If you would like to develop new skills, meet new people and enjoy new experiences, then you should try volunteering.
Whether your passion is gardening, cooking, DIY, engineering, IT, marketing or childcare, there’s something for everyone.
On Thursday, 12 June, a Volunteer Recruitment event takes place from 11am to 2pm at St Barnabas Church on Erdington High Street.
A range of organisations will be attending to promote all their volunteering opportunities and offering advice and guidance on how you can support local people and local communities while learning something new.
So, if you have a few hours to spare each week, why not start a new adventure. Volunteering has so many benefits.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Outside of Northside Welcome Centre on Streetly Road / Photograph supplied by Northside Welcome Centre
Words by Hema Chumber
At 176 Streetly Road, in the heart of Perry Common, Northside Welcome Centre has been a lifeline for the local community since 2005.
Run by the charity Sikh Nari Manch UK, this volunteer-led hub offers a welcoming space for people of all ages and backgrounds, especially those experiencing loneliness, poor health, or isolation.
The Centre has grown to become more than just a building – it’s a place where connections are made, friendships are formed, and lives are transformed.
Offering a wide range of activities from coffee mornings and arts and crafts to Tai Chi, digital skills training, and mental health support workshops, the Centre is rooted in the needs of the local community.
This holistic approach aims to support the wellbeing of everyone who walks through its doors.
Arts and crafts sessions on Northside Welcome Centre / Photograph supplied by Northside Welcome Centre
Satpal Singh, Manager of Northside Welcome Centre, said: “We listen to the community and work to provide what’s needed, whether it’s through social activities or vital services.
“It’s about creating a place where everyone feels welcome and can thrive, no matter their background or circumstances.
“We’re looking forward to unveiling the improvements that will help us better serve the community, and we’re also very proud of our ongoing work and the positive impact it’s having.
“We’re not just about providing a service, we’re here to build relationships, offer support, and ensure people have the resources they need to improve their lives.”
Computer class at Northside Welcome Centre / Photograph supplied by Northside Welcome Centre
One of the Centre’s most exciting projects is the development of Erdington’s first Digital IT Hub.
This initiative will offer essential tech skills to those who need them most, helping bridge the digital divide and improve access to opportunities.
Alongside this, the Centre is undergoing a major revitalisation, which will improve accessibility, signage, lighting, and the overall environment to make it even more welcoming for all.
Northside Welcome Centre has long been recognised for its outstanding work, having earned the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and the Matrix accreditation for its high-quality advice and guidance services.
These accolades reflect the Centre’s commitment to excellence and its unwavering dedication to the community.
Excercose class at Northside Welcome Centre / Photograph supplied by Northside Welcome Centre
Service users and volunteers alike speak highly of the Centre’s impact on their lives.
One visitor shared: “Northside Welcome Centre is more than bricks and mortar – it’s a lifeline for many.
Another added: “I love coming here because I can connect with people, make friends, and feel a sense of belonging.”
Looking ahead, 2026 will mark Northside Welcome Centre’s 20 year anniversary of serving the community – a milestone the team is eager to celebrate with supporters and friends.
Workshop at Northside Welcome Centre / Photograph supplied by Northside Welcome Centre
The anniversary will be a chance to reflect on the progress made and look forward to the next chapter of growth and impact in Perry Common.
Whether you’re looking for a space to socialise, learn new skills, or receive support, the Centre continues to be a place where people can connect, grow, and thrive.
Or you can email Satpal Singh at [email protected] or call his mobile on 07963 123 751.
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]
Witton Lodge Community Association Chief Officer Afzal Hussain outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King
Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association
Erdington Baths, a cherished community landmark, proudly marks its 100 year anniversary this month. This historic site has been a cornerstone of local sports, recreational, and social life for generations.
Many of you will know about Witton Lodge Community Association’s ambitious plans to refurbish and repurpose the facility as a Community & Enterprise facility, ensuring it remains a vibrant hub for future generations.
Since its closure, the building has deteriorated significantly and the first phase will involve undertaking essential repairs, repairing the roof, and ensuring the building’s structural integrity. This will be followed by transforming the main reception area and pool hall into co-working spaces, studio pods, events, and meeting rooms.
Earlier this month we were able to undertake strip-out works to enable further detailed structural surveys to be undertaken.
This builds on the creation of the pocket park which has improved the external frontage of the building, and we remain hopeful that we will be able to appoint a main contractor later in the year to commence the substantive works.
For those of you that venture to Witton Lakes, you will notice that the Makers Yard in the grounds of the Eco Hub is nearing completion, and residents will shortly be able to participate in range of new activities, including carpentry and horticulture taster courses.
Additionally, we have initiated improvements to the car park at Witton Lakes, to enhance accessibility and the visitor experience.
Against a tough backdrop, we remain committed to investing locally, celebrating all that is great about our area, and demonstrating the #PowerOfCommunity.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Outside of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development, taken from Mason Road (photograph by Joe Marchant)
Say it loud, say it proud, the former Erdington Baths is 100 years old this May!
The building on Mason Road opened to the public on 6 May 1925, offering the local community a range of exciting new recreational activities with its swimming pool, washing baths for men and women, and Turkish baths.
An Art Deco-inspired design captured the imagination of users and passers-by alike; sleek lines, elegant curves and distinctive brickwork with ornate detail; the facility’s rich history owes as much to its distinctive aesthetic charm as much as the activities it housed.
But after decades of service to the community, Erdington’s much-loved-landmark was closed down in 2014 after falling into a state of disrepair. But with its legacy still casting a proud shadow of former glories across the town, its centenary year brings us onto the cusp of an exciting new era for local residents.
Erdington Baths ticket booth circa 1925 / Photograph supplied by WLCA
The 100 year anniversary of Erdington Swimming Baths is a time to reflect on the cherished memories it gave local people, the bond it cemented with the local community and to use those special attachments and emotions to shape a bright new future for the site.
Witton Lodge Community Association is very proud and privileged to be leading on a project to transform the building into a state-of-the-art Enterprise Hub.
Funded in partnership with Birmingham City Council and the West Midlands Combined Authority, work on the £4million project kickstarted with the creation of a vibrant pocket park and recent strip out works getting the building ready for surveying.
The main entrance and former pool hall will be converted into a co-working space with studio pods and meeting rooms. A restaurant, creche and smaller offices are also included in the new design.
(L-R) WLCA CO Afzal Hussain, with BMet Principal/CEO Pat Carvalho and WM Mayor Richard Parker at launch of ‘Phase One’ of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph by Joe Marchant)
Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association, said Erdington’s past can be the springboard for shaping a future where it thrives.
“First of all, we, as an organisation, are thrilled to be breathing new life into this much-loved building,” he said.
“Community and people are at the heart of everything we do and want to achieve. We have held a number of engagement events at the site on Mason Road, so people can come and find out about the plans to transform the building into an enterprise hub and, most importantly, help co-design the look and feel of the building.
“We’ve heard so many wonderful stories from residents about learning to swim at the baths and how they took their children there for classes and met people who became their friends and family.
“The baths hold a special place in the hearts of local residents so it was always a priority for us to include those people in the development process; talking to them about how the building should be brought back into use, what should it look like, what services should run from there.”
WLCA welcome local residents and community volunteers to ‘Phase One’ of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph by Joe Marchant)
To underline this connection to the 100 year old baths, here are just a few of the comments captured from local people:
“It’s great for the area and will put Erdington on the map in a positive way.” – Mia Werson, Erdington resident and member of Friends of Witton Lakes
“This is exactly what Erdington needs. it will bring the community together.” – Angie Chapman, from The Recovery Foundation
“It is an exciting use of an historic building and a great opportunity to support Erdington’s economic growth.” – Rebekah Roebuck, Erdington resident
“It is nice to see the old swimming pool being used again on a community level.” – Elizabeth Walker, Erdington resident
Visitors see inside of Erdington Bath as ‘Phase One’ launch of Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph by Joe Marchant)
These sentiments and more are the reasons why, as Afzal explains, the new hub will play a key role in shaping and sustaining success for residents and the community at large, for years to come.
“Our vision goes beyond simply transforming the physical structure and appearance of the former baths,” he said.
“We are committed to creating a facility that provides on-site support which nurtures local talent and empowers budding entrepreneurs and social enterprises to develop and flourish.
“As it did in the past, this historic building will sit at the very heart of Erdington life, bringing the community together, so that in 100 years from now, people will have just as many stories to tell and memories to share.”
Thanks to the support and guidance of Intervention Architecture Ltd, work has already been completed on a vibrant new pocket park outside the front of the building.
Dedicated volunteers, alongside members of the public and Erdington Walking Group worked tirelessly for two months, through rain and shine, to paint new life into the exterior of the former baths. Colourful planters and railings now entice passers-by.
To mark the baths centenary, Erdington Walking Group organised a special Commemorative Walk on Tuesday (5 May), also marking the hundredth birthday of Erdington Court Bowls Club later in the month.
Local volunteers working on pocket park outside the Erdington Baths/Enterprise Hub development (photograph supplied by WLCA)
With more than 150 members on its books, the bowls club is part of Erdington Recreational Trust, a registered charity that has existed for over 100 years. Bowls became part of the Club in 1925.
Starting on Mason Road, the 30 minute walk took participants on an information laden stroll to the Bowls Club on Bowling Green Close where people were able to tour the venue and take in its historical photographic exhibition; before returning back to the meeting point.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Eco Together members at Witton Lakes Eco Hub – outside / Image supplied by WLCA
Witton Lodge Community Association is delighted to announce that we will be running our third cohort of Eco Together – Witton Lakes, this May.
If you are passionate about the environment and want to make a positive impact but don’t know where to start? Join the Eco Together programme at Witton Lakes Eco Hub!
What is Eco Together?
Eco Together is more than just a course, it’s a community-driven movement powered by local people who care deeply about the environment and want to make a real, lasting difference right here in our neighbourhood.
At its heart, Eco Together is about bringing neighbours, friends, and colleagues together to explore practical, everyday actions that address the eco-crisis. It doesn’t require megaphones or superpowers, just a willingness to try something new and share the journey with others.
The Eco Together programme, held at Witton Lakes Eco Hub, is completely free and open to everyone, with no prior experience or expertise needed. The course runs over six sessions, with each session held in the welcoming, eco-friendly surroundings of Witton Lakes Eco Hub, a space designed with sustainability and community at its core.
Eco Together members at Witton Lakes Eco Hub – inside / Image supplied by WLCA
Each week, the group focuses on a different theme, including energy, transport, food, and resource use, exploring simple yet effective ways to make positive changes.
Sessions are interactive and supportive, encouraging everyone to select small actions to try out and then report back on at the next meeting, fostering a sense of shared purpose and accountability.
Read some of the brilliant reviews from previous cohorts below:
“I’ve enjoyed focusing on different topics each week as this has made me think about areas I haven’t done before.”
“There were many interesting speakers, I would like more courses like this!”
“It was great to meet likeminded eco-warriors.”
Ready to make a difference?
Join the 6-week programme starting Saturday, 3 May, running on selected dates until 19 July at Witton Lakes Eco Hub!
Participants must commit to at least four of the six sessions and will receive hints and tips. useful resources and engaging activities to support their ongoing eco-journeys. Spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to book your spot early.
Join Witton Lakes Eco Hub and let’s work together for a greener, more sustainable future!
To reserve your place, contact Scott at (0121) 227 3200 or email [email protected]
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
A blank calf in the grass at The Ring, Perry Common / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) are running a competition to give an Erdington creative the chance to design one of the iconic calf sculptures in the upcoming ‘Bulls in the City’ charity arts trail.
Looking for designs that incorporate references to Erdington and ‘capture the pride, spirit, and charm of their neighbourhoods’, WLCA will be inviting people to submit their artwork by 25 April – with a winner announced by 30 April.
The competition is open to people of all ages and abilities living in Perry Common, Erdington, Stockland Green, Pype Hayes, Gravelly Hill, Castle Vale, or Kingstanding.
Templates for the calf sculpture, based on the bronze bull statue outside the new Bullring markets, can be downloaded from the WLCA website, with the winning design completed by professional artists from Reilly Creative.
WLCA have generously sponsored one of the calf statues, which will be installed alongside 84 other calves and 40 larger bull statues across the city this summer – before being auctioned off in a special charity event.
A decorated calf next to the original bull statue outside Birmingham Bullring / Pic supplied by Bulls in the City
Following on from ‘The Big Hoot’ in 2015, which saw 89 individually designed and decorated owls installed across the city, the ‘Bulls in the City’ project will be using the Birmingham bull mascot as it’s muse – with each sculpture raising thousands to support Birmingham Hospice, which rely on charity and donations to stay open.
Erdington has been the home to one of Birmingham Hospice’s facilities for decades, widely remembered as John Taylor Hospice and situated on Grange Road.
An important part of the local community, previous charity fundraisers for the hospice have created widespread support – with The Swan pub generating over £5000 in February through hamper raffles, toy drives, clothes collections, and book sales.
By bringing Erdington into the citywide ‘Bulls in the City’ project, WLCA hopes to give Erdington locals a chance to show their love for their community and raise money for the cherished care facility.
A blank calf at Witton Lodge Community Association / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
Jo Townsend, Communications & Community Engagement Manager at WLCA, explained: “We are thrilled to support Birmingham Hospice and join the herd for this fantastic initiative… we’re delighted to bring a calf into our community, offering one lucky resident the chance to have their design featured on it.
“We can’t wait to see the creative submissions and look forward to selecting a winning design that truly represents the wonderful community spirit of Erdington.”
Rebecca Richards, Senior Events Manager at Birmingham Hospice, added: “Due to the national funding crisis affecting all hospices in the UK this year, it’s more important than ever we raise vital funds and awareness for our charity.
“Bulls in the City will be fantastic for our charity, but it’s also a great opportunity for local businesses to get involved in what is set to be the biggest and best art trail our city has ever seen.”
For more information about the ‘Bulls in the City’ design competition contact Witton Lodge at (0121) 382 1930 or email [email protected]
Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association
Witton Lodge Community Association Chief Officer Afzal Hussain outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King
The clearance and strip-out works at the former Erdington Baths on Mason Road mark an important milestone in its transformation into the Enterprise Hub.
This crucial step allows us to conduct in-depth surveys that will support our vision of creating a vibrant space for budding and local entrepreneurs, and the wider community.
The Pocket Park, established through community efforts, has already enhanced the area’s appeal, and we are grateful to Erdington Litter Busters for their continued care of this green space.
At Witton Lodge Community Association, collaboration is at the core of our work. This ethos has driven the creation of the Birmingham Community Action Network (B:CAN), a partnership of 21 trusted community anchor organisations across Birmingham.
B:CAN serves as both a safety net and a springboard for residents, offering support in areas such as welfare, energy efficiency, health, employment, and volunteering.
With an impressive collective reach of over 18,500 residents monthly, B:CAN is dedicated to transforming lives and neighbourhoods to make life better for everyone in Birmingham.
This initiative demonstrates the #PowerofCommunity. It says there is another way, a better way, that works with the grain of community.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association
Witton Lodge Community Association Chief Officer Afzal Hussain outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King
At Witton Lodge Community Association, we see the power of community-led action on a daily basis, and the incredible impact this has on improving the area and the lives of local residents.
Through our community hubs across the Erdington, we provide a comprehensive support system that is easily accessible and provides numerous services to thousands of residents in the heart of our community.
We continue to advocate for more community services and recently hosted visits from Cllr Mariam Khan, Cabinet Member of Health and Social Care and Joanne Roney, the newly appointed Managing Director for Birmingham City Council.
We also hosted a hugely successful marketplace at Perry Common Community Hall, bringing a diverse range of local community and council services direct to our residents.
Against a difficult financial backdrop for the City Council, we hope to continue to work with the Council and demonstrate that there is another way to deliver local services that work with the grain of communities.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Urban Devotion Birmingham team photo outside Hope House / Image supplied by UDB
Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) is a Christian charity working in North East Birmingham, with a mission to empower young people and their families. Founded in 2003, and officially registered as a charity in 2005, UDB supports over 2,500 individuals each year.
The charity aims to help those it engages with to become confident, well-rounded individuals, while building strong and supportive relationships within the community.
It runs various programs, such as drop-in clubs, mentoring, therapeutic support, detached youth work, and educational services in schools. UBD also runs faith-based groups for those who want to explore spirituality, aiming to help young people become confident and well-rounded individuals.
Urban Devotion Birmingham in session at St Barnabas Church, Erdington / Image supplied by UDB
Urban Devotion Birmingham is based at Hope House, 148 Witton Lodge Road in Perry Common – but its services span across several areas of the community, including Pype Hayes, Stockland Green, and neighbouring areas.
One of UDB’s key vehicles for outreach is its Mobile Youth Venue – a converted van that travels to different locations in the community during the week. This mobile service makes youth programs more accessible to young people by meeting them where they live and spend their time.
Amy Heyes, Co-Founder of UBD, said: “Our work is about removing the obstacles that hold people back. The children and young people of Erdington are brilliant, and we love getting the opportunity to support them as they grow.”
Urban Devotion Bimringham in kayacking session / Image supplied by UDB
Amy added: “At UDB, we believe that everyone has something to contribute, and we want to encourage people to play their part – our work wouldn’t be possible without our dedicated team of staff and volunteers, who are all central in helping to provide the services we do, to the local community.
“We welcome any one who’s interested in getting involved to stop by Hope House and say hello, our friendly team are always up for a chat.”
A parent, whose child attends many sessions at the charity, also told: “I don’t know what my boys would have done without UDB – they wouldn’t have had the experiences they have had here, without them.
“It’s a fun and inclusive environment for children and young people, especially to meet new people and make friends. It’s like a family here, and my boys love being a part of the UDB family.”
Urban Devotion Birmingham team next to Mobile Youth Venue / Image supplied by UDB
UDB’s focus is not just to provide services to the community. With a strong emphasis on empowerment from a young age and creating opportunities, the charity also works to ensure young people are playing an active role in shaping their futures.
Volunteers play an essential role in the charity’s work, from mentoring young people to helping run events and practical activities like transport or gardening.
Those who wish to support Urban Devotion Birmingham can also donate goods and help in spreading the word about their work.
For further information on Urban Devotion Birmingham and a calendar of its upcoming events and programmes, please visit www.urbandevotion.org or call 0121 350 9370.
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]
Members of Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club on group cycle ride / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC
Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club (CCC) is a local non-profit organisation that runs cycling activities and group sessions for people of all ages and abilities.
Affiliated with the national sports charity Cycling UK, Pype Hayes CCC has been providing cycling opportunities to people of all ages and abilities since August 2022. Previously called the Cobble Café/Easy Riders, the club works on a volunteer basis with members donating their time to support its activities.
With its primary Bike Hub based at Paget Primary School on Paget Road, the club now has a total of 116 members, with 50 actively participating in its ‘Learn to Pedal’ sessions which take place every Sunday at 10am.
Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club Bike Hub at Paget Primary School / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC
The ‘Learn to Pedal’ programme is open to people of all age ranges, with the youngest participant being three years old and the oldest being 93. The sessions are designed to help individuals build confidence and develop basic cycling skills, with the option to progress to a Bikeability certification – in line with the government’s national cycle training programme.
Pype Hayes CCC welcomes people with varying levels of experience and the pace of learning is adapted to each person’s needs – also running ‘Led Rides’, providing opportunities for people to cycle together in a social, group environment.
The club has a second Bike Hub at the Witton Lodge Community Association Eco Hub on Witton Lakes, where additional ‘Led Rides’ take place weekly. These group rides usually include stops at local cafes, to give members a chance to socialise and to support Erdington’s local community spaces.
‘Mr Fix It’ providing bike repairs and maintanence / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC
Outside of the group activities, Pype Hayes CCC lends bikes to people who do not own a bicycle but want to embrace a healthier and greener way of transport – allocating spare cycles from both Bike Hubs at Paget Primary School and Witton Lakes Eco Hub.
It also offers a servicing initiative called ‘Mr Fix It’, where local residents can access bike repairs and maintenance to ensure their bike is safe to use – encouraging more two wheel travel and allowing more people to participate in the club’s activities.
With support received through a grant from the National Lottery, Pype Hayes CCC has been able to expand its bike stock and improve essential equipment.
The funding has been significant in enabling the club to offer its wider range of services to the Pype Hayes community and neighbouring areas.
Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club at Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC
Gareth Jones, National Standard Cycling Instructor at Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club, said: “Cycling is one of many great ways to get active and enjoy the outdoors, but it is also about supporting one another in the group and the wider community.
“It is very rewarding to see people overcome their fears by taking part and achieve something they did not think was possible at all. We are able to support anyone who wants to join in, learn, or ride socially with other people.”
He added: “We believe our club is unique, because people do not need to know how to pedal straight away – we encourage all of our members to take things slowly in the beginning and then learn at their own pace.
“We welcome people from many different backgrounds and with different abilities. All of the Bikeability instructors here are registered and are SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) trained too.”
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]
