Tag: volunteers

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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]

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group – empowering local men to take control of their health

Words by Hema Chumber

Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group meeting at High Croft Community Centre / Pic supplied by Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group

The Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group, is a group for men looking to improve their health and wellbeing, who meet monthly at Highcroft Community Centre – located at 485 Slade Road, opposite Stockland Green Methodist Church and Stockland Green School.

Focused on providing a supportive and inclusive environment, the group aims to tackle the stigma surrounding men’s health, particularly mental health, and encourages men to actively take charge of their physical and emotional wellbeing.

Founded as a Community Interest Company (CIC), the group offers a range of activities from fitness classes to workshops and educational events, all designed to provide men with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to live healthier lives.

The group is committed to ensuring that men feel empowered to talk openly about their health and to foster a sense of community among participants.
Derrick Gidden, Chairman, said: “We want to create a space where men can feel comfortable talking about their health, without the stigma that often surrounds it.

“By sharing experiences and learning together, we can all improve our health.”
The group’s regular meetings at the Highcroft Community Centre have become a central point for local men seeking both social connection and valuable health resources.

Meetings feature expert speakers, covering topics such as stress management, physical fitness, and mental resilience.

These sessions encourage men to take small, manageable steps towards improving their wellbeing, making healthy living more accessible to all.

The Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group also organises physical activities to encourage men to stay active – including walking groups, football sessions, and fitness classes.

Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group meeting at High Croft Community Centre / Pic supplied by Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group

One of the group’s key initiatives was the Prostate Cancer Awareness Evening, which took place on 22 November 2024, at the Lighthouse Young People’s Centre in Birmingham.

This event brought together local men and women to learn more about prostate cancer, a health issue affecting thousands of men across the UK.

The evening featured expert presentations from Aidan Atkins from Tackle Prostate UK, Lindsay Thompson from Infopool, and Junior Hermans from Prostate Cancer UK’s Black Men’s Health Advisory Group.

After the event, Junior Hermans explained: “Prostate cancer isn’t just a men’s issue; it affects families and communities.

“By coming together to share knowledge and experiences at events like these, we can empower everyone to take proactive steps in their health journey.”

Sign outside High Croft Community Centre, Slade Road / Pic supplied by Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group

This event is just one example of the Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about men’s health issues and to create spaces where men can engage in conversations about topics that are often overlooked.

Its proactive approach has led to growing participation and a strong sense of community among its members.

The group is eager to welcome new participants, including local men looking for support, fitness opportunities, or simply a place to connect with others, with its diverse range of activities and resources.

For more information about the Men’s Health and Wellbeing Group, please visit their website at www.menshealth-wellbeing.co.uk

Or contact their team directly at [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]

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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]

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club – providing opportunities for cycling and socialising

Words by Hema Chumber

Members of Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club on group cycle ride / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC

Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club (CCC) is a local non-profit organisation that runs cycling activities and group sessions for people of all ages and abilities.

Affiliated with the national sports charity Cycling UK, Pype Hayes CCC has been providing cycling opportunities to people of all ages and abilities since August 2022. Previously called the Cobble Café/Easy Riders, the club works on a volunteer basis with members donating their time to support its activities.

With its primary Bike Hub based at Paget Primary School on Paget Road, the club now has a total of 116 members, with 50 actively participating in its ‘Learn to Pedal’ sessions which take place every Sunday at 10am.

Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club Bike Hub at Paget Primary School / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC

The ‘Learn to Pedal’ programme is open to people of all age ranges, with the youngest participant being three years old and the oldest being 93. The sessions are designed to help individuals build confidence and develop basic cycling skills, with the option to progress to a Bikeability certification – in line with the government’s national cycle training programme.

Pype Hayes CCC welcomes people with varying levels of experience and the pace of learning is adapted to each person’s needs – also running ‘Led Rides’, providing opportunities for people to cycle together in a social, group environment.

The club has a second Bike Hub at the Witton Lodge Community Association Eco Hub on Witton Lakes, where additional ‘Led Rides’ take place weekly. These group rides usually include stops at local cafes, to give members a chance to socialise and to support Erdington’s local community spaces.

‘Mr Fix It’ providing bike repairs and maintanence / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC

Outside of the group activities, Pype Hayes CCC lends bikes to people who do not own a bicycle but want to embrace a healthier and greener way of transport – allocating spare cycles from both Bike Hubs at Paget Primary School and Witton Lakes Eco Hub.

It also offers a servicing initiative called ‘Mr Fix It’, where local residents can access bike repairs and maintenance to ensure their bike is safe to use – encouraging more two wheel travel and allowing more people to participate in the club’s activities.

With support received through a grant from the National Lottery, Pype Hayes CCC has been able to expand its bike stock and improve essential equipment.

The funding has been significant in enabling the club to offer its wider range of services to the Pype Hayes community and neighbouring areas.

Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club at Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Image supplied by Pype Hayes CCC

Gareth Jones, National Standard Cycling Instructor at Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club, said: “Cycling is one of many great ways to get active and enjoy the outdoors, but it is also about supporting one another in the group and the wider community.

“It is very rewarding to see people overcome their fears by taking part and achieve something they did not think was possible at all. We are able to support anyone who wants to join in, learn, or ride socially with other people.”

He added: “We believe our club is unique, because people do not need to know how to pedal straight away – we encourage all of our members to take things slowly in the beginning and then learn at their own pace.

“We welcome people from many different backgrounds and with different abilities. All of the Bikeability instructors here are registered and are SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) trained too.”

For more on Pype Hayes Community Cycling Club through the Cycling UK charity visit www.cyclinguk.org/group/pype-hayes-ccc-formerly-cobble-cafeeasy-riders

To get involved with Pype Hayes CCC directly, click here to follow the club on Facebook or join the group on WhatsApp via 07950 876 406.

For ‘Learn to Pedal’ inquiries, email [email protected] – and for all general inquiries 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]

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Community Environmental Trust – empowering residents and enhancing green spaces

Words by Hema Chumber

Local families working at the Community Garden / Image supplied by CET

The Community Environmental Trust (CET) was set up in the early 1990s as part of the wider Castle Vale regeneration project, which aimed to improve housing and create job opportunities for local people.

CET’s role was to focus on environmental issues and make sure they were addressed alongside other developments.

Today, CET remains active in Castle Vale, running a range of environmental programmes that get local residents involved in looking after green spaces and making the area more sustainable.

The Trust provides volunteering opportunities, education, and outdoor activities, helping people get more connected to their community.

Tending to vegetable planters at the Community Garden / Image supplied by CET

One of CET’s key projects is the Community Garden at the Castle Vale Allotments. The garden offers local residents a chance to learn about gardening and food-growing, while providing space for people to grow their own food and meet others.

CET also manages the Community Orchard in partnership with Castle Vale Allotments, Fruit and Nut Village, and Slow Food. The orchard has 29 fruit trees, including apples, pears, and plums, providing fresh produce for the community.

Alongside the gardening programmes, the charity hosts water sports sessions at a nearby canal, offering kayaking and bell-boating. Special sessions will be held over the February half term (18 – 21 February), with free kayaking at 12pm and bell-boating at 10am each day. These activities are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages.

Young people taking part in bell boat lesson / Photography credit to Tracy Fisher

Stuart Connolly, Paddle Sport Instructor at CET, said: “We think it’s really important to encourage people in the community, of all ages, to spend some time outside, away from screens, and really connect with the nature around them.”

He adds: “The water sport activities we run here offer that helping hand to people, by getting them out in the fresh air, and connecting with their neighbours and friends in the area – it’s also good to to meet new people, and build new friendships.”

A service user, who participates in CET’s water sports sessions, further told: “Due to lower body issues, I thought I could never get in and out of a boat. But now I’m absolutely enchanted, along with physical support from the staff at CET.”

Young people taking part in bell boat lesson / Photography credit to Tracy Fisher

They add: “The bell-boats cannot tip over or sink, and you really can’t fall out unless you’re doing something completely unadvisable, so it’s absolutely safe for everybody. On the boat, we just paddle and have a laugh.

“We also do litter picking. These are very community-minded activities, and I can’t recommend them enough. It’s good for the body, the soul, the spirit, and the environment.”

Through its work, CET continues to have an impact on both the local environment and the community. By offering opportunities for volunteering, outdoor activities, and environmental care, CET plays a role in building a stronger, more connected community in Castle Vale.

For those interested in getting involved, further information can be found at www.environmentaltrust.org.uk or on CET’s Facebook page @CETBrum

For more on the CET water sports activities contact Stuart Connolly at [email protected]

For all other CET enquiries contact Alicia Grande at [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]

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Erdington Arts Forum – celebrating creativity in Erdington and beyond

Words by Hema Chumber

Musicians perform at Evening of Creativity / Pic supplied by Erdington Arts Forum

Erdington Arts Forum (EAF) has been part of Birmingham’s cultural landscape since 2011, providing a platform to support and showcase local Erdington artists – as well as bringing international artists to perform and work across the North Birmingham constituency.

Established as part of the city’s commitment to local arts, alongside nine other arts forums stretching from Sutton Coldfield to Northfield, the Erdington Arts Forum engages with the local creative community both through the opportunities it provides for people to participate in the arts and the regular programme of events it hosts.

Poet performs at Evening of Creativity / Pic supplied by Erdington Arts Forum

One of the EAF’s most recognised and longstanding activities are the Evening of Creativity showcases – a monthly smorgasbord of arts, music, poetry, and community activism, held on the third Friday of every month at Oikos Café on Erdington High Street.

Supported by hundreds of regular attendees, and thousands more watching the EAF’s live stream across the world, the Evening of Creativity events have been running consecutively for nearly eight years – having never missed a month since launching back in June 2017.

The Evening of Creativity even moved to a secure location in Erdington and conducted socially distanced live stream events, maintaining its  monthly schedule throughout the pandemic.

(l-r) Jobe Baker Sullivan and Paul Withers live streaming an Evening of Creativity event during Covid-19 lockdown / Pic by Ed King

Earning a solid reputation as a platform for creative expression in Birmingham, the Evening of Creativity events have featured many notable local acts over the years, including four Birmingham Poet Laureates and the CBSO players, as well as an array of touring and international artists.

While it primarily focuses on the local creative community, the EAF’s network extends far beyond Erdington and Birmingham – fostering links with creatives and performers from across the globe.

In recent years, the EAF has welcomed many international acts into Erdington, including Sicilian pop singer Manuel Cangemi, Portuguese violinist ‘The Tiny Violinist’, Parisian guitarist Gael Guelda, and Indonesian musician Aji Sang Ali.

These international collaborations reflect the group’s dedication to bringing a range of cultural perspectives to Birmingham.

Local artists display and sell work at Evening of Creativity / Pic supplied by Erdington Arts Forum

The EAF is also committed to ensuring any events they promote remain accessible, offering quality performances for people who may not be able to afford arts events elsewhere in the city. Pay as you feel tariffs or donations are also offered as a way to both support the events financially and keep it accessible to a wider audience.

Erdington Arts Forum has also been supporting local filmmakers in Erdington, as across the wider city the nascent broadcast content industry is seeing more investment that ever before – following the achievements and ambitions of content creators such as Steven Knight.

The EAF recently joined with St Barnabas Church in Erdington to finance a short film from local poet and spoken word artist Joe Cook, celebrating the cultural legacy of the North Birmingham suburb.

Joe Cook performing Odeington for film by Chris Neophytou – Pic by Grant Archer

Odeington was written and recorded by Cook, who was born and raised in Stockland Green, with the accompanying film shot by Erdington filmmaker Chris Neophytou. It was filmed in and aroudn Erdington and released in October 2024, in line with the St Barnabas bicentennial.

Looking ahead to 2025, Erdington Arts Forum has a busy schedule with several events lined up, including the return of its annual ‘Triangle Night’ at the February Evening of Creativity.

Held annually, the night will be headlined by local Brazilian music ensemble Forró Tempo, and each artist appearing at will incorporate the triangle into their performance.

Along with the accordion and zabumba (a bass drum), the triangle makes up an essential part of the traditional Brazilian music Forró – which dominates the cultural landscape on Northeastern Brazil and beyond.

Jobe Sullivan, Coordinator of Erdington Arts Forum, told Erdington Local: “All of us here at Erdington Arts Forum are very proud to host events like these and bring together local residents from the area and wider neighbourhoods.”

He added: “We have many bookings in the diary for the year, which we are particularly excited about, such as Forró dance classes, live music, poetry and other arts from across Birmingham City. Erdington will continue to be our focus, and our Arts Forum will continue to be our point of pride.”

Odeington – by Joe Cook / Commissioned by Erdington Arts Forum and St Barnabas Church

Erdington Arts Forum present ‘Triangle Night at the next Evening of Creativity on 21 February – held at Oikos Café, Erdington High Street. For more information and online ticket sales visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/triangle-night-evening-of-creativity-february-2025

To get involved with Erdington Arts Forum please email [email protected] or call 07858 219 629.

Follow Erdington Arts Forum on social media at www.facebook.com/ErdingtonArt or www.instagram.com/erdingtonarts

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: InkWell – a new writing group supporting recovery through expression

Words by Hema Chumber

(l-r) Ian Simmonds and Portland Jones with InkWell writing group at Oikos Cafe / Pic supplied by InkWell

In August 2024, Inkwell, a writing group aimed at helping individuals in recovery from trauma, addiction, and life-changing events was launched in Erdington.

The group was founded by Portland Jones, who faced challenges following a stroke that left her with hidden disabilities,  and Ian Simmonds, who recovered from a brain stem stroke and addiction.

Both founders shared similar experiences of struggling and recovery, with writing becoming their support tool for self-expression. Inkwell’s approach is centred on providing a supportive environment for people to express their thoughts, feelings and stresses through writing.

Pic taken from Adobe Stock Images

The group meets every other Saturday at Oikos Café on Erdington High Street, offering people the chance to share their experiences, journal or simply write for themselves, in a relaxed environment.

Inkwell has quickly grown, attracting a diverse range of participants from various backgrounds, all of whom are in recovery. The group’s organisers have been surprised by the success of the initiative, noting that many members have found the writing sessions to be comforting, and helpful in terms of personal growth and healing.

Ian shared: “Writing helped me to process my thoughts and emotions in a way in which nothing else could. We wanted to create a space where people feel safe and that they are not being judged, so others in recovery could use writing for the same purpose.

“We have seen how powerful writing can be, as a tool for healing. It has been very rewarding, to say the least, to watch people to use it and connect with their thoughts in an honest way.”

Pic taken from Adobe Stock Images

Portland added: “It is not about the skill of writing itself, like having the perfect grammar or structure – it is about getting people to put pen to paper about their emotions, and offering them a chance to reflect.

“We have had one person who has joined our group since the beginning, and told Ian and I that this setting has allowed them to express their feelings in a way they couldn’t before. The group has given them, and others, space to reflect and connect with others.”

Alongside its regular sessions, Inkwell is planning to launch an online magazine and hopes to publish an anthology of work written by individuals in the group.

This will provide the writers with a platform to showcase their work and experiences, as well as raise awareness within the community about the role creative writing can play in recovery.

The group is also considering expanding to offer online meetings later in the year, in response to increasing interest from people in Erdington’s neighbouring areas.

InkWell will be running writing sessions at Oikos Café on 8 February and 22 February, with more session booked in the months afterwards.

For more information about Inkwell and upcoming sessions, please visit www.inkwellwritinginrecovery.com 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]

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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