Tag: COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: St Barnabas Church Community Hub

St Barnabas Church, Erdington Town Centre / Photograph by Ed King, Erdington Local

Words by Shaun Hand

The Community Hub at St Barnabas Church on Erdington High Street is one of the Town Centre’s most prominent local support services. As part of the Local Community Safety Partnership, it plays a vital role in supporting some of Erdington’s most vulnerable residents. In some instances, it can even help change their lives.

Community Hub Manager, Natalie, tells about the Hub’s remarkable transformation. “The job advert I responded to was for a Café Manager,” she explains, “And it was a commercial café when I started, but we weren’t meeting the community’s needs that way. So, we decided to close and reopen as a hub [and now] we offer drop-in sessions for everyone of all ages and all support needs.”

That was back in June 2023. And today, the Community Hub offers a varied programme of support and engagement – from sessions for babies and pre-schoolers, through to over-50s fitness groups, they’ve got just about everyone covered.

Community engagement inside St Barnabas Church Community Hub / Photograph supplied by St Barnabas Church Community Hub

Importantly, St Barnabas Community Hub is also there for those in need of more pressing support.

As Natalie explains: “On Tuesdays, we have Birmingham Minds come in; we have our Wellbeing Café every Wednesday. We’ve had Severn Trent come and talk about how they can help those on low incomes to reduce their bills.

“The NHS come in and do pop-ups so people are aware of their healthcare rights. The Witton Lodge Association, one of our biggest partners and supporters, do pop-up clinics around mental and physical wellbeing.

St Barnabas Church Community Hub Manager Natatlie (second left) with local police and partners / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police

“In September, we’re running a mental-health group with Two Ten Therapy to help people connect, express themselves and grow through different tools.”

Food is still part of their offering, too, with free hot food available every Friday, 2-4 pm. “We do jacket potatoes, chicken and rice, pizza, soup,” she continues. “We had 86 people here last Friday.”

But Natalie’s role has certainly evolved from the one she applied for. “I’m a ‘signposter’,” she explains. “Depending on the issues that people present with, which can be varied, we give them details of support services that offer alternatives for those self-medicating with alcohol or drugs due to trauma.”

St Barnabas Church Community Hub hosting day of engagement with members of the Local Safety Partnership Team / Photograph by Ed King, Erdington Local

One example of this in action is Benjamin Lacey, who’s in recovery from alcohol misuse and now a valued volunteer and welcomer at the Hub. “St Barnabas listened to me when I was in crisis,” he tells. “I was able to talk openly, with no judgement, which was start of my journey to know that it’s OK to live again.”

To this end, St Barnabas Community Hub extend their offer of help through the chance to volunteer for more like Benjamin.

As Natalie explains: “Participants come in and ask to volunteer, so we look to see what their strengths are and what they’re comfortable with. Listening is key, so volunteers sit and listen to people.

“They might just be a friendly ear or they might be able to identify support needs. You don’t get that everywhere because not everyone has time, but these people do.”

For more information on St Barnabas Community Hub call (0121) 306 4820 or visit www.stbarnabaserdington.org.uk/communityhub

If you know of a community group or individual that deserves a COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT shone on them, please email us at: community@erdingtonlocal.com

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Castle Pool Community Partnership

Outside of Castle Pool, Castle Vale / Photograph by Ed King, Erdington Local

Words by Shaun Hand

Back in 2013, when Birmingham City Council announced their plans to close Castle Vale’s swimming pool on Farnborough Road, long-time local resident Amanda Cutler started a petition to save it. She couldn’t have known then that she and her family would end up helping to run it.

“An asset transfer [taking over full responsibility for the site] was the only way we could save the pool,” she explains today. “So we went through that and formed the Castle Pool Community Partnership. We carried on running it, unpaid, for three years. We were the only ones in Birmingham doing that at the time.”

Amanda Cutler (right) and staff member at Castle Pool / Photogroah by Ed King, Erdington Local

Local estate stakeholder, Spitfire Services, were on hand to oversee the complicated process and have been supporting subsequent fundraising endeavours.

But today the running of Castle Pool remains a family affair, with Amanda, her two sons, her nephew, and two volunteers sharing the lifeguard and teaching duties.

They offer swimming for adults, 12-1 pm Monday-Wednesday, but their main focus is on providing swimming lessons for children, including disabled children, on Saturday mornings and during the school holidays.

Signage by swimming pool at Castle Pool / Photgraph by Ed King, Erdington Local

“Pools are closing all over the place,” Amanda tells. “And kids need swimming lessons, especially with all the drownings lately, but lessons are expensive. Because of where we are, we offer them at £5 per week.

“We don’t do ourselves any favours at that price, but you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do, and the people here love it. It’s a family environment. All the local disabled schools come to us.”

Amanda goes on to outline the stark reality of being responsible for a former Council asset; it costs a lot of money to run and maintain. Local schools hire the pool for lessons, and swimming clubs such as S4, Boldmere, and Kingsbury hire it in the evenings.

But even with that money going straight back into running the pool, more is needed to fund much-needed refurbishments on the 43 year old building.

Safety equipment hung up poolside at Castle Pool / Photograph by Ed King, Erdington Local

Castle Pool Community Partnership recently won some funding that allowed the plant room — the invisible machinery that keeps the pool clean and safe — to be updated. However, as Amanda also explains, there’s still a lot to do.

“The major work downstairs is done, but upstairs needs upgrading,” she says. “We need new changing rooms, new doors, new toilets. We keep it as clean as we can, but it’s an old building. Everything’s dated.”

The outdated plant room also meant the pool had to keep shutting because of old, failing equipment, and then close completely for it to be replaced, meaning loss of income. Amanda is therefore constantly on the lookout for anyone willing to help or lend a hand.

“We never have any complaints about the teaching,” she says. “But we do need to update the place, so we need funding, donations… someone who can help us out with some new doors. Anything.”

For more on Castle Pool Community Partnership call (0121) 748 3196 or visit www.facebook.com/CastlePoolCommunityPartnership

If you know of a community group or individual that deserves a COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT shone on them, email us at: community@erdingtonlocal.com

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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 SPOTLIGHT: YoungStars – Castle Vale Community Hub and youth service provider

Words by Shaun Hand

We don’t usually think of youth clubs as being family affairs, but that’s exactly how Castle Vale’s YoungStars began. “It was started by me and my parents,” explains founder and director Luke McLean.

“It was meant to be a one-night show at St Cuthbert’s Church – young people showing their talents, be it singing or playing an instrument – but all the other parents wanted it to continue.”

That was way back in 2004, when Luke was just 14. Today, he’s in charge, leading a dedicated team that meets a lot of different needs. As he puts it, “It’s gone from being just shows, to being a youth club, to being more about youth services.”

Celebrating Easter at YoungStars / Photograph supplied by YoungStars

YoungStars became a community interest company (CIC) in 2019. “We’re still volunteers; we’ve all got other jobs; but we’ve been able to grow a lot since becoming a CIC,” Luke says. “We’ve got a lot more structure, and we’re able to apply for more pots of funding rather than just relying on donations.”

Part of this growth was finding a permanent home. Luke laughs, “We’ve been based in every building on the Vale you can think of!”, but when the old public library on the High Street was closed YoungStars were able to secure the space for themselves – helping them to expand their remit even further.

Regular events include a wellbeing group for those aged 16 and over on Tuesday evenings (6-8.30pm), where young adults can have a cup of tea and a chat with YoungStars’ Rachel and Adam about whatever’s on their minds (under-18s must be accompanied by a parent) – and there’s a youth club for 5-16-year-olds every Wednesday and Friday evening (also 6-8.30pm).

YoungStars 20 year anniversary celebration / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

Friday’s events are run by volunteer Lauren. “She’s come all the way with us,” Luke tells me. “She started coming to the youth club when she was seven. She’ll be 22 this year, and as well as volunteering, she’s on our management Board.”

YoungStars also cater for adults with a ‘nourish and natter’ soup kitchen on Thursdays (5-6.30pm) and a community kitchen selling breakfast and lunch on Saturdays and Sundays, between 9am and midday.

Activities at YoungStars Community Hub on Castle Vale / Photograph supplied by YoungStars

However, Castle Vale’s young people remain the focus of YoungStars and Luke is particularly excited that the group has received funding from the government’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme to fund 90 free places for children during the six week school holidays.

“That means all their food and activities are paid for, including swimming and trips to the seaside,” Luke explains, adding that (at the time of writing) there are still places available. To qualify, children have to be receiving free school meals.

YoungStars founder Luke McLean at VE Day celebratoin event in YoungStars’ Castle Vale / Photograph by Tracy Fisher

“We’ve been very lucky,” Luke reckons when talking about the HAF funding. But given his and the group’s longstanding devotion to help Castle Vale’s youth (and their parents), it feels more like sound judgement. From humble beginnings, YoungStars has become a crucial part of Castle Vale’s youth provision.

To find out more about YoungStars’ activities or remaining summer holiday places, visit www.facebook.com/youngstarshub or contact Luke or Lauren on 0121 661 7879.

For more on YoungStars visit www.weareyoungstars.com

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 SPOTLIGHT: CAMEO – a welcoming social group that brings older locals together

Members of CAMEO taken during group excursion / Image taken from Erdington Local archives, from feature on community groups supported by the ENNS

Words by Shaun Hand

For 25 years, Erdington’s CAMEO group has been helping retired local residents to connect, stay active, and keep learning.

Erdington Local spoke to Volunteer Co-ordinator Angela Richards to learn more about the group, how it works, and what their plans for the future are.

“We’re not just a group that sits down,” tells Angela. “CAMEO is for older people who still want to contribute; who still want to learn and do things.”

The volunteer-run group, whose name stands for ‘Come and Meet Each Other’, convene every Tuesday morning, from 10am until 12pm, in the church hall at the back of Six Ways Erdington Baptist Church on Wood End Road. Meetings include refreshments, quizzes, guest speakers, and more. The group also organise regular daytrips, both locally and further afield. All for just £2 per week.

Angela first became involved with CAMEO because her mother, Gloria, was one of the group’s original volunteers. “I used to go and pick her up,” Angela explains. “And then I got involved, doing little things like helping to find activities and speakers.”

Image of senior adults in a social setting / Image taken from Adobe Stoke Images

Fast-forward to today, and CAMEO enjoys a wide range of both activities and guest speakers. The weekly meet-ups start with a chat over tea and toast. As Angela says, “It’s a chance for people who feel lonely or isolated and want to meet up, talk, and do things with people of a similar age. Some members are bereaved and dealing with loss, and this is the only chance they get to sit and socialise with others.”

Physical health is also important, with sessions including some light chair exercises and health-focused talks from speakers such as Dr Jha of Kingsbury Road Medical Centre. In some instances, these talks can prove potentially life-saving.

Six Ways Baptist Church, where CAMEO hold regular meetings / Photograph by Ed King

After one on sepsis, Angela herself realised that, “I was able to highlight someone who wasn’t well. She went into hospital, and it turned out she did indeed have sepsis.” There are also visits from staff at Wheelwright Road Pharmacy, offering tests on things like blood pressure and eyesight.

Beyond the church hall, the group also gets out and about. Upcoming daytrips include a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum at the end of July and the Trentham Estate in September. They also stay closer to home, organising trips to local garden centres and the like.

You get a lot for a couple of quid a week, then. But as Angela points out, it couldn’t happen without extra funding.

Angela Richards accepting award from Care UK at Elederflower Grange opening event / Photograph by Shaun Fellows (Shine Pix Ltd) and supplied by Care UK

When I speak to her, she’s keen to thank the Sutton & Erdington Lions Club for nominating her for her (well-deserved) £500 award from Care UK’s new Elderflower Grange care home on Orphanage Road – “a wonderful, forward-thinking establishment” – which will help CAMEO continue their incredible work.

Further support has come from the Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme.

“I just want people to be aware there are good things going on in Erdington,” Angela says. “Especially for older people.”

CAMEO is one of the finest examples.

For more information on CAMEO contact Angela Richards directly on 07342 154 267 or by emailing angelarichards82@yahoo.co.uk

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 SPOTLIGHT: FC Elite Football Academy

Mixed squad of young players at FC Elite / Photograph supplied by FC Elite

Words by Sebastian Muscroft

FC Elite are one of Birmingham’s youngest football academies. But since being founded in 2013 they have already reached some impressive milestones and set out big plans for the future.

Original formed as a women’s team, FC Elite saw early success as they gained promotion within their first season. This then prompted them to form a men’s team the following year and a youth side in 2016. The local Football Academy now have 15 teams across different age groups.

FC Elite Football Academy club founder and chairman, Mario Gerroni, told: “I started the club out of passion. Passion for football. But then it grew into having a sight, starting the roots, and leaving a legacy.”

FC Elite founder Mario Gerroni / Photograph supplied by FC Elite

The Academy used grounds across Erdington, including working with Short Heath Fields Trust to bring community sports to Short Heath Playing Fields, but found their permanent home at Twickenham Park on College Road – moving to the Kingstanding fields in 2016.

Since training and playing at Twickenham Park, FC Elite have overseen some big developments there – with a car park currently being built, as well as increasing the amount of football pitches.

“Developing the site is one of the biggest things,” adds Mario, “because now people can see it growing as it went from a closed off field to hopefully a facility now.”

This ambition is mirrored by local residents, with one telling Kingstanding Local: “It would be nice to have a good sports facility within walking distance and what the club are doing and have already done looks good.”

Map of proposed developments at Twickenham Park in Kingstanding, home ground to FC Elite / Image supplied by FC Elite

But what’s next for FC Elite?

“On the football side of things, it would be nice to get up to 20, 25 teams,” tells Mario. “We’d also like to build a sports hub for the people of Kingstanding making sure they don’t have to leave the ward for quality provisions.”

“But if we could develop the site as much as we can, we could have other things down here,” he adds, “like disability football, walking football… we’ve got paddle courts we’d like to embrace as well as tag rugby. There’s loads of things we can have down here.

“If we had a building down here, we could potentially have other organisations use it and have little offices on site, so the possibilities are endless.”

FC Elite Football Academy are also using sport to support the Kingstanding community off the pitch as well.

“One of the initiatives that I’d like to do is Club Captains,” tells Mario, “which will help to address the issue of knife crime.”

“[We’re] asking Nike to donate football boots,” he adds, “and working in schools trying to get workshops going.

“The idea is about trying to get people from different wards to come along and embrace each other rather than engaging in postcode wars and carrying a knife.”

FC Elite Academy is open to new members and have stated anyone is welcome to come down to Twickenham Park for a free trial session.

For more on FC Elite Football Academy visit www.fcelite.co.uk

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 SPOTLIGHT: Erdington mourns the passing of local multi-media and mural artist Bunny Bread

Bunny Bread painiting Louvina Moses mural on Coton Lane, Erdington / Photograph supplied by Bunny Bread

Words by Ed King

Erdington’s creative and wider community have been reeling from the shocking loss of one of their most cherished members, and a man whose murals and paintings brought joy to so many.

Bunny Bread (Rudel James – aka Create Not Destroy) passed away in late October from a surprise and fatal heart attack.

Erdington resident and multi-media artist – with talents in photography, videography, aerosol art, illustration, music, and murals – Bunny Bread began his creative journey in the mid 1980’s.

Skilled in capturing the characters he saw in the world around him, Bunny’s work represents a beautiful gallery of creativity and community, from musicians and performers to the individuals that shine their light on the everyday streets.

Bunny Bread’s mural of Louvina Moses on Coton Lane, Erdington / Photograph supplied by Bunny Bread

In Erdington, one of Bunny’s best loved pieces is the large mural of Louvina Moses, on Coton Lane – just off Erdington High Street.

The piece was commissioned as part of the ‘Queens of the Commonwealth’ programme – supporting a special documentary celebrating 22 women who migrated to the UK from Commonwealth countries, produced ahead of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games in 2022.

When interviewed by Erdington Local in October 2022, Bunny told: “I spent as much time on the ground chatting to people than I did up the ladder painting. People were so interested what I was doing, normally they would walk past me without giving me a second glance but when I start painting murals people are suddenly interested.”

He added: “There is a real appetite for art in Erdington, through our [Artists Conversations] group we know there is talent in the area and art can make a difference. I want art to become part of Erdington, like how the murals and art really are part of Brixton; there is no reason why Erdington cannot be the Brixton of Birmingham.”

Bunny Bread mural / Photograph supplied by Bunny Bread

Following the news of his death, messages of love and condolences flooded social media.

The Erdington based Birmz is Grime collective posted: “Great loss to this world. Rest in peace Bunny. Thank you for leaving the world a bit more brighter. Was lucky enough to call this guy a friend.”

Lincoln Moses MBE, son of Louvina Moses, expressed his “regret to announce the passing of Bunny, the esteemed graffiti artist” who painted the widely loved portrait of his mother.

Co-founder of Erdington Litter Busters (ELB), Dawn Edwards, expressed the local community group’s “sincere condolences”, and praised “this very talented and thoughtful man who loved working with and in the community”.

Bunny had been commissioned by ELB to paint a mural celebrating the local volunteer community, situated on Minstead Road.

Extended family of Louvina Moses pose for group photo in front of her mural, painted by Bunny Bread, on Coton Lane, Erdington / Photograph supplied by Bunny Bread

Erdington Arts Forum also dedicated part of their November Evening of Creativity (EoC) showcase to Bunny Bread, at Oikos Café on Friday 21 November.

EoC co-founder, Claire Marshall, who was working with Bunny on a three part art installation at the Peddimore development in Sutton Coldfield, told: “Rudel James (Bunny Bread) of Create Not Destroy was one of the most incredible human beings.”

She added: “He created his best work from capturing the essence of a person or place and amplifying the beauty. It’s such a loss to not have more of his creativity, and the work he leaves behind is a gift for our communities.”

For more on Bunny Bread visit www.createnotdestroy.com

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 News desk at: community@erdingtonlocal.com

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: “The heart of this community” – beloved Slade Road shopkeepers retire after near 50 years of serving Stockland Green

(l-r) Rajinder and Ashok Kumar cutting the cake at their retirement celebration / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani

Words by Nicola Murray

For nearly five decades, Ashok Supermarket on Slade Road in Stockland Green has been more than a shop, it has been “the heart of this community”- as told by one longstanding customer.

As the established owners and operators Ashok and Rajinder Kumar retire this autumn, after 47 years of dedicated service, the neighbourhood reflects on the impact the beloved couple have had far beyond the checkout counter.

Since opening their independent supermarket and greengrocers, the Kumars have stood as cornerstones of the Stockland Green community, building relationships that stretch across families.

Outside of Ashok Supermarket on Slade Road, Stockland Green / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani

“My parents have seen generations come and go in the shop,” their daughter Rena reflected. “They have loved being a part of the community and seeing their customers have children and grandchildren… they find it very endearing that the children call them ‘Auntie’ and ‘Uncle’.”

Throughout their near 50 year tenure, the Kumars often donated both their time and resources to many causes over the years – the couple were highly active in the community, supporting local initiatives and offering both their time and resources wherever needed.

When Stockland Green needed support, as well as groceries, they always found a way to lend a helping hand – including preparing meals for local soup kitchens, donating to Macmillan Coffee Mornings at the local Methodist Church, supplying food and drinks for community events, and many more acts of support and charity.

Inside of Ashok Supermarket on Slade Road, Stockland Green / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani

Situated across the road from Stockland Green School, the couple supported teachers who went on strike by providing them with drinks on the picket line. During the Covid pandemic, the kept their shop operating for housebound customers who were reliant on regular grocery deliveries – providing a literal lifeline for those in isolation during the lockdowns.

Their active outreach work cemented them as a firm fixture in the local area, building them a family of friends as well as customers across the wider Stockland Green community. Former residents of Stockland Green would often come back to Slade Road, not just to shop but to visit Ashok and Rajinder.

After the announcement of their retirement, many friends and customers alike rallied round to wish the couple well – and to say how their absence will be felt in the community.

“They will be sorely missed,” told one long term customer ahead of the Kumar’s retirement celebration, “they’ve been the heart of this neighbourhood.”

Another expressed how they were “sad we will not be seeing your lovely smile” and how they’re “going to miss you guys.”

Dholok drum players and public outside of Ashok Supermarket during retirement celebration / Photograph supplied by Rena Rani

An official retirement party was held for Ashok and Rajinder Kumar in Stockland Green on Wednesday 1 October, where many in the community gathered to celebrate the retirement of the couple – and see them hand over the keys the next generation, who will be keeping Ashok Supermarket open for business on Slade Road.

Ashok and Rajinder received widespread well wishes from local residents, friends, and family members, which is a testament to their impact, and extended their sincere thanks to all explaining, “It’s been an honour to serve this community.”

Rajinder herself added, “It’s never just been a business. It’s been a way to serve, connect, and grow with the people around us.”

Ashok Supermarket is located at 517 Slade Road, Stockland Green.

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 or local resident anywhere in the Erdington constituency, then we want to hear from you. Please email our Community News desk at: community@erdingtonlocal.com

 

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Northside Welcome Centre – a heartfelt hub for the Perry Common community

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.

For more information on the Northside Welcome Centre visit www.northsidewelcomecentre.co.uk

Or you can email Satpal Singh at satpal_snm@yahoo.co.uk 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: hema@erdingtonlocal.com

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Erdington Walking Group – bringing the community together, one step at a time

Erdington Walking Group at Witton Lakes / Photograph supplied by EWG

Words by Hema Chumber

The Erdington Walking Group (EWG) has become a staple for local residents looking to get active, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with others.

Founded by Selina Gooden in June 2019, the group started with just six members and has steadily grown as more people have discovered the benefits of walking together.

Usually running from January to November, the group offers regular walks on Mondays and Thursdays.

The Monday evening walks are from 6:30pm to 7:30pm, while Thursday walks are bi-weekly at the same time. These times are chosen specifically to accommodate those who may work or are parents, ensuring that everyone has the chance to participate.

Erdington Walking Group at Witton Lake / Photograph supplied by EWG

The walks take place in local parks and green spaces, including Witton Lakes, Rookery Park, Perry Common Meadows, and Sorrell Park. These venues offer a variety of scenic routes, accessible to people with different fitness levels – and participants are encouraged to enjoy nature and the outdoors, as well taking part in healthy physical activity.

But the group isn’t just about walking.

Over the years, EWG has organised a range of social events that complement the outdoor activity, from trips to see live jazz at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall, to kayaking outings, art gallery visits, and even a Christmas meal for members.

Selina Gooden, founder of Erdington Walking Group, said: “I try to add at least one new experience each year for the group, to keep things interesting and varied, like a new social event or a new area to walk in.

“I’ve always enjoyed fitness since a young age, and I knew this because I was always playing sports.”

Erdington Walking Group taking part in the 10k Birmingham Wellness Walk charity fundraiser for Diabetes UK / Photograph supplied by EWG

The social aspect of the group has been key to its growth over the years, so far. Beyond the physical benefits, EWG provides a space for people to come together and form new friendships.

This inclusivity has meant people from all walks of life have been able to join in, whether they are looking to stay active or simply meet others in the community.

Selina added: “We also like to take part in things that are different to the usual walks, because this keeps everyone engaged and excited about coming along.

“Our walking group likes to connect with local services as well, so we can work together and help each other out.

“Looking after the Erdington community is key for us, and this will strengthen our relationships.”

Erdington Walking Group and partners outside Erdington Library / Photgraph supplied by EWG

EWG have also used their regular walking session to highlight local causes, such as supportring the campaigns to save Erdington and Perry Common libraries in the face of potential Council closure.

The group also hosted a special walk from Erdington Swimming Baths to the Erdington Court Bowls Club, to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the two local community hubs (check out our PICTURE GALLERY below).

Erdington Walking Group offers local residents a simple way to get active, enjoy nature, and build relationships – whilst also supporting the local causes and campaigns.

With its continued growth and its commitment to variety, the cherished group is set to remain a key part of Erdington’s local community for years to come.

Erdington Walking Group celebrate 100 year anniversaries of Erdington Swimming Baths and Erdington Court Bowls Club / Photographs supplied by EWG

For more information on Erdington Walking Group, or to get involved with the activities available, please email erdingtonwalkinggroup@hotmail.com

You Can also keep up to date with Erdington Walking Group through their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/erdingtonwalking

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: hema@erdingtonlocal.com