Tag: volunteers

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NEWS: Erdington Neighbourhood Police to host Volunteer Day on Saturday 31 May

Entrance to Erdington Police Station on Sutton New Road / Photograph by Ed King

Words by Ed King

Erdington Neighbourhood Police Team are looking for volunteers to support their work around the Town Centre and wider constituency.

Hosting a special Volunteer Day outside Erdington Police Station on Saturday 31 May, the local force will be showcasing many of the initiatives and groups they run in area – hoping local residents and people across Erdington will join up and get involved.

Running from 10am to 12noon, the Erdington Neighbourhood Police Team Volunteer Day will be a chance to learn more about groups and initiatives including the Police led Street Watch, Neighbourhood Watch, Special Constables, and the Police Museum in Birmingham City Centre.

There will also be existing volunteers and representatives for the Erdington Police Community Speed Watch, who are targeting reckless drivers and speeding around residential streets – including dangerous hotspots such as near schools and nurseries.

Members of the Police Cadets will also be introducing younger potential volunteers to their group, which invites 13 to 17 year olds to get involved in softer police procedures.

Having relaunched in January 2025, the Police Cadets programme is looking for “passionate individuals” to support community outreach work and learn more about how each police department operates and supports the community.

Erdington PCSO leads the first Community Speed Watch with local volunteers on Spring Lane, Erdington / Photograph supplied by West Midlands Police

In a message on the police WMNow newsletter, posted ahead of the Volunteer Day, Erdington High Street PCSO Manider Tagger told: “Erdington Neighbourhood [Police] Team would like to invite you to our Volunteers Day which is taking place on the 31st May 2025 between 10:00am – 12:00pm outside of Erdington Police Station, Wilton Road, Erdington.

“This Volunteers Day we will have our Volunteers in Erdington all in one place advertising what it is they do, their experiences and how you can get involved.”

Sergeant John Reeves, who heads up the Erdington Neighbourhood Police Team, previously told Erdington Local: “By working together as a community and actively looking after our area, we can create a better and safer place to live.

“[The community’s] active participation and collaboration are essential to achieving our shared goal of creating a safer and more secure environment for everyone.”

Sgt Gary Grove, High Street Police Team, and Erdington Street Wardens on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

Erdington Town Centre has also recently seen the introduction of a dedicated High Street Police Team, headed by Sergeant Gary Grove to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the retail and community hub.

Writing regular updates on local policing in Erdington Local, Sgt Grove recent added: “We know these issues matter to the community, so we’ll be taking strong action to stop them.

“You’ll see us on patrol, listening to the community and acting on intelligence. We’re here to help and if you see us out and about, please do say hello.”

For more on the local police in the Erdington visit www.westmidlands.police.uk/area/your-area/west-midlands/birmingham/erdington

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NEWS: Free family summer fun days on Erdington High Street – Saturday 21 June, 19 July, 23 August

A group of children playing in a bouncy castle / Photograph taken from Adobe Stock Images

Words by Erdington Local editorial team

A series of free family summer fun days are being held on Erdington High Street, to help promote the Town Centre and give local families some free activities over the coming months.

Taking place on the third or fourth Saturday of each month, the first event will be held on Saturday 21 June – running from 12noon until 5pm, outside the entrance to Wilton Market.

(N.B. This event was originally planned for 31 May but has been moved due to uncertain weather conditions.)

The summer fun days will be completely free to attend and suitable for children and adults of all ages.

Children with animals face painting / Photograph taken from Adobe Stock Images

Organises have told there will be a variety of family friendly games and activities taking place across the afternoon – including a bouncy castle, animal facepainting, street sports, live music, and arts and crafts for young people.

Local community groups and support agencies will also have stalls at the events, informing local people about the activities and services in their area – as well as looking for new volunteers.

There will also be food and drink available, although these will cost depending on the individual stall holders.

Following the first event on Saturday 21 June, further summer fun days will be held on Saturday 19 July and Saturday 23 August.

Live music and familles on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

Weather permitting, all the events will take place on the pedestrianised area in between Wilton Market and the old Coop Supermarket – which will soon be reopened as a large B&M store.

A ‘wet weather plan’ will also be in place to move suitable activities to a sheltered location, if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

Completely free to attend, the events are being organised by the Erdington Business Improvement District (BID) as part of their ‘Love Your Local Community’ campaign – which hopes to encourage people to celebrate all the positive changes in Erdington Town Centre.

Young people and familles enjoying arts and crafts on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

The Erdington BID is also organising other ‘Love Your Local Community’ events to help support the Town Centre – including a special High Street Community Litter Pick on 7 June.

A spokesperson for the Erdington BID told: “These events are a thank you to all the local people who support the High Street, and an invitation to come and enjoy an afternoon in the Town Centre.

“We love Erdington High Street and want to celebrate all the positive things about our Town Centre.”

“With all the extra police attention Erdington High Street has recently had, and continues to have, crime and anti-social behaviour have dropped massively in the Town Centre.”

Young people and familles enjoying arts and crafts on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

They added: “Erdington has a big heart and a bright future, and whilst we recognise there have been challenges, we’re asking people to focus more on the positives rather than repeat the old negative narratives.

“Now is our chance to ‘Love Your Local Community’ and bring some fun back to the High Street.”

Erdington BID is also on the lookout for volunteers who want to help support the activities in and around the Town Centre, working alongside the Town Centre Manager, Street Wardens, and High Street Police team.

Stalls on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

For more information on the summer fun days look out for updates on the Erdington Local website, social media, and within the monthly newspaper.

To find out more about volunteering with Erdington BID, and supporting the activities in and around the Town Centre, please email: [email protected] – or click on the logo below.

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Northside Welcome Centre – a heartfelt hub for the Perry Common community

Outside of Northside Welcome Centre on Streetly Road / Photograph supplied by Northside Welcome Centre

Words by Hema Chumber

At 176 Streetly Road, in the heart of Perry Common, Northside Welcome Centre has been a lifeline for the local community since 2005.

Run by the charity Sikh Nari Manch UK, this volunteer-led hub offers a welcoming space for people of all ages and backgrounds, especially those experiencing loneliness, poor health, or isolation.

The Centre has grown to become more than just a building – it’s a place where connections are made, friendships are formed, and lives are transformed.

Offering a wide range of activities from coffee mornings and arts and crafts to Tai Chi, digital skills training, and mental health support workshops, the Centre is rooted in the needs of the local community.

This holistic approach aims to support the wellbeing of everyone who walks through its doors.

Arts and crafts sessions on Northside Welcome Centre / Photograph supplied by Northside Welcome Centre

Satpal Singh, Manager of Northside Welcome Centre, said: “We listen to the community and work to provide what’s needed, whether it’s through social activities or vital services.

“It’s about creating a place where everyone feels welcome and can thrive, no matter their background or circumstances.

“We’re looking forward to unveiling the improvements that will help us better serve the community, and we’re also very proud of our ongoing work and the positive impact it’s having.

“We’re not just about providing a service, we’re here to build relationships, offer support, and ensure people have the resources they need to improve their lives.”

Computer class at Northside Welcome Centre / Photograph supplied by Northside Welcome Centre

One of the Centre’s most exciting projects is the development of Erdington’s first Digital IT Hub.

This initiative will offer essential tech skills to those who need them most, helping bridge the digital divide and improve access to opportunities.

Alongside this, the Centre is undergoing a major revitalisation, which will improve accessibility, signage, lighting, and the overall environment to make it even more welcoming for all.

Northside Welcome Centre has long been recognised for its outstanding work, having earned the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and the Matrix accreditation for its high-quality advice and guidance services.

These accolades reflect the Centre’s commitment to excellence and its unwavering dedication to the community.

Excercose class at Northside Welcome Centre / Photograph supplied by Northside Welcome Centre

Service users and volunteers alike speak highly of the Centre’s impact on their lives.

One visitor shared: “Northside Welcome Centre is more than bricks and mortar – it’s a lifeline for many.

Another added: “I love coming here because I can connect with people, make friends, and feel a sense of belonging.”

Looking ahead, 2026 will mark Northside Welcome Centre’s 20 year anniversary of serving the community – a milestone the team is eager to celebrate with supporters and friends.

Workshop at Northside Welcome Centre / Photograph supplied by Northside Welcome Centre

The anniversary will be a chance to reflect on the progress made and look forward to the next chapter of growth and impact in Perry Common.

Whether you’re looking for a space to socialise, learn new skills, or receive support, the Centre continues to be a place where people can connect, grow, and thrive.

For more information on the Northside Welcome Centre visit www.northsidewelcomecentre.co.uk

Or you can email Satpal Singh at [email protected] or call his mobile on 07963 123 751.

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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NEWS: Erdington Litter Busters awarded £500 from McCarthy Stone to help “clean up Erdington for years to come”

Members of Erdington Litter Busters with representatives from McCarty Stone, and Cllr Robert Alden / Photograph supplied by McCann Birmingham

Words by Ed King

Erdington litter Busters have been awarded a £500 donation by property developers McCarthy Stone, to help the local community group “continue to grow, thrive, and be there to clean up Erdington for years to come” – according to McCarthy Stone Business Development Manager, Declan Fishwick.

The donation comes from the McCarthy Stone ‘Happier, Healthier Project’ – which hopes to help community groups in and around the areas of their residential developments, with small bursaries and financial support.

Erdington Litter Busters were selected by the property developer from amongst the constituency’s strong and varied portfolio of community and volunteer groups, following research into locally led activities and organisations.

Members of Erdington Litter Busters by the Village Green on Erdingotn High Street / Photograph supplied by McCann Birmingham

McCarty Stone had previously donated £500 to both the Erdington Foodbank, operating out of Six Ways Baptist Church, and Friends of Witton Lakes – as well as gifting £2000 to Birmingham Hospice, who run the cherished John Taylor Hospice on Grange Road in Erdington.

Ruth Dillon, Chair of Erdington Litter Busters, told Erdington Local: “It’s really quite humbling that we’re just a community group in Erdington and this big company has sought us out without any prompting form us and have given us a very kind donation.”

She added: “But what we’ve found [we’ve got] from today is not just the cheque, but we’ve made a new friend there. They’ve invited us to the project (Botham Place), there’s new ideas that we can work collaboratively on, and that is going to be really important – a lasting link with a new company coming into Erdington.”

(l-r) Ruth Dillon and Dawn Edwards – from Erdington Litter Busters, Cllr Robert Alden, Nicky Broda – from McCarthy Stone / Photograph suppliued by McCann Birmingham

Erdington Litter Busters were awarded the £500 donation by representatives from McCarty Stone at a special presentation on the Erdington Village Green, with members of the litter picking and green space advocates joined by Erdington Ward Councillor Robert Alden.

Celebrating the recognition of Erdington’s volunteer community, Cllr Alden told Erdington Local: “Erdington Litter Busters are a wonderful organisation who have been making a real difference across the local area – helping green up our green spaces. And what’s wonderful to see is that McCarthy and Stone have come into the area and are now committing to supporting local groups.”

He added: “And that’s really good from businesses coming into Erdington, not just investing in the fabric of the place but also investing in the community of the place – and that’s really important for helping to make Erdington an even better place to live.”

Sign for Erdington Litter Busters on Reservoir Road, Erdingto / Photograph by Ed King

McCarthy Stone is currently constructing a new retirement and residential apartment block on Orphanage Road, called Botham Place, which a spokesperson for the developer states will “offer a mix of one and two-bedroom energy-efficient retirement apartments, featuring private patios or Juliet balconies.”

Personally handing over the cheque to the Erdington Litter Busters on Erdington High Street, McCarty Stone’s Mr Fishwick, added: “We build our own communities, but we like to push into the community that already exists and make sure we’re all one part of Erdington.

“Part of doing that is we have a small sponsorship budget that we like to distribute to local initiatives in the area – and when we were doing some research, we saw the Erdington Litter Busters and we thought fantastic. It aligns massively with what we do as a business, and we wanted to give our support.”

Artist’s impression of new Botham Place development on Orphange Road, Erdington / Graphic taken form McCarthy Stone promotional material

For more on Erdington Litter Busters visit www.erdingtonlitterbusters.com

For more on McCarty Stone’s new retirement and residential development, Botham Place, visit www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/retirement-properties-for-sale/botham-place-erdington/news-articles/welcome-to-botham-place

 

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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: Erdington Walking Group – bringing the community together, one step at a time

Erdington Walking Group at Witton Lakes / Photograph supplied by EWG

Words by Hema Chumber

The Erdington Walking Group (EWG) has become a staple for local residents looking to get active, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with others.

Founded by Selina Gooden in June 2019, the group started with just six members and has steadily grown as more people have discovered the benefits of walking together.

Usually running from January to November, the group offers regular walks on Mondays and Thursdays.

The Monday evening walks are from 6:30pm to 7:30pm, while Thursday walks are bi-weekly at the same time. These times are chosen specifically to accommodate those who may work or are parents, ensuring that everyone has the chance to participate.

Erdington Walking Group at Witton Lake / Photograph supplied by EWG

The walks take place in local parks and green spaces, including Witton Lakes, Rookery Park, Perry Common Meadows, and Sorrell Park. These venues offer a variety of scenic routes, accessible to people with different fitness levels – and participants are encouraged to enjoy nature and the outdoors, as well taking part in healthy physical activity.

But the group isn’t just about walking.

Over the years, EWG has organised a range of social events that complement the outdoor activity, from trips to see live jazz at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall, to kayaking outings, art gallery visits, and even a Christmas meal for members.

Selina Gooden, founder of Erdington Walking Group, said: “I try to add at least one new experience each year for the group, to keep things interesting and varied, like a new social event or a new area to walk in.

“I’ve always enjoyed fitness since a young age, and I knew this because I was always playing sports.”

Erdington Walking Group taking part in the 10k Birmingham Wellness Walk charity fundraiser for Diabetes UK / Photograph supplied by EWG

The social aspect of the group has been key to its growth over the years, so far. Beyond the physical benefits, EWG provides a space for people to come together and form new friendships.

This inclusivity has meant people from all walks of life have been able to join in, whether they are looking to stay active or simply meet others in the community.

Selina added: “We also like to take part in things that are different to the usual walks, because this keeps everyone engaged and excited about coming along.

“Our walking group likes to connect with local services as well, so we can work together and help each other out.

“Looking after the Erdington community is key for us, and this will strengthen our relationships.”

Erdington Walking Group and partners outside Erdington Library / Photgraph supplied by EWG

EWG have also used their regular walking session to highlight local causes, such as supportring the campaigns to save Erdington and Perry Common libraries in the face of potential Council closure.

The group also hosted a special walk from Erdington Swimming Baths to the Erdington Court Bowls Club, to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the two local community hubs (check out our PICTURE GALLERY below).

Erdington Walking Group offers local residents a simple way to get active, enjoy nature, and build relationships – whilst also supporting the local causes and campaigns.

With its continued growth and its commitment to variety, the cherished group is set to remain a key part of Erdington’s local community for years to come.

Erdington Walking Group celebrate 100 year anniversaries of Erdington Swimming Baths and Erdington Court Bowls Club / Photographs supplied by EWG

For more information on Erdington Walking Group, or to get involved with the activities available, please email [email protected]

You Can also keep up to date with Erdington Walking Group through their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/erdingtonwalking

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 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 SPOTLIGHT: Arts All Over the Place – creativity without barriers

Words by Hema Chumber

A small but vibrant charity is helping people across Erdington and Birmingham discover their creative confidence – one poem, painting, or play at a time.

Arts All Over the Place (AAOtP) has been championing wellbeing through the arts for over 14 years, running regular creative workshops and sessions from a unit in the remaining Central Square shopping precinct on Erdington High Street.

From poetry and painting to crafts and drama, the creative activities AAOtP offer aim to uplift, empower, and connect people – particularly those living with disabilities – giving them a safe space to express themselves and try something new.

Central to the charity’s work is breaking down barriers and offering people the chance to build confidence in their creativity.

Masquerade mask making at The Sanctuary, Castle Vale / Pic supplied by Arts All Over the Place

Margaret Murray, Freelance Artist at Arts All Over the Place, said: “It’s really important for us to focus on individuals or groups who don’t get a lot of input from organisations, or haven’t had the chance to take part in certain things.

“We don’t want people or groups to feel marginalised.

“With this role you meet great pockets of people, it can be challenging at times, but more than anything, it’s rewarding. It’s about giving people a voice, to be visible and change things through visibility.”

Margaret comes from a teaching background in art and now uses her creative practice to engage with, and support, others in the community.

She added: “It’s important to encourage people who are low in confidence and self-esteem to realise their own potential and get involved with community projects.

“This can sometimes even be a stepping stone towards employment, and the social skills people gain let them feel more confident to take part in things within their communities.

“It’s a safe, sensitive, and understanding space with peer support.”

Decorated origami animals made during crafts workshops / Pic supplied by Arts All Over the Place

One of the group members recently used their experience with Arts All Over the Place to help in shaping their career, progressing to work as an arts coordinator in a care home – bringing music, writing, and creativity to this new setting.

Volunteers are also at the heart of everything AAOtP does, helping to run sessions and support participants. Their commitment recently shone through in a national charity initiative that caught the imagination of the group.

One talented knitter inspired them to take part in a project for Age UK, creating 500 miniature woolly hats to sit on top of Innocent smoothie bottles. For every bottle sold with a hat, a donation was made to Age UK – and the group is well on its way to going beyond that 500-hat target.

Whether it’s through art, drama, crafts, or community action, Arts All Over the Place continue to prove that creative expression has the power to bring people together, boost wellbeing, and open up new possibilities for everyone involved.

Making woolly hats to support Age UK charity / Pic supplied by Arts All Over the Place

Currently supporting a project to raise awareness over violence towards women and girls, AAOtP have been the central creative partner for the Mothers Without Hands programme – which will be holding a procession in Erdington Town Centre in June, led by internationally renowned artist Tereza Buskova.

Using their workshops to help build a special headdress that will be front and centre of the parade, which will begin at Oikos Cafe and walk down Erdington High Street towards St Barnabas Church, Arts All Over the Place participants are able to use their craetivity to support meaningful projects outside of their own sessions.

The group has also brought their energy and colour to communities across the Erdington constituency, with sessions held in Perry Common and on Castle Vale – alongside other venues across the city.

To find out more about Arts All Over The Place, their ongoing projects, or how to get involved, please visit their website at www.artsallovertheplace.org.uk

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 SPOTLIGHT: EcoGrow CIC – supporting community and wellbeing through nature

EcoGrow team at Court Lane Allotments / Image supplied by EcoGrow CIC

Words by Hema Chumber

In the spring of 2020, during the Covid-19 lockdown, a group of families with young children in Erdington came together with a shared goal: to address the growing challenges their community was facing, including food shortages and the lack of accessible green spaces for children to play and learn safely.

What began as a small grassroots effort evolved into EcoGrow CIC, a community-led environmental education group that focuses on sustainability, wellbeing, and environmental stewardship.

Based at Court Lane Allotments in Erdington, with activities now also operating from sites in Moseley and Sutton Coldfield, EcoGrow CIC has expanded to offer a range of programs designed to connect people with nature and promote community engagement.

The group provides adult gardening sessions, forest school programs for children, bush-craft workshops, and art and wellbeing activities.

Outdoor family cooking session at Court Lane Allotments / Pic supplied by EcoGrow CIC

In addition, EcoGrow offers environmental education in schools and community groups, as well as corporate team-building events that incorporate sustainability and hands-on learning.

Naomi Gregory, Environmental Educator at EcoGrow CIC, said: “I believe that by encouraging people to get outdoors and experience the wonders of the natural world, we can better understand our connection to it.

“Once we recognise this, we’re more likely to respect and protect the world around us.”

Celebrating Halloween with home grown pumpkin carving / Pic supplied by EcoGrow CIC

She added: “A normalising skill like gardening and growing our own food is gaining momentum, and it’s rewarding to be part of that in the community.”

One of the group’s standout services is its forest school program, which has become increasingly popular with local families.

Paula Sheldon, a parent whose children attend the sessions, added: “We’ve had the pleasure of being part of the EcoGrow community for nearly four years, and it’s been an absolute delight.

“As a family, we’re passionate about spending time outdoors and getting our hands dirty, and EcoGrow has provided us with the perfect platform to do just that.

“The forest school sessions have been a highlight for our children, who love exploring the outdoors and getting creative with art and nature.”

Children riding dressed up donkies as part of an special ‘unicirn and drago adventure’ / Pic supplied by EcoGrow CIC

She added: “The fire pit and mud play areas are always a hit, but what we appreciate most about EcoGrow is the sense of community they’ve fostered among families.

“It’s wonderful to see my children making new friends and learning valuable skills alongside us.”

One of EcoGrow’s new initiatives is the Salad Bags Project, which will run every Friday during term time from 12:30pm to 2:20pm.

People will help grow salad from seed and package it into bags for local distribution, promoting healthy eating and food security within the community.

EcoGrow will also host seasonal nature walks across various green spaces in Erdington, where people can learn about the environment, and connect with others who share an interest in nature.

Another new project is the fortnightly woodwork group, which will give community members the chance to develop practical woodworking skills, to create simple, yet useful items.

EcoGrow CIC team dressed up for the Spring Fair at Court Lane Allotments / Pic supplied by EcoGrow CIC

For more information about EcoGrow CIC’s services, or to get involved, please visit ecogrowcic.wixsite.com/ecogrow

To contact EcoGrow CIC email [email protected] or call 07421 329 836.

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 SPOTLIGHT: The Recovery Foundation – empowering good mental health through hope and community

Words by Hema Chumber

The Recovery Foundation exhibition of participant’s artwork at Secret Arts Studio Space, Erdington / Photography by Emma Bown

The Recovery Foundation, a mental health charity based in Erdington, has been supporting local residents for the past five years by offering a range of free services aimed at improving wellbeing and building resilience.

Over the last half decade, the charity has become a key resource for individuals facing mental health challenges, helping them find hope and strength during difficult times.

in 2025, The Recovery Foundation will mark its fifth anniversary, a significant milestone for an organisation that began with a clear mission to provide accessible and person-centred care.

Today, The Recovery Foundation supports over 100 people each week through its various services, all of which are designed to meet the needs of those experiencing mental health difficulties.

The Recovery Foundation founder, Emma Sitole (left) at exhibition of participant’s artwork at Secret Arts Studio Space, Erdington / Photography by Emma Bown

Emma Sithole, CEO of The Recovery Foundation, said: “We are celebrating our five year anniversary this year, and are in the midst of organising a celebratory event for this.

“It’s been an incredible journey and we are so glad to see the positive impact we’ve made on people’s lives in Erdington.”

The charity provides several key services designed to offer practical support, build confidence, and improve mental wellbeing.

One of the core services are the Hope Groups, which run over four weeks and help individuals explore what ‘’ means to them and how they can maintain it through challenging times.

Hope Group participant holding journal used as part of The Recovery Foundation sessions / Image supplied by The Recovery Foundation

The groups are facilitated by trained staff with lived experience of mental illness, ensuring that participants are supported by people who understand their struggles. Attendees can join the groups either in person or online.

One service user commented: “I left each session of the Hope Group feeling great and thinking more positively.”

Another service user, added: “The group gave me the space to feel heard and understood in a way I hadn’t experienced before. Coming together to talk and share our issues has really helped. I have already recommended this group.”

The Recovery Foundation also runs Rainbow Minds Matter, a similar programme tailored specifically to the LGBTQIA+ community.

It provides a safe and supportive space for individuals to discuss mental wellbeing, again facilitated by staff with lived experience.

Woodland Wellbeing session at Pype Hayes Park / Image supplied by The Recovery Foundation

The charity also offers the Creative Arts Programme, which offers participants the chance to engage with arts and crafts in a relaxed and informal setting – as well as Woodland Wellbeing, a six-week programme that combines nature and wellbeing.

Woodland Wellbeing is set in Pype Hayes Park, as activities such as natural crafts around the campfire take place for participants to build connections and friendships while enjoying the outdoors.

This has helped the charity to reach a diverse group of individuals, who may otherwise have struggled to find support.

The Recovery Foundation remains committed to expanding its reach and providing vital support to the local community.

With plans to continue growing its services and celebrating its achievements, the locally based charity looks forward to another five years supporting people in Erdington and neighbouring areas.

For more information on The Recovery Foundation, or to get involved with any of the free services mentioned, please visit www.therecoveryfoundation.org.uk or email [email protected]

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]