and social connection.

The roots of Erdington Bowls Club trace back to the Erdington Methodist Youth Club, which originally established the organisation. In 1976, it moved to its current location on Bowling Green Close, becoming a self-standing charity. Since then, the club has remained dedicated to improving the lives of local residents, and its role as a community asset has only grown.

The club’s mission, outlined when it became independent in 1976, is to ‘provide or assist in the provision of facilities for recreation and other leisure-time occupation for the inhabitants of Erdington and the wider neighbourhood.’

Club members on indoor bowling green / Pic supplied by Erdington Court Bowls Club

As a charitable trust, Erdington Bowls Club is run entirely by volunteers, focussing on creating an inclusive environment, ensuring everyone can benefit from its facilities.

It has become more involved in the community in the recent years. It now offers two ‘Warm Welcome Spaces’ where people can come to relax and meet others. There are also ‘Bowl for Health’ sessions that take place, which help people with Parkinson’s disease, people recovering from brain injuries, and adults with special needs.

These sessions help people to stay active and socialise, improving their mental and physical health in a supportive environment. One-on-one coaching is available to anyone who would like to try playing bowls for the first time.

Club members with Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton / Pic supplied by Erdington Court Bowls Club

Erdington Bowls Club also has several mobility aids available to help people with physical challenges take part in the club’s activities. It has even received national praise for its efforts to making bowling available to everyone. Looking ahead, the club will be the new home of the Aston Unity Cricket Club in 2025.

Ray Woods, Marketing Officer and Trustee at Erdington Court Bowls Club, told: “What makes the club particularly special are its facilities. It has both an outdoor green space for bowling and a large indoor arena, which is the only one of its kind in North Birmingham.

“The indoor space allows the club to host games and events all-year round, regardless of the weather. Over 150 people enjoy playing bowls in this facility, for either fun or serious competition.”

Birmingham Council Leader Cllr John Cotton at ECBC / Pic supplied by Erdington Court Bowls Club

Ray added: “We welcome both new members, and anyone who would like to get more exercise, learn a new sport, and meet new people.

“Spending too much time at home, or sitting down, is not the best for health, so why not pop along and have a tour?”

For more on Erdington Court Bowls Club visit www.erdingtoncourtbowlsclub.org.uk or their Facebook page @ErdingtonBowlsClub

Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.

If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: [email protected]

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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.

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OPINION: A message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Words by Paulette Hamilton MP

Paulette Hamilton MP at the official launch of Operation Feareless at Villa Park / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

I’m thrilled to kick off the new year by sharing some exciting updates about our amazing communities across Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott.

After years of relentless campaigning, I’m proud to announce that we’ve secured £880,000 for Operation Fearless through the proceeds of crime funding, headed up by Simon Foster, Labour’s Police and Crime Commissioner.

This initiative is a game-changer for tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, breathing new life into Erdington High Street – the beating heart of our community. Leading this campaign has been an absolute honour, and working with local residents, traders, the police, and the council has truly shown what we can achieve when we work together.

While this funding is a major step forward, it’s just the start of our journey to transform the high street. I remain committed to making our high streets a safe, welcoming, and inspiring place for everyone.

Paulette Hamilton MP and young people with Labour’s Minister for the Department for Work and Pensions, Alison McGovern MP, at Witton Lodge Community Association / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

Another highlight was welcoming Alison McGovern MP, Labour’s Minister for the Department for Work and Pensions, to Erdington. During her visit, she engaged with young people at the Witton Lodge Community Association and joined discussions with the North Birmingham Economic Recovery Board, which I proudly chair.

We also visited the Erdington Jobcentre to hear from work coaches about their experiences in helping local residents into employment.

Erdington is truly making its mark, attracting vital funding and national attention. These achievements reflect the strength of our community and our shared determination to create a better and safer future for all.

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

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OPINION: A message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Words supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

Paulette Hamilton MP attending Remembrance Day event at Abbey Primary School / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

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

Last month has been one of celebration, remembrance, and important parliamentary debates. I was delighted to join the 30th anniversary celebrations of Witton Lodge Community Association, a cornerstone of our community.

Their remarkable achievements over three decades are a testament to the strength and power of what local communities can achieve by working together.

On Remembrance Day, I had the privilege of joining Abbey Primary School for a heartfelt ceremony to honour those who gave their lives for our freedoms. Their moving tribute reminded us of the sacrifices that form the foundation of our liberties today.

In Parliament, the Assisted Dying Bill sparked an emotional debate. After much thought, I voted against the Bill, with 70% of the constituents who contacted me urging the same. As a former NHS nurse, I firmly believe in the dignity and value of every life.

Paulette Hamilton MP in Westminster, London / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

I remain deeply concerned about introducing such a law, particularly when our NHS is already overstretched. I am committed to championing improved palliative care, working with Hospice UK, Birmingham Hospice, and others to ensure no one is left without the support they need at the end of life.

November also marked 50 years since the Birmingham Pub Bombings, a heartbreaking chapter in our city’s history. I have written to the Home Secretary, calling for justice for the victims and their families.

As we approach the festive season, I wish everyone in Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

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

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OPINION: A message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Words and pics supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

Paulette Hamilton MP for Erdington, BIrmingham, in Westminster / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

(Ed’s note – this column was written for the Erdington Local printed edition and first published on 15.11.24)

At the end of October, the Chancellor delivered the autumn budget – the first under a Labour government in 14 years. After over a decade of Conservative mismanagement, we’re finally taking steps to rebuild Britain and restore faith in our economy.

This budget focuses on the issues that matter most: fixing the NHS, raising wages, supporting our schools, and strengthening our communities – all without increasing taxes on working people.

So, what does this mean for Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale and South Oscott?

First, the increase in the National Living Wage will benefit thousands locally, putting more money in the pockets of hardworking families.

Our NHS will receive a £25.6 billion boost over the next two years, ensuring more appointments and better care for all. Schools will see a £2.3 billion increase in funding, 6,500 more teachers, and a £30 million investment in free breakfast clubs, ensuring every child starts the day ready to learn.

To tackle crime, we’re ending the neglect of low-value shoplifting and other petty crimes slipping through the cracks.

This budget funds 13,000 more neighbourhood officers and PCSOs, so our streets and local traders – like those at Erdington High Street, Slade Road and Kingstanding Precinct – will be safer. And with £500 million to fix potholes, our roads will finally see the improvements they deserve.

This budget fixes the foundations to deliver change, with working people and local communities at its heart. It’s the reset our economy and country have needed.

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

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OPINION: A message from Paulette Hamilton, MP for Erdington

Words and pics supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP

Paulette Hamilton MP at community meeting

It’s been another busy month across Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale and South Oscott, despite the Parliament recess for conference season.

I have had the opportunity to visit some of our amazing community groups, such as Northside Welcome Centre and Growth Path, who do incredible work supporting local people.

Recently, I held my regular Erdington High Street meeting, where I met with residents, traders, Birmingham City Council representatives, and the police to discuss ongoing efforts to address the issues plaguing Erdington High Street.

During this meeting, I also shared the results of my survey, which highlighted the main concerns of residents and their suggestions for improvements. The full survey results are available on my website – www.paulettehamilton.org

Paulette Hamilton MP at meeting with local police

I am pleased to report that, as part of Operation Skybridge in Erdington, the police have successfully removed drugs from the streets and made several arrests. This is a welcome step forward in our fight against crime.

Additionally, I recently hosted the Kingstanding Crime Conference with the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster and local police. Residents voiced their concerns about crime and antisocial behaviour, and I am delighted to see that Kingstanding residents are now exploring local initiatives to support our collective efforts.

Addressing crime and antisocial behaviour remains a top priority for me. I am committed to working closely with our partners, the police, and residents to ensure our community remains safe and our neighbourhoods secure.

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

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OPINION: Erdington Cllr Robert Alden, Leader of Birmingham Conservatives

Words by Erdington Ward Cllr Robert Alden – Leader of Birmingham Conservatives

L-R Cllr Moore, Cllr Alden – Erdington Ward, Conservatives / Pic by Ed King

Cllr Gareth Moore and myself have been working with residents to try and improve road safety in a number of areas across Erdington Ward over the last year.

As part of that work, we raised at the last Council meeting the need for a number of improvements to take place including average Speed Cameras on the Chester Road to tackle speeding drivers.

Over the last year we have had yellow lines installed at a number of locations around the ward to tackle dangerous parking at junctions to try and make them safer, including on Gravelly Lane (at the junction of Oliver and Somerset Roads) Fosseway Drive and Hayes Grove.

Following a number of serious incidents at the junction of Kingsbury Road and Spring Lane, we have had plans drawn up to make changes to the layout to try and slow the speed cars take the corner so to make it safer for residents.

These have been consulted on locally with nearby residents and earlier this year Gareth and I secured funding for them so they will be installed in the coming months.

In previous years the Council has given each ward a pot of funding for minor works road safety improvements locally to be made where residents want them.

Sadly, now the Council has axed funding from those wards which used it, while keeping it for wards that haven’t spent last year’s funding yet (mostly Labour Councillor wards). This will make it harder to keep local roads safe.

For more from Erdington’s Councillor Robert Alden and Councillor Gareth Jones visit www.facebook.com/ErdingtonNews