Tag: charity

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Hope flourishes through community action: transforming lives together

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

During the summer, we were delighted to welcome the local community and stakeholders to the former Erdington Baths, to take a peek inside and see first-hand the ambitious plans to transform it into an Enterprise Hub, breathing fresh life into this iconic, much-loved local building and inspiring the next generation of creators, makers and innovators.

The creation of the pocket park marks the first ‘visible’ step in this journey. Residents that have already seen the new park have commented how it has already changed the look and feel of the building and surrounding area.

A huge thanks to local residents and groups that have actively volunteered to not only shape plans but also helped to build and maintain the pocket park.

At Witton Lodge Community Association, we know that when local residents share their insights and experiences it leads to a deeper understanding of the issues and opportunities. And their active engagement leads to better decisions, and a genuine sense of ownership and pride in local projects services.

One way that you can influence what happens in your neighbourhood is to join Community Voice, a new influential forum that invites people of all ages, ethnicities and abilities from North Birmingham to share their lived experiences and discuss the issues that matter most.

Founded by Witton Lodge Community Association and developed by local residents, this initiative aims to enhance community life and improve service delivery by focusing on the needs and voices of the people.

To make your voice heard and be part of the decision-making process for your community contact us on 0121 382 1930 or email [email protected]

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Ladders of Opportunity bursary celebrates first recipients and announces second round of funding

Words and pics supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association

Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) recently honoured the inaugural recipients of the Ladders of Opportunity Bursary at a special celebration event.

Three exceptional young people, each with unique career and education aspirations ranging from sixth form progression to nursing to electrical engineering, were awarded £1,000 to support their educational journeys.

The bursary, established in memory of Erdington MP Jack Dromey and Stockland Green Councillor Penny Holbrook, aims to provide crucal support for young people in the Erdington area. Family and friends of the late MP and Councillor attended the event, witnessing firsthand the positive impact of their legacy.

Jo Townsend, Communications & Marketing Co-ordinator at WLCA, expressed pride in the recipients’ achievements, stating: “It’s inspiring to see these three exceptional young people taking their first steps towards their dreams, and we’re proud to play a part in their success stories.”

The selection panel, comprising representatives from WLCA, IM Properties, Pioneer Group, BMet, and Urban Devotion, looks forward to providing ongoing mentorship and career guidance to the successful applicants.

Building on this success, WLCA is pleased to announce the opening of applications for a second round of funding.

Young people aged 16-25 living in the Erdington Constituency with a household income under £25,000 are encouraged to apply.

Key details for the second round:

– Eligibility: Ages 16-25, residing in Erdington Constituency with a household income under £25,000

– Bursary amount: Up to £1,000

– Application deadline: 6pm on September 30, 2024

Interested individuals can find more information or start their application by visiting the WLCA bursary page https://wittonlodge.org.uk/2024/07/17/bursary/

Alternatively they can email Jo Townsend at [email protected] – or by phone WLCA on 0121 382 1930.

The Ladders of Opportunity Bursary is made possible through the collaborative efforts of Witton Lodge Community Association, IM Properties, BMet College, The Pioneer Group, and Urban Devotion, all working together to create a brighter future for local youth.

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.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: When the bonds of community are tested

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

(Ed’s note – this column was written for the Erdington Local printed edition and first published on 15.08.24)

At Witton Lodge Community Association, community has always been at the heart of who we are, and what we stand for.

There are times when these bonds of community are tested. Over recent weeks we have seen shocking scenes of violence and attacks against some of the most vulnerable in our society. Despite what some say, we know that these are not protests in the proud traditions of our country, they are acts of deliberate violence and intimidation intended to create fear, sow division and cause chaos.

In Birmingham, we appear to have avoided the worst of these, however, the risk remains, and we must be vigilant.

At these times (of hardship), it is up to all of us to demonstrate who we really are, and what we stand for – our shared values, common humanity, and solidarity. At the worst of times, we often see the best of people, and there have been many uplifting moments of unity and togetherness.

We know that our country has a proud history of overcoming such challenges and emerging even stronger, so whether it was the Blitz spirit during World War II, or more recently the collective response to the COVID-19 pandemic – the power of community has been, and remains, a beacon of hope and unity.

Social media has made life better and easier on many many fronts, however, there is increasing awareness about the dangers of misinformation. Please remain alert and help your neighbours and communities distinguish between facts and falsehoods.

In Erdington, our many communities and local groups play a pivotal role in promoting understanding and fostering cooperation between and within our communities.

This sense of belonging and connection contributes to us all feeling safe. Together we are stronger!

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.

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NEWS: Bagot Arms Golf Society Raises £5200 for Castle Vale based charity Spitfire Services

Words by Tony Roche, pics supplied by Bagot Arms Golf Society

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Bagot Arms Golf Society recently organised a charity golf day that raised an impressive £5,200 for local charity Spitfire Services.

The fundraising sporting event also featured a raffle, auction, and gathered generous donations from club members, contributors, friends, and sponsors.

Spitfire Services, a charity based on Castle Vale, was established in 2002 and supports people facing hardship, isolation, and offers advice and guidance over finances.

The charity also operates several facilities on the Vale, including the Upcycle showroom and Castle Vale Library, and provides essential food bank services to communities in Castle Vale, Erdington, Pype Hayes, and Tyburn – assisting the vulnerable and needy during these challenging times of the cost of living crisis.

Jane Roche, Operations Manager for Spitfire Services, extended her heartfelt gratitude to the Bagot Arms Golf Society and all those involved in the charity golf day that raised £5,200 for the organisation.

Jane emphasised the critical role that community support plays in enabling Spitfire Services to continue their mission of helping those in need, particularly during challenging times.

She told: “The generosity and solidarity displayed by the Bagot Arms Golf Society and its supporters stand as a testament to the strength of community bonds and the commitment to aiding those in need.

“In these challenging times, acts of kindness like these serve as beacons of hope and compassion for all.”

Established in 2009 and originally based at the Bagot Arms public house in Pype Hayes, the Bagot Arms Golf Society has transcended the loss of its iconic venue – which has now been demolished after a fire destroyed the roof and building – and continues to serve as a beacon of community unity on the golf course, fostering friendship and camaraderie among its members.

The club also has a rich history of fundraising for charities noble causes such as Cancer Research, The Make a Wish Foundation, Pancreatic Cancer Research, and Help for Heroes.

Click here to read about the Bagot Gold Society’s previous fundraising for men’s mental health charity ‘It Takes Balls to Talk’. 

Reflecting on the success of the recent charity golf day, Bagot Arms Golf Society club secretary Jason Wellings expressed gratitude to all involved, emphasising the lasting impact of their collective contribution.

He told: “The awareness raised about the importance of food banks in our community is invaluable, and we urge local businesses and residents to continue supporting Spitfire Services in their crucial mission.”

For more on the Bagot Arms Golf Society visit: www.bagotarmsgs.com

For more on Spitfire Services visit www.spitfireservices.org.uk

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Your Voice, Your Vote

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

At Witton Lodge we’re delighted to support the recent launch of ‘Community Voice’, a new community-led initiative that enables residents from across Erdington to have a real say on local issues and opportunities.

Together, we want to connect with those who are passionate about their community, including those ‘less heard voices’ eager to shape and deliver local services and improve their neighbourhoods.

Community Voice welcomes people from all backgrounds and will work hard to reflect the makeup of our local communities from across Erdington and North Birmingham.

We already know there is huge appetite, interest and expertise and Community Voice will help to amplify this.

Now, there is also the small matter of a general election. Our right to vote was hard-won through the tireless efforts and sacrifice of many, so please do exercise this right, and vote.

I was also reminded of sacrifice, during the recent D Day commemorations, when we heard moving accounts from our veterans about how British, Commonwealth and Allied troops made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms.

Your vote is your voice, and it holds the power to influence the decisions that affect local lives, shape our communities and determine the future of our country.

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.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Reflections and renewed focus

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

Whilst we know there is always more to do, usually at this time of the year we take a moment to reflect on the impact that we have made. This is important on many fronts, and not least to recognise the contributions of our many volunteers, local groups and partners who make our work possible.

Over the past year our five hubs had over 18,000 visits, providing vital community spaces for our residents to seek support, advice or simply connect with others.

We also awarded more than £450,000 to local groups, showcasing our dedication to empowering community organisations. These funds will make a significant difference in addressing the needs of our community and help to create local infrastructure that will serve us well in the future.

Additionally, we secured £4 million to kickstart the much-needed redevelopment of the former Erdington Baths into a dynamic enterprise hub for budding entrepreneurs and a new community centre to be proud of.

We also supported over 3,000 households through our B:Can Energy Advice partnership, saving each household an estimated £380 annually, easing financial burdens for our residents whilst also contributing to environmental sustainability.

As we pause for reflection, we are immensely proud and grateful for the dedication of our 18 volunteers, whose commitment to volunteering embodies the DNA of our Association.

Their efforts have positively impacted hundreds of fellow residents across all our sites, showcasing the power of community support and collaboration.

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.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: The impact of Council cuts on our communities: and what we can do

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

Like many of you, we have seen the degree and shape of the Council’s funding and service cuts, and they are devastating. At Witton Lodge Community Association, we are deeply concerned about the impact that they will have on our most vulnerable communities. Local charities, groups, foodbanks, and networks are doing their very best, but are being overwhelmed by a tsunami of demand.

As the Council grapples with its financial crisis, we know that budgets are not just numbers – they represent lives, hopes, and the very fabric of our community. Following a decade of austerity, we are particularly concerned about further cuts to Youth Services and Libraries – they are the frontline of providing support, education, a sense of belonging, and safe spaces for our young people.

We know local charities and support networks play a critical role, and these funding cuts mean that unfortunately, some will go under, whilst others will struggle to maintain the already ‘frayed safety net’ that many vulnerable people rely on.

But, as we did during the pandemic, we will be stepping up to the challenge. We have already distributed over £250,000 to local groups to provide essential support services and will redouble efforts to strengthen local networks to attract further resources.

We have urged the Council to work with us and local partners to protect local assets. At Witton Lodge we have a successful track record of doing this – Perry Common Community Hall, Witton Lakes Eco Hub, and Erdington Baths (our latest venture), are some examples of this. But it is not just about buildings, it is about local voices and services – designing and delivering services differently to meet the needs of our communities, and ensuring the Council gets value-for-money.

Our community and city’s recovery relies on us pulling together, taking action, and advocating for change that works with the grain of 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.

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NEWS: St Thomas’ Association raise £400 to support brain injury rehabilitation centre

Words by Ed King / Pics supplied by St Thomas’ Association and Google Maps)

Earlier this year, members of the St Thomas’ Association handed over a cheque of £400 to West Heath House – a Birmingham based rehabilitation centre that provides care and support for people recovering from brain injury.

The money was raised after kind hearted people at the Erdington social club, situated on Station Road, held fundraising raffles over six weeks and generated a total of £1000 for charity.

Donations were also made to Birmingham Hospice Partnership – who operate John Taylor Hospice on Grange Road, the Alzheimer’s Society – and Guide Dogs for the Blind. 

West Heath House, based in West Heath, is run by the national charity Brainkind and is and is one of the only places in the city that can offer ‘innovative rehabilitation and ongoing support to enable people to thrive after a brain injury.’

The South Birmingham facility was chosen by people from St Thomas’ Association after one of their longstanding members – Colin Anderson, who has played dominoes at the club for over 30 years – became a resident at West Heath House.

Staff from the centre took time from their own personal life to escort Colin to a special dominoes league presentation night at St Thomas’ Association in October last year, traveling across Birmingham and back again, and won the hearts of the people who use the club and know Colin.

After receiving the generous donation from St Thomas’ Association, West Heath House Service Manager, Paul Higgins, responded in writing by saying: ‘I would like to thank all members of the St Thomas Association for their amazingly kind donation. The money will be used for the people we support in a way of their choosing.’

St Thomas’ Association has been part of the Erdington community for nearly 130 years, having first opened its doors in 1895. The club recently had an upgrade worth £200k and offers a vibrant social and events calendar – alongside top of the range facilities for private parties, functions, and corporate bookings.

For more on St Thomas’ Association visit www.saint-toms.co.uk or call (0121) 373 4144

For more on West Heath House visit www.brainkind.org/services/west-heath-house

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Building community scaffolding with Witton Lodge Community Association

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


 
The first weeks of 2024 seem to have passed in a blur. Although still early in the New Year, there have already been some notable highlights.

First, we are thrilled to welcome a number of new volunteers who have joined our existing colleagues and are already making incredible contributions. We were also delighted to support 31 local groups and organisations with grant funding to deliver a wide range of services, which we are confident will make a huge difference across Erdington. We will shortly be publishing details of these projects, so do look out for them.

Off the back of this success, we are seeking to work with trusted local groups to establish Digital Hubs across Erdington, where residents can access computers and online services, as well as support to gain new skills.

As many of you will know, Witton Lodge Community Association was setup in response to a housing crisis, and over the past 30 years worked hard to transform Perry Common. But we know there is more to do, and in recent years we have been purchasing empty properties, refurbishing, and making them available to local families.

Many of our residents are still struggling with cost-of-living pressures, which is why our Advice Services, Health and Wellbeing projects, and Job search are so vital, and in demand. We believe this ‘community scaffolding’ will hold us in better stead for the inevitable tough times ahead.

Our approach, at its heart, remains as it did all those years ago… working with and alongside our communities, listening, and harnessing their knowledge and experience to develop services that deliver results.

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.