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.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
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.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
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.
Compass Support and The Pioneer Group are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
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.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Words supplied by The Pioneer Group / Compass Support
Young girls playing football as a team / Pic from Adobe Stock Images
Compass Support, part of The Pioneer Group, is launching an exciting new initiative to introduce girls to football in the local community.
A special taster session will take place on Wednesday, 19 February, during half-term, offering young girls the chance to experience the sport through fun activities, teamwork, and skill-based games.
These sessions aim to encourage girls aged 8-11 to get involved in football, make new friends, and build confidence in a supportive and engaging environment. The taster session will serve as a launchpad for upcoming FA Wildcats sessions, which will continue in the coming months to help grow grassroots girls’ football in the area.
The Sanctuary community centre on Tangemere Drive, Castle Vale / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group
These sessions will initially be held at The Sanctuary, with plans to move to Castle Vale Stadium, part of The Pioneer Group, as the programme expands into the summer months.
This programme has been made possible thanks to funding from Birmingham FA, after the team successfully completed FA training to become an official provider. This funding will help lay the foundation for long-term opportunities for girls to get involved in football and develop their skills.
Local residents attending football match at Castle Vale Stadium / Pic by Ed King
Jo Fieldhouse, Director of Housing and Community, said: “This wonderful opportunity is made possible by the great community assets we continue to invest in across Castle Vale, The Sanctuary community centre and Castle Vale Stadium.
“I am delighted to see this initiative progressing, the team have been holding some informal coaching sessions for some time, attracting funding will strengthen our capacity to continue supporting girls football”
A spokesperson from Birmingham FA added: “We at Birmingham FA are pleased to support and encourage football. Our purpose is to help the game develop, to boost participation and engage the community. By giving players access to fundamental equipment like footballs makes this possible.”
The ultimate goal is to bring girls’ football to Castle Vale by providing a clear pathway for young players to progress in the sport while fostering a love for the game in a fun and inclusive setting.
For more information or to register interest, please contact Compass Support at [email protected] or on (0121) 748 8111.
Compass Support and The Pioneer Group are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
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.
The Pioneer Group staff Katie and Serina at charity bake sale (750px) / PIc supplied by The Pioneer Group
The Pioneer Group is proud to announce a successful year of fundraising efforts, culminating in a donation of £2,152 to Tommy’s – the UK’s leading charity dedicated to supporting people around pregnancy and childbirth.
Named after St Thomas’ Hospital in London, where the UK’s first ever pregnancy research centre was established from 1997-2021, Tommy’s is dedicated to supporting those dealing with the heartbreak and devastation after losing a baby – and to make pregnancy and birth as safe as possible.
Tommy’s work tirelessly across the whole pregnancy journey to drive change at every level – translating its research breakthroughs into new tests and treatments in clinical care, changing national maternity policy and providing expert information and support for anyone who needs it.
The contribution from The Pioneer Group could fund a month of research by a Tommy’s scientist, helping to prevent second trimester losses and reduce the heartbreak of baby loss.
Staff, stakeholders, and residents of The Pioneer Group came together throughout the year to support this important cause, participating in a variety of creative fundraising activities.
Notable fundraising highlights include:
David Bucknall running 60 miles over the month of June
Sarah Melaney walking 100 miles during May
Kathryn Priest completing 100 skips every day in October
A series of community events, including a bake sale, a bake-off by the Executive Leadership Team, a World Cup football sweepstake, Christmas raffle donations, and a sponsored football game
The Pioneer Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Wilson / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group
Simon Wilson, Chief Executive of The Pioneer Group, expressed his pride in the efforts: “This great achievement reflects the passion and commitment of everyone involved, from our staff to our residents.
He added:” Supporting Tommy’s vital work to prevent baby loss aligns with our core values of delivering safe and supportive communities. We’re grateful for the opportunity to make a difference.”
Sarah House, Head of Corporate Partnerships at Tommy’s, also told: “We feel incredibly grateful to work with amazing organisations such as The Pioneer Group whose support is crucial in helping us to continue our mission to stop the heartbreak and devastation of baby loss and make pregnancy and birth safe – for everyone.”
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
The Pioneer Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Wilson / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group
A very Happy New Year from The Pioneer Group!
Reflecting on 2024, I am incredibly proud of all we accomplished as an organisation. Together, we reached significant milestones that highlight our unwavering commitment to supporting the Castle Vale community.
Two standout moments in December captured the spirit of our community. The first was the Christmas Tree lights switch-on, a great celebration that brought Castle Vale residents together to share in the festive spirit.
This event would not have been possible without the generosity of our partners, Nationwide Windows and Doors, who donated the tree and lights. Despite challenging weather conditions, residents came together for a festive celebration. Our thanks also go to Cllr Goodwin and the team at Birmingham City Council for their support.
Beyond the event, our partnership with Nationwide has delivered incredible results: 553 homes upgraded, 1,210 properties surveyed, and over £3 million invested in improvements – with more to come.
The second highlight was our Christmas Hamper and Gift Drop. Through the Christmas Tree Tag programme, we identified over 100 children in need, and the community generously donated more than 60 gifts through our Joy to the Vale campaign.
Thanks to our dedicated staff, who worked tirelessly to gather, wrap, and deliver these presents, we brought joy to countless households during the festive season.
As we move into 2025, our commitment to being an anchor within the community remains high on our agenda. We’re excited to launch our new Corporate Plan in April, which will guide our service delivery for the next three years.
By working together with staff, residents, and stakeholders, we look forward to building on our successes and making an even greater impact.
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Words by Simon Wilson, Chief Executive Officer – The Pioneer Group & Compass Support
Simon Wilson, CEO – The Pioneer Group / Pic supplied by The Pioneer Group
(Ed’s note – this column was written for the Erdington Local printed edition and first published on 20.12.24)
As we enter the festive season, we reflect on the strength of our community and the importance of supporting one another. We know that while this time of year can bring festive cheer, it can also present challenges for families in Castle Vale. That’s why we remain committed to easing the burden across the Vale.
Our teams are at the heart of what we do, providing support to residents, including delivering hampers to those in need over this festive period, with the aim of bringing joy to the Vale.
I’d also like to reflect on this year’s Christmas Tree Lights Switch-On, which was a great success, bringing residents together in a moment of celebration, reflecting the spirit of Castle Vale.
It’s a tradition that will continue for years to come, and we’re grateful to everyone involved in making this event happen.
As an anchor within the community, we’re continuing our commitment to make Castle Vale a place where everyone can thrive. We’re thankful to our residents, partners, and staff and together, we can make this festive season brighter for all.
We look forward to continuing our work in the new year.
Have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year!
The Pioneer Group and Compass Support are key partners in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme – supporting independent local and community journalism.
Ladders of Opportunity second round recipients at BMet Erdington Skills Centre, Edwards Rd / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
The Ladders of Opportunity Bursary, established in memory of Erdington MP Jack Dromey and Councillor Penny Holbrook, has achieved remarkable success in its second round of funding.
The initiative, aimed at supporting young residents living in the Erdington Constituency, saw applications triple from the first round, demonstrating its growing impact and importance in the community.
For both rounds, a total of £20,000 was awarded to 23 young individuals across the Erdington Constituency, each receiving up to £1,000 to support their career aspirations. The bursary recipients represent a diverse range of career paths, including aspiring pharmacists, dentists, teachers, nurses, youth workers, solicitors, midwives, and mechanical engineers.
In addition to financial assistance, the bursary programme offers vital mentorship and coaching opportunities. These connections with experienced professionals provide invaluable guidance for the recipients’ personal and professional development and can provide excellent insight into future careers.
The bursary is a collaborative effort, generously funded by dedicated partners including Witton Lodge Community Association, IM Properties, BMet College, The Pioneer Group, and Urban Devotion. This partnership exemplifies commitment to nurturing local talent, working together to create a brighter future for young people across Erdington.
Ladders of Opportunity sign identifying project partners / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
A special event, hosted at BMet Erdington Skills Centre brought together the successful applicants and guests, alongside the panel and community leaders, including Perry Common Councillor Jilly Bermingham. The gathering provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of these inspiring young individuals and hear about their plans for the future.
Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association, expressed his enthusiasm for the inaugural Ladders of Opportunity bursary programme, which has distributed £20,000 to promising young individuals across the Erdington Constituency.
He told: “Congratulations to all the recipients whose determination to achieving their goals have earned them this well-deserved recognition and support. The standard of applications has been exceptional and it’s an absolute pleasure to see these aspiring young people embrace this opportunity.”
(l-r) Linda Hines MBE from Witton Lodge Community Association and Ladders of Opportunity second round recipient Anisha Begum Mukhta / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
Recognising the success of the programme and the pressing needs within the community, Afzal, emphasised the importance of expanding this initiative. He added: “Our aim is to increase the funding for 2025 by bringing on board new partners who share our passion and vision for supporting young people and education.
“We are hopeful this proactive approach will ensure that more young individuals realise their potential and contribute positively to their community, reinforcing the idea that investing in youth is an investment in the future of Erdington, and the city as a whole.”
(l-r) Kerry Amory from IM Properties and Ladders of Opportunity second round recipient Ellie Turner / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
By seeking new partnerships, the programme aims to secure additional resources that will enable even more young people in Erdington to benefit from financial support and mentorship opportunities.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
