Tag: Simon Wilson

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Community celebrations, support, and achievements this festive season with The Pioneer Group

Simon Wilson – The Pioneer Group Chief Executive / Photograph by Phil Greig, supplied by The Pioneer Group

Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support

As we approach the festive season, there’s plenty happening across Castle Vale.

We’re delighted to bring back our popular Take a Tag gift tree at The Sanctuary, giving residents the chance to make Christmas brighter for those in need. Look out for our advert in this paper which gives you all the information to get involved.

A big thank you to M&BG for donating a Christmas tree and to Nationwide Windows and Doors for providing the lights, we’ll be announcing the details on our social channels of our Christmas Tree Light Switch-On.

Beyond the festivities, we’ve been investing in our community.

This year saw the launch of the Topcliffe Skills Hub, a space for our Skills and Employment Team. Since opening, the hub has welcomed 142 Job Club attendances (including 46 Castle Vale residents), 39 course registrations (18 local), and hosted a popular AI information session with 16 attendees.

Participants range from 16 to 67 years, and courses such as English with Social Media, Parenting Skills, and Digital Skills for Beginners have been in high demand. We’re now consulting residents to shape future courses and working with partners like the BAN network to introduce vocational training and strengthen links with local employers.

We’ve also published our latest Customer Annual Report, which shows: £1.5m saved and reinvested into community regeneration, £867k secured to retrofit 77 homes, 84% customer satisfaction, above sector averages & £4.6m in social value generated.

I’d recommend having a look at how we’re performing on our website.

As always. thank you for your continued support, and I wish you an enjoyable festive period.

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk

The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Strengthening connections across Castle Vale

Chief Executive Officer of The Pioneer Group, Simon Wilson / Photograph by Phil Greig – supplied by The Pinoeer Group

Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support

At the heart of our work is our pledge to listen, engage, and improve how we connect and work together with our community. Across Castle Vale, we’re making real progress in strengthening our communications and ensuring customers feel informed and involved.

This summer, we’re excited to welcome everyone to our Community Festival on Saturday, 30 August. It’s a brilliant opportunity to come together, celebrate what makes Castle Vale special, and show the great work taking place across Castle Vale. Whether you’ve lived here for years or just moved in, we’d love to see you there.

We’re also hosting a Financial Wellbeing Drop-In on Thursday, 18 September at The Sanctuary, offering practical support and advice to help people manage their finances.

Alongside this, we’re continuing to deliver our Listening Hubs across the estate, these are spaces where you can meet the team, share your views, and hear about what’s happening locally. I’d really encourage you to come along, get your voice heard, and help shape the future of Castle Vale.

You can find these sessions in the latest printed edition of Erdington Local (page 9) or on our Social Media: ThePioneerGroup (Facebook), pioneergroup_ (Twitter/X)

On the housing front, I’m proud to share that through our Windows and Doors Programme, we’ve now completed installations in 1,480 homes, representing an investment of over £7.1 million. We remain on track to complete the programme this autumn, delivering warmer, safer homes for our customers.

Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected Castle Vale. Thank you for being part of it.

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk and for more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk

The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Safety on the Vale

Chief Executive Officer of The Pioneer Group and Compass Support, Simon Wilson / Photograph by Phil Greig – supplied by The Pioneer Group

Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support

Earlier in June, we were pleased to share the results of our latest Tenant Satisfaction Measures (TSMs), which show how you feel about the services we provide.

I’m proud to say that overall satisfaction has risen to 83.9%, a result that reflects the hard work of our teams and the valuable feedback you’ve shared to help us improve. While this is encouraging, we know there’s still more to do to be the best landlord we can be.

One area where we’ve seen a notable improvement is in satisfaction with how we handle anti-social behaviour (ASB). This remains a key priority for us, and we’ve taken steps to strengthen our response.

We’ve invested in a major upgrade of our CCTV system across Castle Vale, which plays a vital role in helping to tackle ASB and keep our neighbourhoods safe.

To date, 96% of the CCTV upgrade has been completed, and in 2024/25 alone, the system helped us capture 456 incidents. This has allowed us to work closely with our local neighbourhood policing team, who we’re proud to host in our building on the Vale.

This technology not only supports enforcement but also acts as a deterrent, helping partners respond more quickly and effectively when issues arise.

We’re continuing with this work and making sure everyone feels safe and supported in our community. Thanks to your feedback, we’re able to shape our services and deliver the best outcomes possible.

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk and for more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk

The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Castle Vale Community Festival returns on Saturday 30 August – bigger and better for 2025!

Colour Run at previous Castle Vale Community Festival – organised by The Pioneer Group / Photograph supplied by Castle Vale Local

Words by The Pioneer Group

(Ed’s note… this column was written the June/July Erdington Local newspaper and first published, in print, on Thursday 12 June.)

The Pioneer Group is thrilled to announce the return of the Castle Vale Community Festival, taking place on Saturday, 30 August 2025 at Farnborough Fields, next to Castle Vale Stadium, 12midday till 6pm.

Following the overwhelming success of last year’s event, which drew over 1,000 attendees, this year’s festival promises even more excitement and entertainment.

The 2025 programme will feature a children’s colour run which comes back by popular demand, alongside a full day of live performances, family-friendly activities, food, music, and more.

Stalls at previous Castle Vale Community Festival – organised by The Pioneer Group / Photograph supplied by Castle Vale Local

Jo Fieldhouse, Housing & Community Director at The Pioneer Group, shared: “The Castle Vale Community Festival is a celebration of the people who make this estate such a great place to live.

“It’s a chance for everyone on Castle Vale to come together and have fun. We’re thrilled to bring it back this year and can’t wait to see everyone there.”

The festival is a proud continuation of Castle Vale’s fantastic community spirit.

After the success of the 2024 Colour Run and Festival, the message from residents was clear – “Let’s do this every year!” and now, it’s official, Castle Vale Festival is back.

This is a community-led event, and everyone is invited to take part. Here’s how you can contribute:

  • Volunteer – Help plan, set up, run the day, or clear up afterward.
  • Sponsor – Support the festival and showcase your brand.
  • Donate – Every contribution helps us do more.
  • Run a Stall – Join our bustling marketplace.
  • Perform – Bands, dance crews, solo acts—we want to hear from you!

Stay tuned for updates, announcements, and the full schedule of events via The Pioneer Group’s social media channels.

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk and for more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk

The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Securing community spaces for the future

The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson / Photograph by Phil Greig

Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support

One of the defining qualities of the Castle Vale community is its resilience. We’ve seen it time and again, whether during the Covid pandemic, when so many rallied to support their neighbours, or when local assets like the swimming pool and library were under threat.

The local charity Spitfire and dedicated volunteers stepped up, refusing to let these valuable community resources disappear.

We’re proud to have played our part in securing key community assets too. We secured a long-term lease on Castle Vale Stadium and have made significant investments to improve the facilities, including the addition of two 3G pitches.

We’re delighted to share that the Stadium’s finances are looking more sustainable than ever this year, helping to secure the future of sport in Castle Vale.

The Sanctuary, a hub for residents, young people, community, and faith groups, is also benefiting from investment from us. We’re creating more user-friendly, bookable spaces, giving the reception area a fresh look, and upgrading facilities to make it an even more welcoming and functional community space.

Community centres like The Sanctuary are vital, but they often require ongoing support to thrive, something we’re committed to providing.

If you’re looking for a venue for your business or social events, visit our websites to see what’s happening at The Stadium and The Sanctuary.

Together, we can keep all of Castle Vale’s assets viable and fit for the future.

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk and for more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk

The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: We Are Pioneer – The launch of our new Corporate Plan

Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support

The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group

Castle Vale has always been at the heart of everything we do.

As we launch our new Corporate Plan (2025-2028), we’re setting out a clear vision for the future, one that strengthens our commitment to providing safe, high-quality homes, improving services, and investing in our community.

Over the next three years, we’ll focus on delivering better housing, putting customers first, and creating opportunities for people to thrive.

This means we are making sure our homes are well-maintained and energy-efficient, making it easier for customers to access the services they need, and continuing to support local projects that make a real difference.

Listening to our customers is at the heart of this plan. We want to make sure your voices shape the way we work, whether it’s through improving customer service, upgrading homes, or strengthening support for families and individuals across Castle Vale.

This is an exciting step forward, and we’re committed to making a real, lasting impact. To find out more about what’s ahead, visit our website or follow us on social media.

Together, we’re building a stronger Castle Vale. Together, We Are Pioneer.

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk and for more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk

The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Covid pandemic five year anniversary

Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support

The Pioneer Group CEO Simon Wilson / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group

It’s hard to believe that it has been five years since the Covid pandemic started and cast a dark shadow over so many lives.

As a housing association our world stopped and changed forever as the pandemic struck. As a business we had to adapt to working and providing services remotely for the first time and of course as events unfolded stepped up alongside the whole community on Castle Vale to help those in need.

We helped coordinate a Covid Taskforce alongside the likes of Spitfire Services, church groups, the schools and local organisations all of which coordinated a huge range of provision from medication and food deliveries to welfare calls.

Much of the effort relied on volunteers and goodwill. Many colleagues couldn’t work from home and carried on with vital services in the community.


In many ways it showed something about Castle Vale I have always known. When times are tough and the community faces a challenge it will respond, it will come together and it won’t be done to, it will stand up for itself.

It’s easy to forget with the passage of time just how scary those days where and sadly too many families they would lose loved ones – they will never forget and nor should we.

If you follow the news this can also be seen as quite a scary time with global political and economic uncertainty and closer to home we remain conscious of the real world impact of cost of living crisis and fragile state of many public services.

It feels timely and important to reflect on what we can achieve as a community alongside remembering those we lost.

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk and for more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk

The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Barclays Digital Van offering free digital support and advice to Castle Vale community

Words by The Pioneer Group

Barclays Digital Van offering support and advice to local residents / Pic supplied by Barclays UK

The Pioneer Group are excited to welcome the Barclays Digital Van to the Castle Vale community, bringing free digital support and advice to residents across the estate.

Especially these days, it is increasingly important for everyone to have access to digital tools, whether it’s for job searches, staying in touch with family, or learning new skills. That’s why The Pioneer Group are working with Barclays to bring this service right to the doorstep of people living on Castle Vale.

The Barclays Digital Van is coming to Castle Vale on Wednesday, 26 February, offering essential digital support and guidance.

Join the team at 2 Renfrew Square, Birmingham, B35 6JT, from 10am to 1pm – to access free internet, digital skills training, and expert advice on using technology to stay connected, find job opportunities, and access online services.

What’s on offer at the Barclays Digital Van:

  • Employment Support – Help with CV building, job applications, and interview preparation.
  • Healthcare Access – Guidance on using telehealth services to connect with doctors.
  • Social Inclusion – Support to help residents stay in touch with loved ones online.
  • Free Internet Access – High-speed WiFi to assist with job searches, education, and more.
  • Digital Skills Training – Learn computer basics and improve online safety.
    Tech Support – Get help with devices and troubleshooting issues.

The Pioneer Group are committed to making sure local residents have the tools they need to feel confident online.

Whether you’re just starting out or need extra support, many across the Castle Vale community can benefit from this fantastic service.

Renfrew Square is situated next to St Gerrard’s Church, on the corner of Yatesbury Avenue and Turnhouse Road – click here for direction from Google Maps.

For more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk and for more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk

Compass Support and The Pioneer Group are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Hearing from our tenants to help build a better community across Castle Vale

Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support

Simon Wilson, CEO of The Pioneer Group / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group

It feels like we’re constantly being asked for feedback – on everything from a takeaway to our last taxi ride. Surveys seem to be everywhere!

We also ask questions about the services we provide. But unlike a big business trying to make more sales, we’re a not-for-profit organisation. Every penny of rent we receive is reinvested into our services and tenants’ homes.

We want to know if we’re doing a good job. So, if you’ve had a repair done or new windows fitted, you might be asked to complete a short survey.

We know we don’t always get things right, and your feedback helps us improve. Of course, if you’d rather not take part, you can opt out – but we hope you won’t, because we really do listen and act on what you tell us.

Beyond service feedback, we’re also collecting Tenant Profile Information. That might sound a bit technical, but it’s simply about understanding our tenants’ needs better.

For example, if we don’t know you have a disability (and some disabilities aren’t visible), we might miss the opportunity to provide an even better service to meet your needs. We also ask about things like age and ethnicity to ensure we’re designing services that are fair and inclusive for everyone.

In the coming weeks, as a Pioneer resident, you’ll have the opportunity to share your thoughts with us. Your feedback will help us improve our services.

Plus, you could win one of two £50 Amazon gift vouchers! Complete the survey for a chance to enter the prize draw.

For more on The Pioneer Group visit www.pioneergroup.org.uk and for more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk

The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.

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NEWS: Community Group’s Meeting to help with networking, funding, and “additional support” on Monday 27 January

Words by Ed King

Compass Support are inviting community groups from across Castle Vale to a special meeting on Monday 27 January, to help them with an array of “additional support” from finding and applying for funding, to training and advice.

Held at The Sanctuary Community Centre on Tangmere Drive, the ‘Community Group’s Meeting’ will run from 6:30-8pm and is completely free to attend.

No advance booking is required to attend, with any interested parties invited to arrive at The Sanctuary for the 6:30pm start. Teas and coffees will be provided.

The meeting will also be a chance for local residents and volunteers to find out more about the wide range of community groups and activities on and around Castle Vale.

The Sanctuary Community Centre on Tangmere Drive, Castle Vale / Pic taken from Google Maps

Organisers hope that the ‘Community Group’s Meeting’ will be a chance for local groups to network and support each other, whilst encouraging anyone who wants to be more involved in local community activities to find out more about what’s happening in their area.

Compass Support Community Hubs Manager, Laura Grigg, said: “Community groups are the foundation for connected communities, they have an enhanced understanding of the needs and wants within communities.

“Compass Support [recognises] the valuable work of community groups but also appreciates that additional support may be needed to sustain, manage, and grow activities.”

She added: “The event on Monday 27 January will be an opportunity to network with other local groups, highlight challenges and explore opportunities for funding, publicity, and support. Join us for a cuppa and a chat.”

Representatives from Castle Vale Local will also be attending and hoping to find volunteers interested in community journalism, whilst also looking to connect with local groups and find out more about their activities and ambitions.

Compass Support’s ‘Community Group’s Meeting’ will be held at The Sanctuary Community Centre on Tangmere Drive, Castle Vale, on Monday 27 January – free to attend, running from 6:30-8pm.

For more on Compass Support visit www.compass-support.org.uk