Tag: Urban Devotion Birmingham

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Supporting children and families with exciting activities at Lakeside Children’s Centre

UDB Cooking Club at Lakeside Children’s Centre / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Ash Porter, Volunteer Co-ordinator at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

In the heart of the Wyrley Birch Estate there is a wonderful children’s hub called Lakeside Children’s Centre and on Tuesday afternoon you’ll find the place overflowing with UDB’s team running sessions.

From 3:30pm-4:30pm there’s a brilliant children and families session. Here our team create a safe space for families and primary school children to play, eat our famous toasties, and create lasting friendships.

Our young people in secondary school have their own space from 5:00pm-6:00pm where they too are welcomed and have a space for themselves. These sessions are both free, and open access. We’d love to see you there.

We also run two developmental groups, Cooking Club and SPARK, aimed at young people we work closely with.

At Cooking Club they’ve learnt how bake plenty of sweet goods, but more recently have stepped into learning to prepare full meals. Last Christmas they were involved in cooking a Christmas dinner for over 50 people from the community.

SPARK is a music-based activity, where some of our young people are exploring their musical skills and even learning to write their own songs. One girl, when she first joined SPARK, was shy and could barely even sing out loud to the group. A few months later, she signed up to sing at her school summer showcase.

As young people learn tangible skills and are encouraged in their endeavours. We see them grow as people and in their self-esteem. On Tuesdays at Lakeside, we see transformation, one life at a time.

For more about UDB scan the QR code or visit www.urbandevotion.org

Follow UDB’s social media on Instagram or Facebook (@urbandevotion).

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS:  Supporting and celebrating young people at Urban Devotion Birmingham

Urban Devotion Birmingham team photo – summer 24 / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Emma Winmill, Co-Director at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) / Pic supplied by UDB

As we head into autumn, we’re celebrating all the children and young people stepping into the new term with courage – and those who cheer them on.

A new term can bring a jumble of emotions: excitement, nerves, fresh opportunities, and the challenge of getting back into routines. It’s normal to feel a mix of things all at once, and sometimes it takes a little time to settle in.

At Urban Devotion Birmingham, we want children and young people to know that whatever this season holds, there’s always space to slow down, connect, and be themselves.

Our free drop-ins continue across Erdington, with games, sports, crafts, PS5, and plenty of snacks. They are a chance to have fun, try new activities, and meet friends in a safe and welcoming space. Everyone is welcome, whether it’s your first time or you’ve been coming for years.

These sessions are a reminder that taking a moment to play, relax, and connect can make a real difference as the term gets underway.

We have a variety of activities in Erdington for young people, children, and families.

Scan the QR code or visit www.urbandevotion.org/activities to find your nearest session and keep up with last-minute updates on Instagram or Facebook (@urbandevotion).

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling twenty-twooo!

Staff and volunteers at Urban Devotion Birmingham / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Amy Hayes, Co-Director at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) / Photograph supplied by UDB

Okay, not me personally; I’m well past 22; but this September marks Urban Devotion Birmingham’s 22nd birthday, so I think that Taylor Swift song might just be our theme tune for the year.

Back in 2003, a group of mostly volunteers took to the streets in Erdington, connecting with young people who were out and about. That led to our very first youth drop-in, and over the years our activities have taken so many different forms.

Some of the parents, aunties, and uncles of the children we now welcome to our drop-ins were young people themselves back then; looking for a space to belong, deepening friendships, sometimes testing boundaries…

It’s such a privilege to have been able to offer safe spaces to multiple generations of children and young people over the past 22 years.

All these years later, we’re still here, and we don’t plan on going anywhere. We remain passionate about Erdington and committed to standing with, encouraging, and supporting children and young people as they grow and discover more of who they are.

We’re just as eager to come alongside parents and carers, cheering them on as they raise these wonderful humans. It’s no easy task!

As we step into our 23rd year, we’d love it to include supporting any children, young people or families you care about who haven’t yet connected with us.

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Free summer activities for families and young people with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Families and young people enjoying summer activities with Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Emma Winmill, Co-Director at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB

Looking for free, fun things to do in Erdington this summer? Urban Devotion Birmingham is here for you all year but in summer we have a range of activities for children, young people, and families to bring people together.

There’s plenty happening right on your doorstep. We have a variety of drop-ins to play games and sports, play PS5, get creative with crafts, enjoy some food, and connect with friends in a safe and welcoming space – all for free.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve never been before. Bring your friends or come on your own. You’ll always get a warm welcome.

As well as drop-ins we’re running The Leap: a group just for Year 6s who are about to start secondary school. It’s a chance to build confidence, make friends, and get ready for what’s next. You’ll need to sign up, so click on the QR code (above) or head to our website to do so.

We know that having somewhere safe to be, with people you trust, makes a difference – not just in summer, but all year round. So come and see what we’re about.

Scan the QR code (above) for more details – and keep an eye on Instagram and Facebook (@urbandevotion) for any last-minute updates or plans.

We look forward to seeing you!

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Thriving through play with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Young people enjoying group sports and play, as organised by Urban Devotion Birmingham / Photograph supplied by Urban Devotion Birmingham

Words by Amy Heyes

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

One of the lasting impacts of the Covid pandemic was a nationwide Play Deficit, as lockdowns limited opportunities for children and young people to play.

Play is vital for healthy development with wide-reaching benefits including emotional regulation, cognitive development, social skills and resilience.

To help address this locally, we partnered with Compass Support to launch Play Lists, a three-year project funded by The National Lottery which comes to an end next month. Designed to help young people in Erdington recover from the effects of the Play Deficit, it’s been a huge success.

Over the past three years we have registered young people engaging with play over 1,500 times, 250 new hobbies have been introduced and 60 young volunteers have been recruited and trained.

Scan QR code for more on the activites and services from Urban Devotion Birmingham

Play has enriched all that we do at Urban Devotion Birmingham, and that legacy will continue long after the grant ends.

Here’s what some of the young people involved have said:
“It’s one of the highlights of my week and has really boosted my mental health.”
“I feel like I’m becoming more creative.”
“[It] has made me realise how creative children can be and the part I get to play in helping that.”
“I like that I can learn something new here then go home and try it out myself.”

It’s clear; play helps young people thrive. We’re committed to continuing to make space for children and young people to play, explore, and grow in the years to come.

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Celebrating our young volunteers at Urban Devotion Birmingham

Young volunteers at Urban Devotion Birmingham / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Callum Hodson

At Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB), we are proud to celebrate two inspiring Year 9 girls from Erdington Academy who have recently achieved their Youth Volunteer Silver Award—recognising over 60 hours of dedicated community service and leadership.

Their journey with UDB began in Year 4, regularly attending our drop-in clubs and becoming familiar, friendly faces in our spaces. Over the years, we’ve seen them grow in confidence, character, creativity, and commitment.

They’ve taken part in residential trips, collaborative creative projects (including spray paint murals), and numerous skill-building activities—gaining various awards and certificates along the way.

Their volunteering has mainly taken place in the junior drop-in club they once attended as children. Now, they help lead creative play sessions, organise drama and storytelling, host craft activities, and serve food and drinks to the younger children—many of whom now look up to them as role models.

In addition to hands-on volunteering, they’ve completed specialist training in autism awareness, creative play, and safeguarding, all of which have supported their development as compassionate and capable leaders.

Within their friendship circles and local community, they are recognised as ambassadors of UDB, young people who give back with generosity and joy.

At UDB, we believe in walking with young people over time, providing space for them to belong, grow, and lead.

These two girls embody everything we stand for. Their passion, service, and personal growth are a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of consistent, community-rooted youth work.

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: St Barnabas Community Hub – a space to connect on Erdington High Street

People gathering at St Barnabas Community Hub / Photograph supplied by St Barnabas

Words by Hema Chumber

Since reopening in summer 2023, the St Barnabas Community Hub has established itself as a regular meeting point for residents on Erdington High Street.

Located inside the St Barnabas Church Centre, the Hub offers a weekly programme of free activities aimed at improving wellbeing, reducing isolation, and encouraging social connection across different age groups.

The space was previously run as a café, but the operation became unsustainable following the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response, the building was repurposed into a flexible community hub.

St Barnabas Churc, viewed from the churchyard on Erdington High Street / Photgraph by Ed KIng

Since its relaunch, the number of users and activities has steadily increased, as the Hub runs weekly sessions targeted at various demographics.

St Barnabas Community Hub’s goal is to provide an inclusive space where local people can access support, meet others, and take part in low-pressure group activities.

Natalie, Community Hub Manager at St Barnabas, said: “I think it’s so important for the people in the community to feel like, and know, that they have a safe and inclusive space here.

“We’ve gotten to know so many people and groups in the area over the past years, and lots of these actively volunteer with us – we’re looking at hosting an event in June to celebrate those who do, with it being Volunteer Week in that month.”

She added: “We also do a lot of signposting, as it’s important for us to help people in the local area get access to support if they need it.”

A service user, who asked not to be named, described St Barnabas Community Hub as a big part of their weekly routine.

They told: “I don’t know what I’d do without having the Hub here. It has really helped me.”

A 200 year anniversary celebratory cake with St Barnabas logo / Photograph supplied by St Barnabas

On Monday mornings, Barny Babies provides a term-time stay-and-play group for parents, carers, and pre-school children.

Tuesdays and Thursdays host Community Coffee Mornings, which are open to anyone who wants to drop in for a free drink and conversation.

Wednesdays begin with the Wellbeing Café for the Over 50s, a session focused on promoting healthy habits and peer support among older adults.

That afternoon, secondary school students can also attend the Urban Devotion Birmingham youth café, which offers a supervised space with free snacks and drinks, during school term time.

Thursday mornings are reserved for fitness-based activities.

Inspiring Fitness Women Only Circuit Training starts the day with a group workout, followed by Chatty Chairs, a seated exercise session for those with reduced mobility.

On Fridays, the Welcome Space offers a drop-in session with food, games, and opportunities for informal socialising.

The programmes at the Community Hub are reviewed regularly, and adapted to suit community feedback, allowing the Hub to remain responsive to local needs and offer relevant support.

For more information on St Barnabas Community Hub, please visit their website at www.stbarnabaserdington.org.uk and follow their Facebook page @StBarnabasErdington.

To get in contact with a member of the team, please email [email protected] – or call the Community Hub reception on (0121) 306 4820.

Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.

If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: [email protected]

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Celebrating and supporting friendship at Urban Devotion Birmingham

Words by Steph Porter / Pic supplied by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

Friends playng at youth group run by Urban Devotion Birmingham / Pics supplied by Urban Devotion Birmingham

Friendship is a vital part of life.

Having people to share experiences with and talk to creates a sense of belonging that can be deeply grounding. Not only does friendship support social wellbeing, it’s also linked to improved brain function, lower anxiety, and even longer life expectancy.

For many young people, friendship is everything – messages from friends that wake them up, football at break, deep conversations at lunch, time in the park, or evenings at their local youth club. It’s how they explore the world, build social skills, and develop a sense of self.

You rarely see young people alone, and that’s something to be celebrated. We want young people to experience the joy and growth that comes through connection.

Recent programmes like Adolescence on Netflix have highlighted just how formative these years are, and how vital it is for young people not only to experience healthy friendships, but also to have safe, trusted adults walking alongside them as they navigate the highs and lows of growing up.

Of course, friendship isn’t always easy. Peer pressure, feelings of exclusion, and the pressure to fit in can make it complicated.

That’s why, at UDB, we are passionate about creating spaces where friendship can truly thrive, whether that’s in our clubs or out in the community.

We’re also committed to being a listening ear when young people face worries or fallouts, and we’re privileged to walk alongside them as they figure out this essential part of life.

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Supporting young people across Erdington with our Mobile Youth Venue

Words by Ash Porter / Pic supplied by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

UDB Mobile Youth Venue in Perry Common / Pic supplied by Urban Devotion Birmingham

If you’ve ever seen a big blue van cruising through Erdington or parked near your home, you might have witnessed something special—UDB’s Mobile Youth Venue (MYV) in action!

At UDB, we believe in young people. We invest in them, support them, and create spaces where they can be themselves, connect with friends, and have fun.

Through our youth drop-ins and activities, we offer a welcoming environment where young people can relax, enjoy a snack, and feel at home. But we know that not everyone finds it easy to step into a youth club—so we bring the youth club to them!

Our MYV is more than just a van — it’s a moving safe space. Step inside, and you’ll find comfy seating, heating, game consoles, and even a small kitchen.

Whether parked by some local houses, outside school, a community hub, or a park, it allows us to reach young people where they are, making sure no one is left out.

Maybe you’ve seen us parked up near a shop, by a park, or at an event — if you ever do, come say hello! We’d love to meet you and show you around!

So, next time you see the big blue van, give us a wave or stop by — because every young person deserves a place to belong.

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Urban Devotion Birmingham – empowering local youth and communities

Words by Hema Chumber

Urban Devotion Birmingham team photo outside Hope House / Image supplied by UDB

Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) is a Christian charity working in North East Birmingham, with a mission to empower young people and their families. Founded in 2003, and officially registered as a charity in 2005, UDB supports over 2,500 individuals each year.

The charity aims to help those it engages with to become confident, well-rounded individuals, while building strong and supportive relationships within the community.

It runs various programs, such as drop-in clubs, mentoring, therapeutic support, detached youth work, and educational services in schools. UBD also runs faith-based groups for those who want to explore spirituality, aiming to help young people become confident and well-rounded individuals.

Urban Devotion Birmingham in session at St Barnabas Church, Erdington / Image supplied by UDB

Urban Devotion Birmingham is based at Hope House, 148 Witton Lodge Road in Perry Common – but its services span across several areas of the community, including Pype Hayes, Stockland Green, and neighbouring areas.

One of UDB’s key vehicles for outreach is its Mobile Youth Venue – a converted van that travels to different locations in the community during the week. This mobile service makes youth programs more accessible to young people by meeting them where they live and spend their time.

Amy Heyes, Co-Founder of UBD, said: “Our work is about removing the obstacles that hold people back. The children and young people of Erdington are brilliant, and we love getting the opportunity to support them as they grow.”

Urban Devotion Bimringham in kayacking session / Image supplied by UDB

Amy added: “At UDB, we believe that everyone has something to contribute, and we want to encourage people to play their part – our work wouldn’t be possible without our dedicated team of staff and volunteers, who are all central in helping to provide the services we do, to the local community.

“We welcome any one who’s interested in getting involved to stop by Hope House and say hello, our friendly team are always up for a chat.”

A parent, whose child attends many sessions at the charity, also told: “I don’t know what my boys would have done without UDB – they wouldn’t have had the experiences they have had here, without them.

“It’s a fun and inclusive environment for children and young people, especially to meet new people and make friends. It’s like a family here, and my boys love being a part of the UDB family.”

Urban Devotion Birmingham team next to Mobile Youth Venue / Image supplied by UDB

UDB’s focus is not just to provide services to the community. With a strong emphasis on empowerment from a young age and creating opportunities, the charity also works to ensure young people are playing an active role in shaping their futures.

Volunteers play an essential role in the charity’s work, from mentoring young people to helping run events and practical activities like transport or gardening.

Those who wish to support Urban Devotion Birmingham can also donate goods and help in spreading the word about their work.

For further information on Urban Devotion Birmingham and a calendar of its upcoming events and programmes, please visit www.urbandevotion.org or call 0121 350 9370.

Click here to follow UDB on Facebook, X, and Instagram

Watch out for more COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT features from Erdington Local, online and in our monthly newspaper.

If you are from a community group or an active volunteer anywhere in the Erdington constituency then we want to hear for you. Please email our Community Reporter Hema Chumber at: [email protected]