Paulette Hamilton MP at the official launch of Operation Feareless at Villa Park / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
I’m thrilled to kick off the new year by sharing some exciting updates about our amazing communities across Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott.
After years of relentless campaigning, I’m proud to announce that we’ve secured £880,000 for Operation Fearless through the proceeds of crime funding, headed up by Simon Foster, Labour’s Police and Crime Commissioner.
This initiative is a game-changer for tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, breathing new life into Erdington High Street – the beating heart of our community. Leading this campaign has been an absolute honour, and working with local residents, traders, the police, and the council has truly shown what we can achieve when we work together.
While this funding is a major step forward, it’s just the start of our journey to transform the high street. I remain committed to making our high streets a safe, welcoming, and inspiring place for everyone.
Paulette Hamilton MP and young people with Labour’s Minister for the Department for Work and Pensions, Alison McGovern MP, at Witton Lodge Community Association / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
Another highlight was welcoming Alison McGovern MP, Labour’s Minister for the Department for Work and Pensions, to Erdington. During her visit, she engaged with young people at the Witton Lodge Community Association and joined discussions with the North Birmingham Economic Recovery Board, which I proudly chair.
We also visited the Erdington Jobcentre to hear from work coaches about their experiences in helping local residents into employment.
Erdington is truly making its mark, attracting vital funding and national attention. These achievements reflect the strength of our community and our shared determination to create a better and safer future for all.
Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
Erdington High Street has been known as a crime hotspot for several years, with endemic shoplifting underpinning broad daylight drug dealing and a rouges gallery of anti-social behaviour.
But it used to be different, very different. It used to be known as one of Birmingham’s most vibrant retail hubs, with thousands of confident shoppers and respected national brands clamouring for frontage.
Now West Midlands Police have launched Operation Fearless and are set to invest over 20 new officers and £880,000 to tackle criminality on and around Erdington High Steet.
Erdington Local attended the maiden voyage of this ambitious new policing strategy, asking just what impact it hopes to make in the once proud and prominent Erdington Town Centre.
Chief Constable Craig GUildford outside official launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park / Pic by Ed King
“We’ve only been up and running since the end of November and we’ve already banned two prolific shoplifters,” explains West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford, standing on the sun warmed steps of Villa Park at the official launch of Operation Fearless – a slow tide of media and local partners drifting into the conference room below.
“It’s already working quite well and on the back of the prosecutions, with the support of the Crown Prosecution Service, we’ve got a court order which bans [the shoplifters] from the High Street. Now that’s a really good success.”
Chief Constable Guildford is a no-nonsense copper, with a calm and authoritative air, and a look that would not be out of place in a Sergio Leone Western. After becoming the region’s top police officer he reportedly broke up a fight on Bearwood High Street whilst off duty getting a coffee.
Guildford was brought into post in December 2022, appointed by Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, with a mandate to bring back robust community policing, and terms like ‘working with local partners’ and ‘local police presence’ have peppered documents that have come from his office ever since.
Promotional flyers for Operation Fearless / Pic by Ed King
Indeed, the first-person introduction to the West Midlands Police Neighbourhood Policing Ambition strategy, which sets the local operations aims until 2026, states how ‘affinity and pride in local teams helps us tackle criminality’ before confirming they will ‘listen to and work with the public, partners, voluntary groups… to protect local people and places.’
But Erdington High Street has been arguably a failed case study in community cohesion, with revolving door Sergeants and stripped back public patrols doing little to quell the growing frustration of both local residents and business. And even less to reduce the crime statistics, which UKCrimeStats places at one of the worst in Birmingham – beaten only by Ladywood, Hodge Hill, and Perry Barr.
And the apathy in reporting crimes, especially from the frustrated at best and frightened at worst retailers on the High Street, could nudge these numbers even higher, with many calling for the reopening of the Erdington Police Station front desk and giving up on their unanswered calls to the 101 and 999 emergency numbers.
Promotional vehicles at official launch of Operation Fearless / Pic by Ed King
It’s a problem across the region, and Chief Constable Guildford admits when he took on his role West Midlands Police were “very poor at answering the telephone, compared to lots of police forces.” Around the same time, prominent Erdington retailers were reporting being on hold for up to an hour when trying to report crimes by calling 101.
Thankfully, the average response time for WMP call handlers has dramatically improved, with 101 at 10 seconds and an almost immediate pick up for 999 emergency calls.
Proud of this “radical shift”, Chief Constable Guildford further urges people to “get the phone picked up, let us know, or stop one of the bobbies that are walking past.” The equation is simple, he says: “We need to know what’s happening to be able to act on it; we’ve got the resources to do it, and we want to be doing it more and more.”
“But first and foremost,” he continues, when quizzed about the arrest to prosecution ratio many retailers feel has also waned on Erdington High Street, “there has to be a consequence; if you prolifically shoplift, you need to be going to court, and the courts need to be determining your future.” And cue the quote used in our headline.
Police car with Operation Skybridge branding parked opposite Erdington Train Station / Pic by Ed King
Operation Fearless officially launched on Tuesday 7 January, but it’s team of 20 officers – who have been recruited, according to WMP, for their “very diverse skill set” – have been operating for several weeks. Indeed, the Sutton Coldfield and Erdington Chief Inspector, Shameem Ahmed, was seconded to give the new policing initiative some valuable local knowledge.
But why now, and why Erdington? “I think it’s probably fair to say I’ve been to Erdington High Street more than any other high street in the entirety of the West Midlands,” tells Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, mirroring a point Erdington Local is often quick to make too.
“I’ve attended resident’s meetings, I’ve been on Erdington High Street with the Street Pastors, with West Midlands Police, with [Erdington Local], and attended numerous resident’s meetings. So, I’ve listened; I’ve heard about the challenges and the impact that the crime and anti-social behaviour on Erdington High Street has had and today is about taking the action that is necessary to address those issues.”
But really, why now? What has been the tipping point to push for this extra policing attention in Erdington Town Centre?
Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster outside official launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park / Pic by Ed King
“In terms of ensuring we can launch Operation Fearless immediately I am investing nearly a million pounds of proceeds of crime – seized from criminals,” explains Foster, identifying the curious irony of modern day police funding, that raids made from one end of the High Street will fuel patrols at the other. And if the proceeds of crime cookie jar was always within reach, are we not a little late with our sticky fingers?
But as Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton states at the opening of her speech, to a room of around 150 delegates from local community groups, stakeholders, referral agencies, and citywide partners, “Thank God. We’ve got a New Year [and] we’ve finally got some [police] work going on in Erdington that is so, so, so overdue… high streets are the heartbeats of communities, and if we don’t have our high street, we lose our community.”
And about three miles north of the high-ranking officials and back slapping hyperbole, sits Erdington High Street – the wounded animal stuck in a poacher’s trap.
Police and Operation Fearless branded van on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant
For those of you who don’t know, and to remind those may find it hard to remember, Erdington Town Centre was once one of the busiest retail hubs in Birmingham – boasting national brands from Woolworth to Marks and Spencer and thousands of confident shoppers. A fall from grace that makes today an even sadder reality.
But since October last year, when Operation Skybridge set the foundations for Operation Fearless to build on, the High Street both looks and feels better. And areas where you could once buy everything from weed to crack, in the doorway of a family supermarket, are now empty, with the dealers not just moved but gone completely.
“I have noticed the difference so much it’s unbelievable” tells Averil Keatley, who volunteers at St Barnabas Church where many of the aforementioned drug deals (and indeed drug use) would take place. “You could go over to the bookies and you’d get stoned as you’d walk past. But that’s cleared up now.”
She adds: “I do not feel as intimidated. I haven’t noticed as many syringes either (in the St Barnabas churchyard).”
Erdington local resident Averil Keatley outside St Barnabas Church on Erdington High Street / PIc by Ed King
Further down the High Street, Elaine from Everyone Erdington is leaving the library and heading out into the Town Centre. “They’re really putting a lot of effort in,” she exclaims, also acknowledging an increase in police presence over recent months, “and they’ve arrested a lot of people for drug dealing.”
Her friend, Pauline, from Erdington Lunar Society, quickly mirrors the most noticeable change. “Somebody’s just said to me how they’re happy to shop at Iceland again now,” she tells, “because the drug dealers outside there have now gone.”
Extra police presence and working with partners seem to be working, and these simple yet effective first steps are now turning to strides on Erdington High Street. But fanfare can soon become cacophony, with most negative comments about Operation Fearless being veiled concerns as to how it will make any real and lasting impact.
(l-r) Cllr Gareth Moores and Cllr Robert Alden next to Operation Fearless branded van on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by Cllr Alden
“Hopefully [Operation Fearless] can crack down on the serious anti-social behaviour and crime that’s been taking place on the High Street,” tells Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden, who lives with his young family near Erdington Town Centre, sits as Chair of the Erdington Business Improvement District, and has spearheaded the area’s repeated campaigns for a Public Space Protection Order.
“And the key thing is now there’s all these additional officers here is making sure both businesses and residents report any crime that they see… because there are the officers here now to deal with them.”
He adds: “It might be a partial numberplate, it might be a partial description, but [people need to report] it in directly to the police. Because that information will get used and pooled together with other intelligence and enable [the police] to carry out raids, to get warrants, and put people behind bars.”
Sign identifying the boundaries of the Public Space Protection Order in Erdington Town Centre / Pic by Ed King
“Regeneration is key too,” explains Erdington Ward Councillor Gareth Moore, who sits on Birmingham City Council’s Planning Committee and watches communities expand and decline across the city. “Because you want businesses to come and invest, to create jobs and a good local economy and thriving local centre – and they’re not going to do that if people don’t feel safe.”
And borrowing some rhetoric from those with less direct knowledge of what Erdington was, is, and could be again, Cllr Moore concludes: “It’s really important we get the crime issues addressed… we don’t want it to be a ‘no-go area for residents’, we want it to be a no-go area for crime.”
Official launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park and on Erdington High Street 07.01.25 / Pics by Joe Marchant, Ed King, West Midlands Police
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
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Words by Ed King / Pics by Joe Marchant, Ed King, and supplied by West Midlands Police
Operation Fearless team on Erdington High Street / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police
On Tuesday 7 January, West Midlands Police (WMP) launched Operation Fearless with an afternoon of strong police presence on Erdington High Steet – in “a major new drive to bring down crime” across the troubled retail hub.
Starting with a special event at Villa Park, WMP invited Erdington local stakeholders and representatives of community groups to hear from Chief Constable Craig Guildford and Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster about their ambitions to make Erdington High Street a safer place to live, shop, and visit.
Following their presentations, Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton (Labour) expressed her relief and gratitude at the extra police attention, telling around 150 delegates “Thank God, we finally have some [extra police] work going on in Erdington” which she further expressed was “so, so, so overdue.”
Chief Constable Craig Guildford adress delegates at Operation Fearless launch, Villa Park / Pic supplied by West Midlands Police)
The Erdington Ward elected officials, Cllr Robert Alden (Conservative) and Cllr Gareth Moore (Conservative), were also present at the launch and further expressed their appreciation of the increased police activity – having campaigned for years to increase patrols and uniformed presence in Erdington Town Centre.
Operation Fearless states it will work with citywide and hyperlocal partners to reduce crime in the area, including “Birmingham City Council and other agencies such as immigration, bus and rail companies.”
Moving up to the High Street itself, the new police team came out in force for the afternoon – establishing a knife wand and detector pole at Erdington Police Station, and bringing sniffer dogs, drones, horse mounted patrols, and extended foot patrols in a significant show of police presence in the Town Centre.
Officers with knife wand at Erdington Train Station / Pic by Ed King
Following on from Operation Skybridge that launched – again on Erdington High Street – last October, Operation Fearless will see a dedicated team of 20 new officers working in Erdington Town Centre tackling crimes from drug dealing and shoplifting to anti-social behaviour and assault.
Headed by Detective Superintendent Jim Munro, who is known for his work on WMP’s Homicide team, Operation Fearless has so far arrested several people in connection with crimes including drug dealing and burglary.
The special initiative also recently arrested six men for conspiracy to defraud, following a joint operation with Birmingham City Council’s Trading Standards team where over half a million pound worth of counterfeit and illicit goods were seized form the High Street. The £500,000 plus haul included cigarettes, vapes, and unregulated prescription medication.
Detective Superintendent Jim Munro taking to media at Operation Fearless launch on Erdington High Street / Pic by Joe Marchant
Whilst out with the Operation Fearless police team on Tuesday 7 January, Detective Superintendent Jim Munro told Erdington Local: “We’ve got problems here and now, there’s no two ways about that. Theft, anti-social behaviour, open drug dealing or drug taking… all key things that, quite rightly, concern the community. We know that [Erdington High Street] has also been a hotspot previously for youth violence.
“So those are the things we need to address straight away, and we need to look at those issues and how we look to deter offending. And how we look to reduce that and put people through the criminal process if appropriate.”
He added: “But in terms of bringing back Erdington High Street to the village that it was, we’ve got to work with wider partnerships. It’s wider than the Council. We’ve got to encourage people to reinvest in this area and, quite rightly, people will be reluctant to do that if they feel the area is blighted by anti-social behaviour and crime.
“So our view will be that we will continue to work here in Erdington as long as necessary to hand it into a place, where we feel, it is sustainable.”
Official launch of Operation Fearless at Villa Park and on Erdington High Street 07.01.25
Paulette Hamilton MP attending Remembrance Day event at Abbey Primary School / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
(Ed’s note – this column was written for the Erdington Local printed edition and first published on 20.12.24)
Last month has been one of celebration, remembrance, and important parliamentary debates. I was delighted to join the 30th anniversary celebrations of Witton Lodge Community Association, a cornerstone of our community.
Their remarkable achievements over three decades are a testament to the strength and power of what local communities can achieve by working together.
On Remembrance Day, I had the privilege of joining Abbey Primary School for a heartfelt ceremony to honour those who gave their lives for our freedoms. Their moving tribute reminded us of the sacrifices that form the foundation of our liberties today.
In Parliament, the Assisted Dying Bill sparked an emotional debate. After much thought, I voted against the Bill, with 70% of the constituents who contacted me urging the same. As a former NHS nurse, I firmly believe in the dignity and value of every life.
Paulette Hamilton MP in Westminster, London / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
I remain deeply concerned about introducing such a law, particularly when our NHS is already overstretched. I am committed to championing improved palliative care, working with Hospice UK, Birmingham Hospice, and others to ensure no one is left without the support they need at the end of life.
November also marked 50 years since the Birmingham Pub Bombings, a heartbreaking chapter in our city’s history. I have written to the Home Secretary, calling for justice for the victims and their families.
As we approach the festive season, I wish everyone in Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
Paulette Hamilton MP for Erdington, BIrmingham, in Westminster / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
(Ed’s note – this column was written for the Erdington Local printed edition and first published on 15.11.24)
At the end of October, the Chancellor delivered the autumn budget – the first under a Labour government in 14 years. After over a decade of Conservative mismanagement, we’re finally taking steps to rebuild Britain and restore faith in our economy.
This budget focuses on the issues that matter most: fixing the NHS, raising wages, supporting our schools, and strengthening our communities – all without increasing taxes on working people.
So, what does this mean for Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale and South Oscott?
First, the increase in the National Living Wage will benefit thousands locally, putting more money in the pockets of hardworking families.
Our NHS will receive a £25.6 billion boost over the next two years, ensuring more appointments and better care for all. Schools will see a £2.3 billion increase in funding, 6,500 more teachers, and a £30 million investment in free breakfast clubs, ensuring every child starts the day ready to learn.
To tackle crime, we’re ending the neglect of low-value shoplifting and other petty crimes slipping through the cracks.
This budget funds 13,000 more neighbourhood officers and PCSOs, so our streets and local traders – like those at Erdington High Street, Slade Road and Kingstanding Precinct – will be safer. And with £500 million to fix potholes, our roads will finally see the improvements they deserve.
This budget fixes the foundations to deliver change, with working people and local communities at its heart. It’s the reset our economy and country have needed.
It’s been another busy month across Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale and South Oscott, despite the Parliament recess for conference season.
I have had the opportunity to visit some of our amazing community groups, such as Northside Welcome Centre and Growth Path, who do incredible work supporting local people.
Recently, I held my regular Erdington High Street meeting, where I met with residents, traders, Birmingham City Council representatives, and the police to discuss ongoing efforts to address the issues plaguing Erdington High Street.
During this meeting, I also shared the results of my survey, which highlighted the main concerns of residents and their suggestions for improvements. The full survey results are available on my website – www.paulettehamilton.org
Paulette Hamilton MP at meeting with local police
I am pleased to report that, as part of Operation Skybridge in Erdington, the police have successfully removed drugs from the streets and made several arrests. This is a welcome step forward in our fight against crime.
Additionally, I recently hosted the Kingstanding Crime Conference with the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster and local police. Residents voiced their concerns about crime and antisocial behaviour, and I am delighted to see that Kingstanding residents are now exploring local initiatives to support our collective efforts.
Addressing crime and antisocial behaviour remains a top priority for me. I am committed to working closely with our partners, the police, and residents to ensure our community remains safe and our neighbourhoods secure.
As a result of the parliamentary boundary review and subsequent general election, South Oscott is now part of the Erdington constituency. So, I was delighted to host a meeting with local residents to hear their priorities and concerns.
It was wonderful to meet so many residents who shared their experiences and told me about the improvements they would like to see. I am determined to engage, listen and champion every corner of our community.
Elsewhere in the constituency, I am leading a campaign to stop another HMO in Kingstanding. After hearing the concerns of local residents, I have organised a petition that has collected hundreds of signatures.
I plan to submit a formal objection to the planning committee and encourage local residents to do the same, emphasising issues such as overcrowding, noise, parking problems, and the potential negative impact on the character of the neighbourhood.
I recently attended the Erdington and Kingstanding libraries consultation carried out by Birmingham City Council. At the meetings, I made it clear that I wholeheartedly support keeping our local libraries open, as I believe closing them would have a negative impact on our community.
I also want to place on record my gratitude to local organisations, such as the Erdington Lunar Society and Friends of Erdington Library, for their tireless campaigning on this crucial issue.
Their dedication is inspiring, and I am proud to stand alongside these dedicated groups in their fight to preserve these important community resources.
According to official Westminster sources, Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton has ‘no vote recorded’ over the plans to block contentious cuts to the winter fuel allowance – which would affect approximately 10 million pensioners across the UK.
After a motion to annul the Social Fund Winter Fuel Payment Regulations 2024 was brought to the House by the Conservative Party, all Labour MPs were expected to follow the party line and support the proposed cuts – with a vote against the motion to be held on Tuesday 10 September.
But with ‘no vote recorded’ against Ms Hamilton after a heated debate and subsequent ballot in the House of Commons earlier today, this makes the Erdington MP one of 53 Labour MPs across the country who did not succumb to the party whip.
Following the Chancellor’s announcement in July that a £22bn “black hole” in public finances would see the winter fuel allowance become means tested, the proposed cuts received significant backslash – with many arguing it would put the burden of the country’s finances on the most vulnerable, instead of addressing tax reforms to recoup the deficit.
Looking to push through the changes without a vote in the House, Prime Minister and Labour Party Leader Sir Keir Starmer had previously suspended seven ‘rebel’ MPs who initially stood against the Government on the two-child benefit cap – showing a hard line approach to any internal party opposition.
However, following a challenge from the Conservatives to scrap the proposed cuts a vote was scheduled for Tuesday 10 September – with 348 MPs voting against the motion to annul the changes, and 228 backing it.
72 MPs were identified as having ‘no vote recorded’, effectively abstaining from the vote, 52 of which were Labour Members of Parliament – going directly against the Government’s calls for party unity on the issue.
Labour MP for Normanton and Hemsworth, Jon Trickett, voted in favour of the motion to annul the Government’s proposals to the Social Fund Winter Fuel Payment.
Other Midlands MPs with ‘no vote recorded’ in the Commons today are Tahir Ali (Hall Green and Moseley, Labour), Cat Eccles (Stourbridge, Labour), and Sarah Edwards (Tamworth, Labour).
In statement to Erdington Local, Ms Hamilton MP told: “I recognise concerns about the recent changes the Chancellor has made to the Winter Fuel Payments Scheme and that’s why I met with Age UK in July to hear about these directly.
“The new Government is having to make really tough decisions, after our economy was wrecked by the last Government, who left a £22bn black hole in the public finances.”
She added: “I know that people in Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale and South Oscott will be feeling worried about this decision, especially in the run up to winter and I want to assure them that I will continue to put pressure on people in my party to protect the most vulnerable in society and explore alternative means through which to reduce the deficit.”
Birmingham Conservatives Leader and Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden told: “This decision by the Labour Government will be devastating for thousands of pensioners across Erdington Constituency.
“It is estimated that over 11,000 pensioners in Erdington Constituency and over 117,000 across the City of Birmingham, will have their winter fuel allowance removed just as the cold weather approaches.
“Labour has, for years, said these payments were vital for saving lives, yet within weeks of being elected they are slashing these very payments.”
Cllr Alden added: “The reality is this cut to the Winter Fuel Allowance is a direct attack on low income pensioners across Erdington and Birmingham. Labour is forcing them to choose between heating their homes and putting food on the table – which Labour’s own research has said will potentially kill 4000 people.
“This isn’t fiscal responsibility—it’s cruel and unnecessary and Labour MPs should have backed the Conservative oppositions motion to stop these cuts.”
Words by Ed King / Pics supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
Erdington’s Member of Parliament, Paullette Hamilton (Labour), has invited local residents living in South Oscott to ‘have a cuppa with your new MP’.
In an event held at Maryvale Community Centre on Saturday 7 September, from 12noon to 2pm, Ms Hamilton is looking to engage in “a relaxed conversation” with people in the area and gain “a clear understanding of the key issues in South Oscott”.
She is further hoping that the chance to meet face to face with their Member of Parliament will “ensure that locals [in South Oscott] feel confident in approaching [her] with any concerns.”
Anyone wanting to attend can be signed in at the event, with no advance booking necessary. Security will be present by a spokesperson from the MP’s office has said they will “keep it informal”.
Having retained her seat in the recent General Election – beating the Reform UK parliamentary, Jack Brookes, by 7019 votes and the Conservative candidate, Steve Knee, by 9372 votes – Paulette Hamilton continues to hold a strong majority in the traditionally Labour seat.
But following boundary changes to Erdington constituency in 2024, Ms Hamilton is now the voice in Parliament for the entire Kinsgstanding Ward and half of the Oscott Ward.
Oscott Ward is represented in Birmingham City Council by Cllr Barbara Dring (Labour) and Cllr Darius Sandhu (Conservative).
Paulette Hamilton MP told Erdington Local: “Two months ago, I had the honour of being re-elected as the Member of Parliament for Birmingham Erdington, now proudly representing South Oscott and the whole of Kingstanding. When I said I wanted to champion the concerns of local people, I meant every word.
“This is why I am keen to get stuck in, listen to residents’ concerns, and campaign on their priorities. I believe in the power of personal connection, which is why I am inviting local people from South Oscott to join me for a cup of tea or coffee.”
She added: “Let’s have a relaxed conversation where (they can see the real me – someone who genuinely cares and listens.
“I am committed to being a strong voice for every corner of our community in Parliament, ensuring that no area and no community feels left behind.”
Paullette Hamiliton already holds five monthly ‘MP surgeries’ across the Erdington constituency, with one to one sessions held in Kingstanding, Perry Common, Erdington, Stockland Green, and Castle Vale.
The MP’s office also organises special immigration advice sessions at Perry Common Hall on Wednesdays.
At the time of writing is was unclear if there would be additional regular MP surgeries organised in the Oscott Ward.
However, a spokesperson from the MP’s office confirmed: “Paulette [Hamilton] knows how important it is for local people to access their MP” and they are “looking for a suitable arrangement” for residents in the area.