Generic image of young people working in a classroom / Photograph taken from Adobe Stock Images
Words by Emma Winmill, Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)
If you’ve got teenagers revising at the moment, you may recognise the pattern: procrastination, followed by long hours trying to catch up, and suddenly the whole house feels tense.
It might feel like the answer is to just work longer, but research suggests something different. Most of us concentrate best in short bursts of around 25 to 40 minutes, followed by a proper break.
This approach helps the brain process and retain information more effectively. By contrast, revising for hours without stopping often leads to overload, where much of what’s learned is quickly forgotten.
Breaks are not wasted time. Getting outside, moving around, or doing something enjoyable helps reset focus and reduce stress.
At Urban Devotion Birmingham, we see every young person as more than how they do at school. Exams matter, but they do not define who someone is or what they can become. Every young person has their own strengths, and part of our role is helping them recognise that.
So this exam season, aim for balance. Encourage steady revision, proper rest, and time to recharge. We will be there every weekday, providing spaces for young people to rest and reset. Visit www.urbandevotion.org/activities for details.
And remember, success is not just about results. It is also about being well, growing in confidence, and holding onto hope for what comes next.
WLCA Chief Officer Afzal Hussain standing outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King
Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association
At Witton Lodge Community Association many of our services are aimed at providing support when life becomes unstable, and in recent years cost of living pressures has meant demand has never been greater.
Every day, residents come to us in need of urgent support: help with benefits and debt, energy costs, housing worries or some other challenge life has thrown up. These moments matter, but we don’t stop there.
As a community anchor, we provide practical help, advice, and human connection when people need it most. This support creates stability; it starts to restore confidence and gives people breathing space.
However, what I believe truly defines Witton Lodge, is what happens next.
From the outset, our services are designed to stabilise and then act as a springboard – crisis support can and does become a gateway to new possibilities: skills development, volunteering, employment, and enterprise opportunities.
We actively work with people to identify ambition as well as need, ensuring that immediate support is matched by hope and possibility.
This springboard approach came to life at our recent Youth Employment and Social Enterprise celebration event. The energy in the room reflected everything we stand for. Young people who had once needed support were stepping forward as future employees and entrepreneurs.
Local employers and partners saw first‑hand how investing in potential, not just qualifications, transforms lives and communities. Our entrepreneurs and social enterprises were celebrated as proof that community‑led solutions can generate both purpose and prosperity.
In challenging times, safety nets are vital. But at Witton Lodge, we also believe in nurturing talent to help our communities thrive and flourish.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Group gathered outside Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Words by Witton Lodge Community Association
Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) hosted a landmark celebration to honour the achievements of local residents in reaching a significant milestone for youth employment, social entrepreneurship and volunteering in North Birmingham.
Held on 31 March, the event was presided over by Erdington MP, Paulette Hamilton, who was joined by community leaders to recognise three pillars of community growth successfully facilitated by WLCA.
The celebration served as a showcase for the WOW! (World of Work) Youth Trailblazer initiative which provided tailored support to help young people overcome barriers to employment, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to secure meaningful roles.
Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton speaking at community celebration event in Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA
It also honoured the latest cohort of aspiring local entrepreneurs who have successfully completed Witton Lodge’s latest Social Enterprise programme. Over the last five months these men and women presented a diverse range of business models – including new Community Interest Companies (CICs) and creative startups – designed to tackle local social issues. Their pitches demonstrated a unique blend of business acumen and a commitment to social good.
A full Perry Common Community Hall heard inspiring stories from several successful candidates who shared their personal journeys with an audience of over 70 invited guests.
“Seeing the diverse range of business pitches was truly inspiring,” said Marcia Lewis, Employment and Enterprise Advisor at WLCA.
“They’ve shown a unique blend of business acumen and a deep commitment to social good.”
With the event celebrating community impact, a well-earned spotlight shone on the selfless contributions of Witton Lodge’s dedicated volunteers.
Guest speaker at community celebration event in Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Chair of the organisation, Linda Hines, MBE, paid special tribute to the amazing men and women who continue to give their time to support other people. WLCA is proud to have an incredible team of volunteers who dedicate their time each week to supporting their local community – contributing more than 1,700 hours of service last year. From running local projects to providing peer support, these volunteers remain the backbone of North Birmingham’s resilience.
Linda commented: “Our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do. Their selflessness ensures that no-one in North Birmingham has to walk their path alone.”
With certificates of achievement presented to all WOW! Youth Trailblazer and Social Enterprise participants as well as the volunteers, Paulette Hamilton MP, was keen to emphasise the importance of cohesive and collaborative community support.
“Investing in young people is investing in the future,” she said.
“Witton Lodge has a proud history of supporting local communities to develop talent so people can become the best they can be.”
WLCA staff and active community members outside Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer at WLCA, summed up the feeling of everyone who had attended.
“When a community invests in its own people, everyone thrives,” he said.
“The success of the WOW! Youth Trailblazer participants and the vision of the new social entrepreneurs serve as a powerful blueprint for the future of North Birmingham.”
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Representation of boulder pulled back from Jesus’ tomb on Easter Sunday / Image from Adobe Stock Images
Words by Joel Goodlet, Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)
On the very first Easter Sunday, John’s gospel tells us that a woman called Mary Magdalene was alone in the empty tomb where Jesus had been buried.
Two of Jesus’ more famous male followers have found the tomb empty, inspected the folded burial clothes and left with a story they don’t yet understand.
Mary can’t leave. John tells us that she walks into the tomb with tears in her eyes.
When the risen Jesus appears and calls her name, he stands between her and the world she has left behind to grieve him. She turns. In a society that didn’t accept women as legal witnesses, the Bible tells us God chose Mary as the first witness of the resurrection.
This year our TV screens and social media feeds have been filling up with news of violence and abuses of power. The peace of a struggling planet seems fragile. Perhaps you’ve felt like Mary. Perhaps you’ve turned your back on the world. Perhaps this Easter feels like a time of grief.
At UDB, we believe Easter Sunday’s story.
What Mary discovered remains true today. The hidden and the hurting have not been overlooked. There is a reason to turn your gaze back out to the world. It’s worth letting the sunrise show you how this day might look more hopeful.
There are so many sad, terrifying stories all around us in 2026. But there is another story, too. There is a hope that outlasts them all.
Staff at Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) engaging in community outreach work / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Words by Witton Lodge Community Association
Residents across Birmingham are being offered a unique opportunity to become a catalyst for change in their communities.
The Birmingham Community Health Champions programme is officially open for applications, inviting passionate individuals to step forward, gain expert knowledge and lead the way towards a healthier, more informed and connected city.
Funded by Birmingham City Council’s Public Health Team and delivered in partnership with Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA), the initiative is designed to bridge the gap between health services and local residents.
Building Connections
By empowering ‘trusted voices’ within the community, the programme aims to ensure that vital health information isn’t just a list of statistics for people to access but a supportive conversation between friends and neighbours.
The benefits of joining the programme and becoming a Community Health Champion are extensive. People will benefit from:
Professional Training: Gain free, monthly expert-led training on critical topics including mental health, nutrition, cardiovascular health, diabetes and air quality.
Personal Growth: Develop communication skills, build your CV and grow your confidence.
Flexibility: The role is designed to fit around your life. Whether you have hours to spare or just a few minutes for a chat, your contribution matters.
Full Support: Champions receive ongoing guidance and all travel expenses are fully reimbursed.
Tackling Inequalities
Waheed Saleem, Head of Programmes and Partnerships at Witton Lodge, added: “Community Health Champions will be trusted voices within their communities.
“By using the knowledge gained through the programme they will be able to make a real difference.
“Anyone with a passion to make a difference can join. This is a great opportunity to address health inequalities and improve wellbeing across Birmingham.”
A lack of experience is no barrier to becoming a Community Health Champion. People don’t need a medical background or prior work experience in a medical or health setting, they just need to have a genuine desire to help others.
The programme provides all the tools people need to share practical, accessible health advice through everyday conversations.
Joining is simple. Interested residents can apply via the Volunteer Brum platform by completing an Expression of Interest form. This is followed by a friendly introductory conversation and a comprehensive induction session.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
(l-r) John Lambert – Chair of Reform UK’s Erdingotn Branch, and Reform UK local campaigners by Kingstanding Circle
Words by John Lambert
Dear residents of Castle Vale, Erdington, Gravelly Hill, Kingstanding, Oscott, Perry Common, Pype Hayes, and Stockland Green.
Let’s cut to the chase. On 9 February, we were with Nigel Farage at a rammed NEC rally. Say what you like about rallies, but the momentum is undeniable. Big-name defections like Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman, polls showing Reform ahead nationwide, it’s game on for May’s local elections.
Reform are gearing up to fight every seat in Birmingham and deliver where Labour’s let you down.
You’ve spelt it out loud and clear to us. Potholes wrecking Slade Road, Chester Road, and Gravelly Lane. Fly-tipping blighting Witton Lakes, Stockland Green’s back streets and Castle Vale’s parks.
Bin collections have been in meltdown since that endless dispute kicked off in early 2025 and those overcrowded HMOs and exempt accommodation fuelling anti-social chaos in Oscott and Kingstanding.
Birmingham City Council crashed and burned in 2023 effectively bankrupt. Council tax? It’s UP over 17% in two years and now they’re asking for another 4.99% hike while spinning yarns about how they’re “not bankrupt” because the books balance. Erdington residents aren’t fools. If it’s all so balanced, then why are the basics still in tatters?
Reform’s plan is simple and straight. Slash the waste, patch those potholes pronto, hammer fly-tippers with zero-tolerance enforcement, sort the bins so they’re reliable again and crack down hard on dodgy landlords and unsafe HMOs.
We’ll demand proper community policing, protect our parks and enforce planning rules that put residents first so our streets feel safe, clean and cared for again.
WLCA Chief Officer Afzal Hussain standing outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King
Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association
For over three decades Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) has played an active role in helping residents access advice and support services when they experience difficult times. While this is central to our purpose, it’s only part of the picture – we also help unlock and nurture local talent.
It’s often the case that residents turn to us in moments of crisis – cost of living pressures remains a harsh reality for many families. WLCA colleagues step in with practical, hands-on help, guiding residents through a system that can feel overwhelming.
This support often (although, unfortunately not always) prevents individuals and families from reaching crisis point and is the safety net that keeps many households afloat.
But WLCA is also a springboard. Through training, employment support, and enterprise programmes, residents gain confidence, skills, and access to new opportunities. People who’ve been out of work for years find routes back into work. Others discover volunteering pathways, or community projects that help them grow.
Crucially, at Witton Lodge local people are not just receiving services – they are actively shaping and delivering them. Through our community forums, resident panels, and neighbourhood conversations, we utilise local insights, experience and expertise.
As a result, local decisions reflect lived experience, and our residents help design solutions that actually work on the ground.
There is growing acknowledgement that community powered organisations – rooted in trust, relationships, and local knowledge are essential to delivering long term change. At WLCA, we support this shift: putting community voice at the centre and giving residents real influence over the services that affect their lives.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) team outside Hope House, Perry Common / Photograph supplied by UDB
Words by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)
At Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) we know how important places of safety and play are for children and young people in our communities. We aim to provide places like this across Erdington, utilising brilliant shared spaces like Family Hubs and churches, and teams of faithful, friendly volunteers.
Play is often an underrated activity for young people and adults alike! Play involves fun and enjoyment, builds bridges between different people and helps to relax the body. Play fires up the brain, boosting resilience, creativity and well-being.
At our Youth Café, based at St Barnabas Church on Erdington High Street, our team of Youth Leaders listen to, care for and engage young people in play – and have a great time!
Through the ups and downs of life in secondary school, plus the dark, cold winter months, we are present and available for young people to come and play, leave the day behind for a short time and find rest for their mind, body and spirit.
“Thank you for giving us a safe and fun place to hang out…”
“Thank you all for being there for us when we needed a safe place to talk about our day…”
“I appreciate your effort in making Youth Club a place where I can unwind…”
Do you know a young person in need of a safe place to play, find rest and have fun?
For more information about Youth Café and other activities visit www.urbandevotion.org and get in touch – or scan the QR code above.
Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
ENNS meeting with local community groups at Perry Common Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA
Words by Witton Lodge Community Association
Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme (ENNS) is looking for young people (18-25) who would like to volunteer with the constituency wide organisation and join their official funding panel.
Launched in 2019, ENNS funds and supports community groups and charities across Erdington – helping them to deliver a wide range of activities and services, from Castle Vale to Kingstanding.
From walking groups and mental health support to arts and craft sessions and coffee mornings, the ENNS has so far invested over £750,000 into local projects for people across Erdington – overseen by Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA).
The ENNS is now looking for young adults to join their team of volunteers and sit on their funding panel, giving them valuable experience and a chance to get more involved in their community.
ENNS are particularly looking for people who are interested in supporting their local community by attending Funding Panel and Steering Group meetings every quarter. No previous experience is needed, just your willingness to get involved.
If you are aged 18-25 and ready to volunteer with the ENNS, or want to learn more about, then contact WLCA by emailing: [email protected]
What can the ENNS offer volunteers?
To make sure volunteers feel confident and supported in their role, ENNS will provide:
Full training and guidance on reading applications and making fair, informed decisions.
Reimbursement for any out of pocket expenses, including travel mileage and bus fares.
Invitations to community events, where you can connect with others and see the impact of your contribution,
Volunteer lunch in ENNS meetings, as a thank you for your time, energy, and commitment.
Why join the ENNS volunteer team?
Volunteering with ENNS means being part of a welcoming, inclusive community where your insights matter. You’ll help shape services that directly improve people’s lives, and you’ll meet great people along the way.
Overarching role and responsibilities of ENNS funding panel members
As a member of the ENNS funding panel your role is to support the investment of resources into and within the Erdington constituency, primarily for disabled adults and older adults.
Outside of Perry Common Hall / Photograph by Ed King
ENNS funding panel activities
Panel members meet four times a year (every three months) for up to three hours at Perry Common Community Hall. The funding panel will:
Receive and discuss reports on where investments have been made and where investments are needed (also referred to as mapping gaps)
Receive and discuss applications and where appropriate award micro and small grants up to £20,000
Support community organisations and groups in the delivery of services to disabled adults and older people (also referred to as community development and infrastructure need)
Who are the volunteers ENNS are looking for?
ENNS are particularly looking for people who are interested in supporting their local community. No previous experience is necessary as ENNS will:
Provide training and support in reading applications and making decisions about them.
Reimburse any out-of-pocket expenses (travel mileage, bus tickets)
Invite you to various community events and welcome you to our volunteer’s lunch.
Launched in 2019, the Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme (ENNS) is a portfolio of local community groups and activities – supporting over 50’s and adults living with disabilities.
To become and ENNS volunteer or lean more about the organisation email: ENNS [email protected]
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
WLCA Chief Officer Afzal Hussain standing outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King
Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association
Happy New Year, Erdington!
Now is a great time to set new goals and make those changes that you’ve been promising yourself. Many of us start the year thinking about new resolutions – whether that’s improving our health, learning new skills, finding a new job or getting more involved in the community.
Whatever your plans, now is the perfect moment to take action and Witton Lodge Community Association is here to support you.
If finding work or building your skills is on your list, then get in touch, we also have a project for our younger residents. WOW! is a fantastic programme that supports 18-21 year olds with training, guidance and opportunities to prepare them for the world of work. It’s a great way to open doors to new possibilities.
There are also exciting developments in local health services. The NHS is working towards introducing a Neighbourhood Health Service, designed to bring care closer to home and make it easier for people to access the support they need.
Your ideas and feedback are vital to shaping how this service works for our community so please get involved with ‘Community Voice’ and help create something that truly meets local needs.
Witton Lodge Community Association champions local community voices and we remain immensely grateful to our volunteers and local groups. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our communities, their time, energy and passion keep vital services running.
If you’re ready to take the plunge and become a volunteer, get in touch with us and we will work with you to make it happen.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
