Tag: charity

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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 SPOTLIGHT: Birmingham Settlement Sports and Community Centre

Ousdie of Birmingham Settrlement Sports and Community Centre, 600 Kingstanding Road / Photograph supplied by Birmingham Settlement

Words by Shaun Hand

Most Kingstanding locals will already know of Birmingham Settlement. After all, it’s one the city’s oldest charities, working to build and improve the wellbeing and financial resilience of communities across North Birmingham – with centres in Newtown, Ladywood, and Kingstanding.

But what people might be less aware of is just how many activities and classes for all ages the charity organises at their Sports & Community Centre, located at 600 Kingstanding Road.

Lizzie Forrester, the charity’s Income and Communications Manager, talked through it all. “The centre looks unassuming from outside, but it’s like a rabbit warren inside,” she laughs. “There are a lot of rooms and there’s always a lot going on. We’ve got separate projects for different age groups and different needs.”

The Kingstanding Road building was formerly leased to the Council and known locally as the 610 Community Centre (despite actually being at No 600) but in recent years, it’s ended up back in Birmingham Settlement’s capable hands.

“We’ve redeveloped it and broadened its remit for the wider community,” Lizzie says. “There are over 30 activities for kids, OAPs, families, and disabled people.

Young people engaged in sport as part of Saturday PlayZone session at Birmingham Settlement Sports and Community Centre / Photgraph supplied by Birmingham Settlement

“We’ve got two large halls at the centre. One is a community gym, and one’s an activity room, which can also be hired out for children’s birthday parties.” She goes on to list an impressive array of activities on offer, from sports to craft to bowls to dance.

“We’ve also got a new pitch out the back, funded by the Football Foundation’s PlayZone initiative” she adds. “Here, there’s a weekly family sports session as well a walking netball and girls’ football. It’s also used by kids attending the centre’s summer club.”

But it’s not just sports that’s happening in the grounds. A new green space is also being developed at the centre. The ‘Garden & Grow’ group, made up of local residents, meets weekly to help grow veg.

Garden & Grow volunteers / Photograph supplied by BIrmingham Setlement

Lizzie continues, “They’ve just had their first harvest, with potatoes, tomatoes and beans.” Handily, then, the centre also offers cooking classes. Lizzie tells there are also plans to put a pond on the site: “We want to put more wildlife in, to help people enjoy nature.”

Incredibly, despite Birmingham Settlement receiving no statutory funding, all of the activities on offer at the Kingstanding centre are free to participate in — although a fully voluntary £2 donation from those who feel they can afford it is always welcome.

The charity’s money principally comes from other funding initiatives and the money raised by their charity shops, sponsored walks and runs, and other events.

This means very little of what Birmingham Settlement does in Kingstanding could happen without volunteers. “They form a big part of what we do,” Lizzie explains. “Thanks to Lottery funding, we’ve recently appointed a Volunteer Coordinator.

“At Kingstanding, we’re keen to help support people into volunteering. Three or four of our local volunteers have ended up becoming employed by us.”

For more on Birmingham Settlement Sports and Community Centre call (0121) 250 0770 or visit www.birminghamsettlement.org.uk/kingstanding

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: community@erdingtonlocal.com

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: National Opportunity Day – creating pathways in Erdington

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

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

7 August was National Opportunity Day, celebrating a simple but powerful idea: everyone deserves the chance to learn, grow and build a brighter future, whatever their circumstances.

At Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA), that belief shapes our work every day. For over 30 years we have stood alongside residents across Erdington and North Birmingham, removing barriers to employment, developing skills and supporting people to achieve their ambitions.

Meaningful work transforms lives. It strengthens families, builds confidence and helps create more resilient communities. Through our employment and skills programmes, hundreds of local residents have gained the support they need to take their next step into work, training or self-employment.

Our WOW! (World of Work) Employment Programme provided tailored coaching and one-to-one guidance to 18–21-year-olds, helping young people build confidence and move towards their goals.

Regular large-scale jobs fairs connect job seekers directly with local employers, while our Social Enterprise Support Programme has equipped aspiring entrepreneurs with workshops, mentoring and business planning to launch sustainable, community-focused ventures.

WLCA takes a holistic approach. Alongside employment support, we offer advice on energy, benefits and housing, plus health and wellbeing activities designed to help people thrive.

If you or someone you know in Erdington needs a fresh start, advice or support, contact us on 0121 382 1930, email enquiries@wittonlodge.org.uk or visit one of our hubs.

Opportunity starts here.

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

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

Click on the image below to read more from Witton Lodge Community Association’s COMMUNITY ANCHORS news pages, first published in the Erdington Local newspaper on 14 August. 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: B:CAN – Inspiring change

Witton Lodge Community Association at B:CAN Annual Conference / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

The Birmingham Community Action Network’s (B:CAN) first Annual Conference was held at Edgbaston Cricket Ground.

B:CAN members were joined by partners, community organisations and stakeholders to celebrate and champion the inspiring work taking place to revitalise communities across the city.

Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer at Witton Lodge Community Association, is Chair of the Network. He said: “We are extremely proud of our progress made and IN realising B:CAN’s true potential when communities, funders & partners unite behind a shared purpose.

“The conference underlined how we are energised, ready for the journey ahead and excited about the impact we will create together.”

Images from the B:CAN Annual Conference / Photographs supplied by WLCA

For more on the Birmingham Community Action Network visit: www.bcan.co.uk

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.

Click on the image below to read WLCA COMMUNITY ANCHORS news pages in the July/August edition of Erdington Local, as first published on 16 July 2026.


 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Three Lions, One Erdington

Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer at Witton Lodge Community Association, standing outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

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

As the World Cup arrives, the whole country starts to dream — and Erdington is no exception.

As England fans, we are once again limbering up for the nation’s favourite emotional triathlon: early optimism, confident armchair punditry, and that one mate insisting, usually through a mouthful of biscuits, that they “would have buried that chance.”

While England negotiates the sweaty-palmed business of penalties, VAR reviews and extra time viewed from behind a cushion, Erdington already knows what a strong team looks like. Across the area, volunteers, residents, community groups and local businesses are linking up beautifully – passing kindness, creating chances and making sure no one is left on the sidelines.

Logo of England national team on football jersey white background / Image from Adobe Stock

From our High Street traders and coffee mornings to youth activities, wellbeing sessions and neighbours checking in before full-time, Erdington is full of local legends putting in a proper shift.

Some lead from the front, others do the quiet midfield work that keeps everything together and moving forward. There are no transfer fees involved – just teamwork, tea and the occasional heroic raffle prize.

So, if England do go all the way and finally bring the World Cup home (and we know they can), expect a roar from Erdington loud enough to shake every shopfront on the High Street.

While the Three Lions chase history, let’s also celebrate Erdington’s own winning team: our neighbours, volunteers, and community groups who turn up week after week.

Come on England!

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 Erdington Local newspaper – out on shelf from 18 June. 

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

 

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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: 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.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Celebrating the potential of ambition and community support with Witton Lodge Community Association

Group gathered outside Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) hosted a landmark celebration to honour the achievements of local residents in reaching a significant milestone for youth employment, social entrepreneurship and volunteering in North Birmingham.

Held on 31 March, the event was presided over by Erdington MP, Paulette Hamilton, who was joined by community leaders to recognise three pillars of community growth successfully facilitated by WLCA.

The celebration served as a showcase for the WOW! (World of Work) Youth Trailblazer initiative which provided tailored support to help young people overcome barriers to employment, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to secure meaningful roles.

Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton speaking at community celebration event in Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA

It also honoured the latest cohort of aspiring local entrepreneurs who have successfully completed Witton Lodge’s latest Social Enterprise programme. Over the last five months these men and women presented a diverse range of business models – including new Community Interest Companies (CICs) and creative startups – designed to tackle local social issues. Their pitches demonstrated a unique blend of business acumen and a commitment to social good.

A full Perry Common Community Hall heard inspiring stories from several successful candidates who shared their personal journeys with an audience of over 70 invited guests.

“Seeing the diverse range of business pitches was truly inspiring,” said Marcia Lewis, Employment and Enterprise Advisor at WLCA.

“They’ve shown a unique blend of business acumen and a deep commitment to social good.”

With the event celebrating community impact, a well-earned spotlight shone on the selfless contributions of Witton Lodge’s dedicated volunteers.

Guest speaker at community celebration event in Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Chair of the organisation, Linda Hines, MBE, paid special tribute to the amazing men and women who continue to give their time to support other people. WLCA is proud to have an incredible team of volunteers who dedicate their time each week to supporting their local community – contributing more than 1,700 hours of service last year. From running local projects to providing peer support, these volunteers remain the backbone of North Birmingham’s resilience.

Linda commented: “Our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do. Their selflessness ensures that no-one in North Birmingham has to walk their path alone.”

With certificates of achievement presented to all WOW! Youth Trailblazer and Social Enterprise participants as well as the volunteers, Paulette Hamilton MP, was keen to emphasise the importance of cohesive and collaborative community support.

“Investing in young people is investing in the future,” she said.

“Witton Lodge has a proud history of supporting local communities to develop talent so people can become the best they can be.”

WLCA staff and active community members outside Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer at WLCA, summed up the feeling of everyone who had attended.

“When a community invests in its own people, everyone thrives,” he said.

“The success of the WOW! Youth Trailblazer participants and the vision of the new social entrepreneurs serve as a powerful blueprint for the future of North Birmingham.”

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: Residents invited to become Community Health Champions and transform local wellbeing

Staff at Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) engaging in community outreach work / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Residents across Birmingham are being offered a unique opportunity to become a catalyst for change in their communities.

The Birmingham Community Health Champions programme is officially open for applications, inviting passionate individuals to step forward, gain expert knowledge and lead the way towards a healthier, more informed and connected city.

Funded by Birmingham City Council’s Public Health Team and delivered in partnership with Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA), the initiative is designed to bridge the gap between health services and local residents.

Building Connections

By empowering ‘trusted voices’ within the community, the programme aims to ensure that vital health information isn’t just a list of statistics for people to access but a supportive conversation between friends and neighbours.

The benefits of joining the programme and becoming a Community Health Champion are extensive. People will benefit from:

  • Professional Training: Gain free, monthly expert-led training on critical topics including mental health, nutrition, cardiovascular health, diabetes and air quality.
  • Personal Growth: Develop communication skills, build your CV and grow your confidence.
  • Flexibility: The role is designed to fit around your life. Whether you have hours to spare or just a few minutes for a chat, your contribution matters.
  • Full Support: Champions receive ongoing guidance and all travel expenses are fully reimbursed.

 

Tackling Inequalities

Waheed Saleem, Head of Programmes and Partnerships at Witton Lodge, added: “Community Health Champions will be trusted voices within their communities.

“By using the knowledge gained through the programme they will be able to make a real difference.

“Anyone with a passion to make a difference can join. This is a great opportunity to address health inequalities and improve wellbeing across Birmingham.”

A lack of experience is no barrier to becoming a Community Health Champion. People don’t need a medical background or prior work experience in a medical or health setting, they just need to have a genuine desire to help others.

The programme provides all the tools people need to share practical, accessible health advice through everyday conversations.

Joining is simple. Interested residents can apply via the Volunteer Brum platform by completing an Expression of Interest form. This is followed by a friendly introductory conversation and a comprehensive induction session.

Alternatively, you can get started immediately by completing the Community Health Champion Getting to Know You Form – North Birmingham.

For more details, please call Fauzia on 0121 382 1930 or email: Fauzia.begum@wittonlodge.org.uk

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: Safety net, springboard, and the power of community

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

For over three decades Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) has played an active role in helping residents access advice and support services when they experience difficult times. While this is central to our purpose, it’s only part of the picture – we also help unlock and nurture local talent.

It’s often the case that residents turn to us in moments of crisis – cost of living pressures remains a harsh reality for many families. WLCA colleagues step in with practical, hands-on help, guiding residents through a system that can feel overwhelming.

This support often (although, unfortunately not always) prevents individuals and families from reaching crisis point and is the safety net that keeps many households afloat.

But WLCA is also a springboard. Through training, employment support, and enterprise programmes, residents gain confidence, skills, and access to new opportunities. People who’ve been out of work for years find routes back into work. Others discover volunteering pathways, or community projects that help them grow.

Crucially, at Witton Lodge local people are not just receiving services – they are actively shaping and delivering them. Through our community forums, resident panels, and neighbourhood conversations, we utilise local insights, experience and expertise.

As a result, local decisions reflect lived experience, and our residents help design solutions that actually work on the ground.

There is growing acknowledgement that community powered organisations – rooted in trust, relationships, and local knowledge are essential to delivering long term change. At WLCA, we support this shift: putting community voice at the centre and giving residents real influence over the services that affect their lives.

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.