Let’s Get Together this April!
Join the Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme (ENNS) for a vibrant community gathering at St Barnabas Church on 10 April 2025, between 11am–2pm.
The annual, FREE, Let’s Get Together event offers residents across the Erdington constituency a chance to connect with local groups, professionals, and services that support independent living
and wellbeing.
Everyone is welcome to pop in and meet teams from ENNS-funded organisations, Occupational Therapists, Adult Social Care teams, as well as Social Prescribers.
The teams are on hand to help you explore activities, advice services, and community initiatives designed to tackle isolation, improve health, and enhance quality of life.
The ENNS team will also be available to answer questions and guide attendees to tailored support, including grants for community projects (up to £10,000).
St Barnabas Church, Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King
Come & Connect
ENNS supports older adults and younger adults with disabilities, fostering connections through partnerships with voluntary groups and social enterprises.
Whether you’re seeking a group to join or simply need practical advice, this event is your gateway to Erdington’s thriving community network.
ENNS Neighbourhood Networker Fauzia Begum said: “Our annual Let’s Get Together event provides a fantastic opportunity for members of the community to find out what’s available locally.
“Following a successful 2024 turnout, we are gearing up for an even bigger Let’s Get Together event on 10 April 2025.”
She added: “We are really excited to welcome our community on the day to connect with local groups and access vital resources available across our area.”
Event Details Date: 10th April 2025 Time: 11am – 2pm Venue: St Barnabas Church, High Street, Erdington, B23 6SJ
No booking required – drop in and join Erdington’s thriving community network!
For further information you can contact the ENNS team on (0121) 382 1930 or email [email protected]
Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association
Witton Lodge Community Association Chief Officer Afzal Hussain outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King
At Witton Lodge Community Association, we see the power of community-led action on a daily basis, and the incredible impact this has on improving the area and the lives of local residents.
Through our community hubs across the Erdington, we provide a comprehensive support system that is easily accessible and provides numerous services to thousands of residents in the heart of our community.
We continue to advocate for more community services and recently hosted visits from Cllr Mariam Khan, Cabinet Member of Health and Social Care and Joanne Roney, the newly appointed Managing Director for Birmingham City Council.
We also hosted a hugely successful marketplace at Perry Common Community Hall, bringing a diverse range of local community and council services direct to our residents.
Against a difficult financial backdrop for the City Council, we hope to continue to work with the Council and demonstrate that there is another way to deliver local services that work with the grain of communities.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) are thrilled to announce the upcoming Shaping Birmingham’s Future Together (SBFT) Marketplace Roadshow, coming directly to Perry Common Community Hall and delivered by WLCA.
This incredible community event is designed to bring vital local services and resources right to your doorstep. This event is perfect for everyone in the Erdington and North Birmingham community, whether you’re:
Seeking employment support
Looking for housing advice
Interested in health and wellbeing services
Wanting to get involved in community initiatives / volunteering
John Cotton, Leader of Birmingham City Council said: “The Shaping Birmingham’s Future Together Marketplace Roadshows are a great opportunity for people to learn more about the services and support available from Birmingham City Council and a wide range of partner organisations and community groups.”
He added: “These events showcase our city at its very best.”
WLCA at Perry Common Community Hall / Image by Ed King
Event details Date: Wednesday, 26 February 2025 Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Location: Witton Lodge Community Association, Perry Common Community Hall, Witton Lodge, 87 Witton Lodge Road, Erdington, B23 5JD
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
As part of a wider health initiative the Witton Lakes Eco Hub team invites you to take part in the Green Mile Challenge – a walking and running distance challenge that is inclusive to wheelchair users and designed to inspire health, fitness, and connection to nature.
Over 12 weeks, your mission is to rack up as many miles as you can, either individually or with a group. You can join anytime within the 12-weeks, but we do recommend at least 6 weeks to see progress.
Get involved in the Green Mile Challenge and enjoy:
Optional Free Mini Health Checks on Week 1 & 2 and 11 & 12 – Booking essential.
Weekly Green Steppers Walking & Striders Running Group – Starting at
Witton Lakes Eco Hub, off Faulkners Farm Drive, B23 7XX.
Witton Lakes Finale Celebration 5k Race Sat 26th April – Register to take part.
HOW IT WORKS Our Route: It’s 1-mile all the way round both Witton Lakes! Take on our scenic 5k loop around Witton Lakes, complete with 1km markers to help track your progress. Perfect for beginners, those training for Couch to 5K or those of you aiming for a personal best on your park run!
Track Your Progress: Download and use the free Strava Fitness App to record your distance and efforts, join The Green Mile WLCA Club.(This app is compatible with all other fitness app and sports watches)
Entrance to Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Pic by Ed King
Join a Group: Take part as an individual or connect with our local walking and running groups:
Red Hot Chilli Steppers Walking Group – Mondays, 11am – 12:30pm: Starting point – Perry Common Community Hall, 87 Witton Lodge Road, Perry Common, B23 5JD
Erdington Walking Group – Mondays & Fortnightly Thursdays, 6:30pm – 7:30pm: Various Locations, email: [email protected], call 07990 109 117 or search the group via Facebook.
Every Wednesday & Thursday you can also join the Eco Hub’s weekly walking and running programmes. Meet at the Eco Hub Café.
Green Striders Running Group (Couch to 5K) with Jemma – Wednesdays, 9:15am – 10:15am (Beginner to Intermediate).
Green Steppers Walking Group with Scott – Wednesdays, 1pm – 2pm (All abilities). Sensory Stroll with Diane – Thursdays, 11am – 12pm (Easy Walking). Celebrate Your Achievement – Eco Hub & Witton Lakes 5K Race!
At the end of the challenge, we’re hosting a 5K Finale Race Event on Sat 26th April at Witton Lakes, followed by a celebration social at the Witton Lakes Eco Hub with prizes, snacks, and drinks. Bring along your family and friends to cheer you on!
Healthy food and excercise equipment / Pic from Adobe Stock Images
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BENEFITS
This inclusive programme is designed for all fitness levels and offers something for everyone:
Improve Your Health: Gain fitness, enhance your physical and mental well-being, and embrace an active lifestyle.
Spend Time Outdoors: Explore the natural beauty of Witton Lakes while enjoying fresh air.
Make Connections: Meet like-minded people and form new friendships through group activities.
Mini Health Checks
To support your journey, we’re offering free health checks during the first two and final two weeks of the challenge. These health checks include BMI (height & weight), blood pressure, heart rate and hip-to-waist ratio. Please note that health checks are optional. If you are unable to attend during these times, contact us to arrange an alternative date. We accept individual or group bookings.
Week 1 & 2 Mini Health Checks (27 Jan – 7 Feb)
Monday – Friday: 10am – 12 pm & 2pm – 4pm
Saturday 1st Feb: 10am – 12 pm
It’s easy to join the Green Mile Programme, simply contact the Eco Hub Office on 0121 227 3200 or email the team, [email protected] or [email protected]
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Are you ready to kickstart your career or explore new employment horizons? Mark your calendars for Thursday, 30 January, 2025, as Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) brings you an unmissable Jobs Fair at St Barnabas Church on Erdington High Street!
From 10am to 2pm, job seekers will have the chance to connect with a diverse range of employers and training organisations, all under one roof. This event is the perfect opportunity for local residents to take a positive step towards securing employment or enhancing their skillsets.
Our Employment and Enterprise Advisor, Marcia Lewis, is enthusiastic about the upcoming event: “We’re thrilled to build on the success of our previous jobs fairs. These events are incredibly effective at connecting job seekers with employers who have live vacancies. Plus, we’ll also have training providers on hand to offer advice for those looking to upskill.”
Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to take the next step in your career journey. Whether you’re seeking employment or looking to enhance your skills, the WLCA Jobs Fair is the place to be on January 30th, 2025. See you there!
For more information, or if you’re looking for employment or skills support, email [email protected] to find out more about the excellent work we deliver at Witton Lodge Community Association.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA)
WLCA Chief Executive Afzal Hussain outside Health and Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Pic by Ed King
We recently celebrated three successful years on Erdington High Street, delivering essential services to more than 7,000 residents from our Health & Wellbeing Hub.
Despite recent news of safety concerns at this location, this doesn’t reflect our first-hand experience, and we are proud that the Erdington Health and Wellbeing Hub continues to be a cornerstone of community support, offering vital services in health, employment, housing, and financial advice.
In 2021, Witton Lodge Community Association made a strategic decision to take on the empty High Street facility. By investing and expanding our services over the years, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to drive positive change on the High Street and for the Erdington community. And as many of you will know we followed this up with ambitious plans to refurbish the former Erdington baths.
In another significant development, West Midlands Police has launched Operation Fearless, a major initiative to tackle crime and improve safety in Erdington.
This operation, funded by £880,000 seized from criminals, targets issues such as drug-related activities, anti-social behaviour, and violent crimes with the dedicated team already bringing tangible improvements to community safety.
Together with local residents, groups and partners, we remain committed to improving lives and livelihoods in Erdington. By working collaboratively, we know we can create a safer, more vibrant Erdington where our community can succeed and thrive.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Words supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
Minister of State for Employment McGovern & Paulette Hamilton MP meet young people at Witton Lodge / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
On Thursday 9 January, the Minister of State for Employment Alison McGovern MP attended a special event at Witton Lodge Community Association to discuss plans for reform of employment and skills in the UK.
The visit included a roundtable discussion with the North Birmingham Economic Recovery (NBER) Board as well as hearing directly from local young people about their experiences of looking for work.
Roundtable discussion on Labour reform
Minister McGovern engaged in a productive roundtable discussion with the NBER board including Chair and Erdington MP, Paulette Hamilton who shared their work to boost the local economy in North Birmingham by connecting local businesses and residents with sustainable opportunities.
This collaborative session highlighted the critical importance of community-led approaches in shaping effective employment policies, harnessing economic growth and securing investments, creating employment opportunities and connecting these to local communities.
During the roundtable, the Minister expressed interest in the successes and lessons learned from the partnership, highlighting the importance of place-based partnerships that offer essential wrap-around support. She also discussed effective ways to assist individuals facing significant challenges in securing employment, emphasising the role of local partner organisations in providing support and strategies for their successful integration into the workforce.
Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association, remarked: “We’re thrilled to welcome Minister McGovern and showcase our youth-focused initiatives at Witton Lodge and the progress of the North Birmingham Economic Recovery Board.
“Our community-driven strategy is creating opportunities for young people, addressing the critical challenges of youth unemployment in our area. Through collaborative efforts, we’re developing sustainable pathways to connect local young people with meaningful job prospects and skills development programmes, ensuring a brighter economic future for our next generation.”
Minister of State for Employment McGovern and Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton meet NBER Board Witton Lodge / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
Youth employment and skills workshop
Following the roundtable, the Minister actively participated in a busy employment and skills workshop with local young people, organised by Witton Lodge Community Association. This session provided key insights into employment and career opportunities for young people in our local area, aligning with NBER’s commitment to creating jobs and enhancing training opportunities tailored to community needs.
This hands-on session provided a unique opportunity for Minister McGovern to directly engage with local young people and hear their firsthand experiences and ideas about employment and career prospects.
During the session the participants provided key insights into employment and career opportunities for young people in our local area, revealing concerns about inadequate careers advice, lack of work experience opportunities, and challenges in securing employment due to insufficient childcare provision. It also highlighted the need for more accessible and user-friendly alternatives to traditional job centres that sometimes fall short in providing tailored support for young people.
During the workshop, the Minister listened intently as young participants shared their perspectives on the challenges, they face in the job market and shared some of the government’s plans for improving career opportunities for youth employment.
Minister for Employment Alison McGovern said: “The fantastic work being done here at Witton Lodge Community Association to support young people into employment is exactly what our Get Britain Working Plan is all about.
“As part of these reforms, we will be launching a Youth Guarantee trailblazer in the West Midlands to ensure all 18-21-years-olds are earning or learning. At the same time, we are transforming Jobcentres and connecting local work, health and skills services to boost employment, drive up opportunity and spread prosperity here in Erdington and across the country.”
Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton welcomes Minister for Employment Alison McGovern to Witton Lodge Community Association
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Paulette Hamilton MP attending Remembrance Day event at Abbey Primary School / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
(Ed’s note – this column was written for the Erdington Local printed edition and first published on 20.12.24)
Last month has been one of celebration, remembrance, and important parliamentary debates. I was delighted to join the 30th anniversary celebrations of Witton Lodge Community Association, a cornerstone of our community.
Their remarkable achievements over three decades are a testament to the strength and power of what local communities can achieve by working together.
On Remembrance Day, I had the privilege of joining Abbey Primary School for a heartfelt ceremony to honour those who gave their lives for our freedoms. Their moving tribute reminded us of the sacrifices that form the foundation of our liberties today.
In Parliament, the Assisted Dying Bill sparked an emotional debate. After much thought, I voted against the Bill, with 70% of the constituents who contacted me urging the same. As a former NHS nurse, I firmly believe in the dignity and value of every life.
Paulette Hamilton MP in Westminster, London / Pic supplied by Paulette Hamilton MP
I remain deeply concerned about introducing such a law, particularly when our NHS is already overstretched. I am committed to championing improved palliative care, working with Hospice UK, Birmingham Hospice, and others to ensure no one is left without the support they need at the end of life.
November also marked 50 years since the Birmingham Pub Bombings, a heartbreaking chapter in our city’s history. I have written to the Home Secretary, calling for justice for the victims and their families.
As we approach the festive season, I wish everyone in Erdington, Kingstanding, Castle Vale, and South Oscott a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
Ladders of Opportunity second round recipients at BMet Erdington Skills Centre, Edwards Rd / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
The Ladders of Opportunity Bursary, established in memory of Erdington MP Jack Dromey and Councillor Penny Holbrook, has achieved remarkable success in its second round of funding.
The initiative, aimed at supporting young residents living in the Erdington Constituency, saw applications triple from the first round, demonstrating its growing impact and importance in the community.
For both rounds, a total of £20,000 was awarded to 23 young individuals across the Erdington Constituency, each receiving up to £1,000 to support their career aspirations. The bursary recipients represent a diverse range of career paths, including aspiring pharmacists, dentists, teachers, nurses, youth workers, solicitors, midwives, and mechanical engineers.
In addition to financial assistance, the bursary programme offers vital mentorship and coaching opportunities. These connections with experienced professionals provide invaluable guidance for the recipients’ personal and professional development and can provide excellent insight into future careers.
The bursary is a collaborative effort, generously funded by dedicated partners including Witton Lodge Community Association, IM Properties, BMet College, The Pioneer Group, and Urban Devotion. This partnership exemplifies commitment to nurturing local talent, working together to create a brighter future for young people across Erdington.
Ladders of Opportunity sign identifying project partners / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
A special event, hosted at BMet Erdington Skills Centre brought together the successful applicants and guests, alongside the panel and community leaders, including Perry Common Councillor Jilly Bermingham. The gathering provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of these inspiring young individuals and hear about their plans for the future.
Afzal Hussain, Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association, expressed his enthusiasm for the inaugural Ladders of Opportunity bursary programme, which has distributed £20,000 to promising young individuals across the Erdington Constituency.
He told: “Congratulations to all the recipients whose determination to achieving their goals have earned them this well-deserved recognition and support. The standard of applications has been exceptional and it’s an absolute pleasure to see these aspiring young people embrace this opportunity.”
(l-r) Linda Hines MBE from Witton Lodge Community Association and Ladders of Opportunity second round recipient Anisha Begum Mukhta / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
Recognising the success of the programme and the pressing needs within the community, Afzal, emphasised the importance of expanding this initiative. He added: “Our aim is to increase the funding for 2025 by bringing on board new partners who share our passion and vision for supporting young people and education.
“We are hopeful this proactive approach will ensure that more young individuals realise their potential and contribute positively to their community, reinforcing the idea that investing in youth is an investment in the future of Erdington, and the city as a whole.”
(l-r) Kerry Amory from IM Properties and Ladders of Opportunity second round recipient Ellie Turner / Pic supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association
By seeking new partnerships, the programme aims to secure additional resources that will enable even more young people in Erdington to benefit from financial support and mentorship opportunities.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
Every year in the UK, a staggering 8 million real Christmas trees are tossed aside, contributing approximately 12,000 tonnes of waste to our landfills. This Christmas, we wanted to provide some eco-friendly tips for disposing your Christmas tree which are guaranteed to put you on Santa’s nice list!
Number One – Re-using your Artificial Trees
Artificial trees are made from a combination of materials and therefore cannot be recycled. Re- use your artificial trees as long as you can!
Number Two – Re-planting Trees
Mark out the area where the tree’s roots will spread, adding an extra 1–2 ft. Dig a hole that’s 2–3 times the width of the tree’s root ball and 1–2 in less deep than the height of the root ball. Please be aware that Christmas trees grow to an average 1 foot in height per year but this can vary from with different types.
Number Three – Recycling Trees
Trees can also be disposed of at any of the city’s five Household Recycling Centres:
• Sutton Coldfield, B75 7BB
• Perry Barr, B42 2TU
• Castle Bromwich, B35 7AG
• Tyseley, B11 2BA
• Kings Norton B30 3JT
Number Four – Recycling Real Trees
Birmingham City Council offers a free Christmas tree recycling service from December 26 to January 31, trees can be dropped off at parks across Birmingham from 9AM – 4PM. The nearest drop off point for Erdington residents is: Sutton Park, Visitor Centre, adjacent to Town Gate, B74 2YT.
Volunteers on the Treecycling campaign with Birmingham Hospice
Number Five – Christmas Tree Collection – Birmingham Hospice
The Birmingham Hospice has organised a Christmas tree recycling programme called Tree- cycling. On the 11th and 12th of January, Birmingham Hospice’s volunteers will collect and recycle Christmas trees in return for a donation.
They will be covering the following postcodes: B13, B14, B15, B17, B26, B27, B28, B29, B30, B31, B32, B38, B90, B91, B92.
Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.
