COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Join 12-week health and fitness programme at Witton Lakes Park from 27 January – 19 April

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

As part of a wider health initiative the Witton Lakes Eco Hub team invites you to take part in the Green Mile Challenge – a walking and running distance challenge that is inclusive to wheelchair users and designed to inspire health, fitness, and connection to nature.

Over 12 weeks, your mission is to rack up as many miles as you can, either individually or with a group. You can join anytime within the 12-weeks, but we do recommend at least 6 weeks to see progress.

Get involved in the Green Mile Challenge and enjoy:

  • Optional Free Mini Health Checks on Week 1 & 2 and 11 & 12 – Booking essential.
  • 3 Month Walking & Running Distance Challenge – Register recommended.
  • Weekly Green Steppers Walking & Striders Running Group – Starting at
  • Witton Lakes Eco Hub, off Faulkners Farm Drive, B23 7XX.
  • Witton Lakes Finale Celebration 5k Race Sat 26th April – Register to take part.

HOW IT WORKS
Our Route: It’s 1-mile all the way round both Witton Lakes! Take on our scenic 5k loop around Witton Lakes, complete with 1km markers to help track your progress. Perfect for beginners, those training for Couch to 5K or those of you aiming for a personal best on your park run!

Track Your Progress: Download and use the free Strava Fitness App to record your distance and efforts, join The Green Mile WLCA Club.(This app is compatible with all other fitness app and sports watches)

Entrance to Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Pic by Ed King

Join a Group: Take part as an individual or connect with our local walking and running groups:

  • Red Hot Chilli Steppers Walking Group – Mondays, 11am – 12:30pm: Starting point – Perry Common Community Hall, 87 Witton Lodge Road, Perry Common, B23 5JD
  • Erdington Walking Group – Mondays & Fortnightly Thursdays, 6:30pm – 7:30pm: Various Locations, email: [email protected], call 07990 109 117 or search the group via Facebook.

Every Wednesday & Thursday you can also join the Eco Hub’s weekly walking and running programmes. Meet at the Eco Hub Café.

  • Green Striders Running Group (Couch to 5K) with Jemma – Wednesdays, 9:15am – 10:15am (Beginner to Intermediate).
  • Green Steppers Walking Group with Scott – Wednesdays, 1pm – 2pm (All abilities).
    Sensory Stroll with Diane – Thursdays, 11am – 12pm (Easy Walking).
    Celebrate Your Achievement – Eco Hub & Witton Lakes 5K Race!

At the end of the challenge, we’re hosting a 5K Finale Race Event on Sat 26th April at Witton Lakes, followed by a celebration social at the Witton Lakes Eco Hub with prizes, snacks, and drinks. Bring along your family and friends to cheer you on!

Healthy food and excercise equipment / Pic from Adobe Stock Images

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BENEFITS
This inclusive programme is designed for all fitness levels and offers something for everyone:

Improve Your Health: Gain fitness, enhance your physical and mental well-being, and embrace an active lifestyle.

Spend Time Outdoors: Explore the natural beauty of Witton Lakes while enjoying fresh air.

Make Connections: Meet like-minded people and form new friendships through group activities.

Mini Health Checks
To support your journey, we’re offering free health checks during the first two and final two weeks of the challenge. These health checks include BMI (height & weight), blood pressure, heart rate and hip-to-waist ratio. Please note that health checks are optional. If you are unable to attend during these times, contact us to arrange an alternative date. We accept individual or group bookings.

Week 1 & 2 Mini Health Checks (27 Jan – 7 Feb)
Monday – Friday: 10am – 12 pm & 2pm – 4pm
Saturday 1st Feb: 10am – 12 pm

Week 11 & 12 Health Check (7 – 17 April)
Monday – Thursday: 10am – 12 pm & 2pm – 4pm
Saturday 26th April: 9am – 10 pm (Before the Finale Event)

Outside of Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Pic by Ed King

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HOW TO JOIN

It’s easy to join the Green Mile Programme, simply contact the Eco Hub Office on 0121 227 3200 or email the team, [email protected] or [email protected]

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

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

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Celebrating success and creating change on Erdington High Street

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

WLCA Chief Executive Afzal Hussain outside Health and Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King

We recently celebrated three successful years on Erdington High Street, delivering essential services to more than 7,000 residents from our Health & Wellbeing Hub.

Despite recent news of safety concerns at this location, this doesn’t reflect our first-hand experience, and we are proud that the Erdington Health and Wellbeing Hub continues to be a cornerstone of community support, offering vital services in health, employment, housing, and financial advice.

In 2021, Witton Lodge Community Association made a strategic decision to take on the empty High Street facility. By investing and expanding our services over the years, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to drive positive change on the High Street and for the Erdington community. And as many of you will know we followed this up with ambitious plans to refurbish the former Erdington baths.

In another significant development, West Midlands Police has launched Operation Fearless, a major initiative to tackle crime and improve safety in Erdington.

This operation, funded by £880,000 seized from criminals, targets issues such as drug-related activities, anti-social behaviour, and violent crimes with the dedicated team already bringing tangible improvements to community safety.

Together with local residents, groups and partners, we remain committed to improving lives and livelihoods in Erdington. By working collaboratively, we know we can create a safer, more vibrant Erdington where our community can succeed and thrive.

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.

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Witton Lodge Community Association welcomes Minister of State for Employment Alison McGovern MP

Words supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association

Minister of State for Employment McGovern & Paulette Hamilton MP meet young people at Witton Lodge / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association

On Thursday 9 January, the Minister of State for Employment Alison McGovern MP attended a special event at Witton Lodge Community Association to discuss plans for reform of employment and skills in the UK.

The visit included a roundtable discussion with the North Birmingham Economic Recovery (NBER) Board as well as hearing directly from local young people about their experiences of looking for work.

Roundtable discussion on Labour reform
Minister McGovern engaged in a productive roundtable discussion with the NBER board including Chair and Erdington MP, Paulette Hamilton who shared their work to boost the local economy in North Birmingham by connecting local businesses and residents with sustainable opportunities.

This collaborative session highlighted the critical importance of community-led approaches in shaping effective employment policies, harnessing economic growth and securing investments, creating employment opportunities and connecting these to local communities.

During the roundtable, the Minister expressed interest in the successes and lessons learned from the partnership, highlighting the importance of place-based partnerships that offer essential wrap-around support. She also discussed effective ways to assist individuals facing significant challenges in securing employment, emphasising the role of local partner organisations in providing support and strategies for their successful integration into the workforce.

Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association, remarked: “We’re thrilled to welcome Minister McGovern and showcase our youth-focused initiatives at Witton Lodge and the progress of the North Birmingham Economic Recovery Board.

“Our community-driven strategy is creating opportunities for young people, addressing the critical challenges of youth unemployment in our area. Through collaborative efforts, we’re developing sustainable pathways to connect local young people with meaningful job prospects and skills development programmes, ensuring a brighter economic future for our next generation.”

Minister of State for Employment McGovern and Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton meet NBER Board Witton Lodge / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association

Youth employment and skills workshop
Following the roundtable, the Minister actively participated in a busy employment and skills workshop with local young people, organised by Witton Lodge Community Association. This session provided key insights into employment and career opportunities for young people in our local area, aligning with NBER’s commitment to creating jobs and enhancing training opportunities tailored to community needs.

This hands-on session provided a unique opportunity for Minister McGovern to directly engage with local young people and hear their firsthand experiences and ideas about employment and career prospects.

During the session the participants provided key insights into employment and career opportunities for young people in our local area, revealing concerns about inadequate careers advice, lack of work experience opportunities, and challenges in securing employment due to insufficient childcare provision. It also highlighted the need for more accessible and user-friendly alternatives to traditional job centres that sometimes fall short in providing tailored support for young people.

During the workshop, the Minister listened intently as young participants shared their perspectives on the challenges, they face in the job market and shared some of the government’s plans for improving career opportunities for youth employment.

Minister for Employment Alison McGovern said: “The fantastic work being done here at Witton Lodge Community Association to support young people into employment is exactly what our Get Britain Working Plan is all about.

“As part of these reforms, we will be launching a Youth Guarantee trailblazer in the West Midlands to ensure all 18-21-years-olds are earning or learning. At the same time, we are transforming Jobcentres and connecting local work, health and skills services to boost employment, drive up opportunity and spread prosperity here in Erdington and across the country.”

Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton welcomes Minister for Employment Alison McGovern to Witton Lodge Community Association

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.

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: 5 Tips for an eco-friendly Christmas!

Words and graphic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association

Every year in the UK, a staggering 8 million real Christmas trees are tossed aside, contributing approximately 12,000 tonnes of waste to our landfills. This Christmas, we wanted to provide some eco-friendly tips for disposing your Christmas tree which are guaranteed to put you on Santa’s nice list!

Number One – Re-using your Artificial Trees
Artificial trees are made from a combination of materials and therefore cannot be recycled. Re- use your artificial trees as long as you can!

Number Two – Re-planting Trees
Mark out the area where the tree’s roots will spread, adding an extra 1–2 ft. Dig a hole that’s 2–3 times the width of the tree’s root ball and 1–2 in less deep than the height of the root ball. Please be aware that Christmas trees grow to an average 1 foot in height per year but this can vary from with different types.

Number Three – Recycling Trees
Trees can also be disposed of at any of the city’s five Household Recycling Centres:
• Sutton Coldfield, B75 7BB
• Perry Barr, B42 2TU
• Castle Bromwich, B35 7AG
• Tyseley, B11 2BA
• Kings Norton B30 3JT

Number Four – Recycling Real Trees
Birmingham City Council offers a free Christmas tree recycling service from December 26 to January 31, trees can be dropped off at parks across Birmingham from 9AM – 4PM. The nearest drop off point for Erdington residents is: Sutton Park, Visitor Centre, adjacent to Town Gate, B74 2YT.

Volunteers on the Treecycling campaign with Birmingham Hospice

Number Five – Christmas Tree Collection – Birmingham Hospice
The Birmingham Hospice has organised a Christmas tree recycling programme called Tree- cycling. On the 11th and 12th of January, Birmingham Hospice’s volunteers will collect and recycle Christmas trees in return for a donation.

They will be covering the following postcodes: B13, B14, B15, B17, B26, B27, B28, B29, B30, B31, B32, B38, B90, B91, B92.

Book your collection with Birmingham Hospice today by clicking HERE.

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.

 

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: When the bonds of community are tested

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Your Voice, Your Vote

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NEWS: Warren Farm Urgent Treatment Centre “temporarily relocating” to Erdington High Street

Words and pics by Ed King

Warren Farm Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) will be “temporarily relocating” to Erdington High Street, healthcare bosses have announced.

From Tuesday 11 June, the Kingstanding facility, which supported local residents with immediate medical issues, will be “fully operational” from the Erdington Health and Wellbeing Hub – a few doors down from The Church Tavern and opposite Lloyds Bank in Erdington Town Centre.

After relocating to Erdington Town Centre, NHS bosses have also told the newly located facility will be renamed the North Birmingham UTC.

Warren Farm UTC is being closed after it was discovered panels in the roof had been constructed with Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC), posing a serious health risk to both staff and patients.

David Melbourne, Chief Executive of NHS Birmingham and Solihull, said: “The decision to move the Urgent Treatment Centre is not one which has been taken lightly, but I want to emphasise that this is a temporary relocation.”

He added: “We are in the very early stages of a review of the provision of all six UTCs operating across the city and borough, and will be seeking the views of our communities to ensure provision meets the needs of our patients and families.”

But in a strange twist of fate, the new home of the Warren Farm UTC is the old home of the Erdington UTC, which was shut down in 2020 and relocated Stockland Green despite widespread protest from local residents and elected officials – including Erdingotn’s previous MP Jack Dromey, who passed away in January 2022.

And whilst residents in Erdington Town Centre may be pleased to see the return of an Urgent Treatment Centre back on the High Street, people living in Kingstanding are still unsure what immediate medical facilities, if any, they will have in their area.

This has led to protests and petitions by both Kingstanding residents and politicians, akin to those that followed the decision to close Erdington’s UTC.

However, a spokesperson for the NHS added: “No decisions about the permanent location of Warren Farm Urgent Treatment Centre will be made without a full engagement process, which will provide the local community with opportunities to share their views and experiences.”

Recently elected Kingstanding Councillor Clifton Welch (Conservative) further told Erdington Local: “I have been clear that Warren Farm Urgent Care Centre must be retained long term.

“The current building has structural issues which need to be repaired, but I have already met with the local NHS with Cllr Robert Alden (Erdington, Conservative) to consider possible ways to save the services locally.”

He added: “I understand there will be a consultation later in the year and I will be doing all I can to ensure that in North Birmingham we retain the Urgent Care Centre in Kingstanding and the Walk in Centre in Erdington.”

COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Reflections and renewed focus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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