Tag: WLCA

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Stronger together – why community engagement is vital for Erdington

Community Voice session run by WLCA at Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

With its rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds, Erdington thrives on its diversity. While this multicultural makeup is a huge strength it also highlights the need for robust community engagement.

When people from all walks of life actively participate together, it doesn’t just feel good, it can become the engine for positive, lasting change across our constituency.

Community engagement in areas like Erdington is about more than just attendance at meetings. It’s about ensuring every voice is heard and valued, regardless of language, origin or background.

Our Community Voice project provides residents across the area with a platform to influence and create services to help tackle issues impacting people and communities, head-on. This united viewpoint and co-production of services is far more powerful than any initiative simply handed down from authority figures and decision makers.

That is why, since being established in May 2024 by Witton Lodge Community Association, the Community Voice initiative has proven to be a great vehicle for empowering people to make the changes they want to see happen. New initiatives around housing, arts, health and youth are currently being developed.

This approach ensures that efforts are impactful and sustainable and is helping to create a unified, supportive network working for the greater good of Erdington.

Community Voice is yours. Get involved and make things happen.

To find out more about Community Voice or to get involved with the project, please call Steve Sharma on (0121) 382 1930 or email: [email protected]

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Witton Lodge Community Quiz returns to Perry Common – Friday 3 October

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Guess what’s making its long-awaited return to thrill and delight all in one night?

That’s right, the beloved Witton Lodge Community Quiz – held at Perry Common Hall on Friday 3 October, as organised by Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA).

So, dust off thinking caps and refill your lucky pens for some quizzical fun with friends, family and neighbours.

After an absence of more than three years our popular brainteasing bonanza is back bigger and better than ever.

Running from 7pm to 8.30pm, this is your chance to enjoy a laugh-out-loud evening for young and old alike. You can expect rounds packed with fun twists and cheeky surprises.

So why not come and pit your wits against some of our community’s very own Stephen Fry’s and Carol Vorderman’s.

Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph by Ed King

The Witton Lodge Community Quiz is £2 per person with payment on the door. Teams of up to six people are allowed with children aged under 10 admitted free.

You can’t afford to miss the quiz that’s more than just a night of questions and answers, it’s a night of connection, laughter sprinkled with a little friendly competition.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Community groups invited to join B:CAN and drive change in Birmingham

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Community anchor organisations across Birmingham are invited to join the ranks of a new collaboration network aiming to transform local lives and revitalise our neighbourhoods.

The offer is open to all community-led groups who deliver services which benefit city communities and the people living and working in them.

The Birmingham Community Action Network (B:CAN) brings together some of the most dynamic and influential community organisations in support of one strategic goal – to drive and deliver impactful change across the city.

A number of B:CAN led initiatives have already taken shape in communities across Birmingham. B:CAN Mental Health is being coordinated and delivered by five partners who deploy friendly service advisors to help people on a range of issues.

B:CAN Energy, supported by Energy Redress funding, involves teams of Community Energy Advisors providing people with accessible energy advice to help them save money, reduce household energy use and support with suppliers and debt issues.

Strength in numbers

Now, organisations are being invited to apply to join the Network to further strengthen collaboration, improve provision and extend the reach of services to those people who need it most across Birmingham.

Witton Lodge Community Association is a proud member of B:CAN with Chief Officer, Afzal Hussain leading the network as its current Chair. He said the Network’s potential to impact lives and create a legacy of positive change for Birmingham is an opportunity not to be missed.

“This new network has come together to do things differently in tackling and reducing inequality and deprivation in Birmingham and local communities need a central role in the decision-making process, so effective change is delivered where it is needed most,” told Afzal.

He added: “We welcome applications from organisations and groups based in Birmingham that share our ethos of community-led action. This is a fantastic opportunity to not only strengthen the B:CAN network and reach more residents but to make new connections and access funding opportunities.

“Whether you’re a small, local group just starting out, or a larger established organisation, B:CAN is your chance to develop sector connections that will help develop and grow your business while enhancing the Network’s reach and output.”

So far, 21 of the city’s most respected community organisations have joined B:CAN to work together to collaboratively bring positive and impactful change across the city.

Join B:CAN

Applications are now being invited from Birmingham based community organisations to join the network as either a Member or Affiliate and we also welcome applications from partners who are interested in funding the B:CAN network or B:CAN projects.

For more information on joining the network visit www.bcan.co.uk or CLICK HERE.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: School uniform giveaway benefits families

Kingstanding police helping distribute school uniforms at McDonald’s in Kingstanding / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) were thrilled and privileged to support a wonderful school uniform giveaway which has given local families a timely boost ahead of the new academic year.

Kingstanding Police Constable, Faye Purcell, came up with the fantastic idea of kitting out primary school children, while sitting in her garden three weeks ago! 

Community collaboration

More than 40 families have benefited from the Back-To-School initiative which was delivered in partnership with Vision 4 All, Perry Common Community Watch, and Remmer Restaurants (McDonald’s).

“A few weeks ago I was on leave, just sat in my garden and thinking to myself, what can I do to give something back to the local community,” said Faye.

“Then the school uniform idea just popped into my head and I felt it was something that could be achieved. I made a couple of phone calls to see if people would be interested in supporting the idea and lo-and-behold here we are, three weeks later, giving families and their children a real boost. It’s fantastic.”

An appeal was put out to Erdington families with children aged from five-to-11 years inviting them to claim free school essentials including uniform, stationary, pencil cases and bags.

Within 24-hours of the project being posted on social media all the had been claimed; issued to parents on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Vision 4 You helping distribute school uniforms at McDonald’s in Kingstanding / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Families benefit

Two sessions, one held at Witton Lakes Eco Hub and the other at the McDonald’s restaurant on College Road in Kingstanding gave families the chance to collect their items.

Franchise Manager at McDonald’s Nikki Remmer, said: “It’s been really wonderful to support families in the local community in this way.

“As soon as we heard about the project we wanted to get involved.”

The uniforms were donated by Vision 4 All.

Founder of B Major CIC, Bianca-Jade Adeniran, said: “This was the group’s second annual school uniform giveaway which is an amazing initiative, especially in these times that are challenging for so many families.”

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Volunteers on the Ground for Eco Hub Works

Groundwork West Midlands Corporate Volunteers working at Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

A partnership project with Groundwork West Midlands saw a team of Corporate Volunteers pour into Witton Lakes Eco Hub to carry out landscape improvements.

Volunteers from HS2 were on site to help to demolish the Community Orchards existing raised beds, relocate Compost Bins and repaint several metal benches.

Supported by volunteers from the Friends of Witton Lakes (FOWL), they also completed preservation treatment works on the Eco Hub’s fencing and wooden play equipment.

Chair of Witton Lodge Community Association, Linda Hines MBE, who has the same position with FOWL, praised the collaboration effort.

“Several years ago, Groundwork West Midlands got in touch with us to inform us that they organise groups of Corporate Volunteers to help with community projects.

“Over the next three years we had volunteers from different organisations come to help us twice a year. Today’s visit has been fabulous!! The volunteers worked solidly all day long and have transformed the grounds. We are really proud of what they have done and they are rightly proud of themselves too.”

Groundwork West Midlands Corporate Volunteers working at Witton Lakes Eco Hub / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Rachel Riley, Healthy Lifestyles Project Officer at Groundwork West Midlands, helped to coordinate the work.

She said: “We brought 21 volunteers to Witton Lakes Eco Hub. The site is beautiful and very well run by the staff and volunteers.

“We were made to feel very welcome by the team at Witton Lodge Community Association, so I just want to say, on behalf of all of us, a big thank you.”

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

For more on Groundwork West Midlands visit www.groundwork.org.uk/westmidlands

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Growth, Renewal and Fun

Witton Lodge Community Association Chief Officer Afzal Hussain, outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdingotn High Street / Photograph by Ed King

Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association

At Witton Lodge Community Association, we’re proud to see our Witton Lakes Eco Hub continue to thrive as a vibrant, welcoming space for local residents.

This summer has been especially exciting, with a packed programme that has brought together people of all ages and backgrounds to learn, connect, and just enjoy nature. With a mix of workshops, outdoor learning, and family-friendly activities – there really is something for everyone.

A key highlight has been the completion of the Makers Yard – a brand-new creative maker-space rooted in the principles of recycle and the circular economy. Designed to spark creativity and enterprise, the Makers Yard gives residents the chance to develop practical skills, explore new ideas, and contribute to a culture of recycling and sustainable making.

We’re grateful to support from BMet College, PF Stokes and Bournville Village Trust and of course Friends of Witton Lakes who have either offered or are already running workshops from the Makers Yard.

We’ve also had the pleasure of welcoming a number of key stakeholders to the Eco Hub, including funders, partners, and civic leaders. Their visits reflect the growing recognition of the work we’re doing to build vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable neighbourhoods.

At Witton Lodge, we know that real change starts locally. The Eco Hub and Makers Yard are more than just facilities – they’re platforms for showcasing local talent and strengthening community connections.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: dig into family fun this Active August at Witton Lakes Eco Hub

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

On your marks, get set and go go go and enjoy an Active August at Witton Lakes Eco Hub!

Our action-packed schedule of fun family-friendly activities means there something for everyone to savour, every weekday from Monday 4 to Friday 29 August.

You can unleash your creative instincts with our arts and crafts sessions and Bulls in The City workshops; get closer to local wildlife with Duckling Watch and give those green-fingers a good work out with gardening activities which include growing fruit, herbs and vegetables.

You can also learn how to build your own planter.

Family enjoying summer activities with Witton Lodge Community Assocation / Photograph supplied by WLCA

For the more adventurous of you why not share your detective skills in our scavenger hunts or put your imagination to good use with our creative sessions or in our newly opened Makers Yard!

With a range of outdoor games, workshops and a food/gardening events, every appetite is catered for – so get involved and make sure this August is your most active yet!

Most Active August activities are FREE – check the flyer for full details.

It all kicks off on Monday, 4 August from 1pm at Witton Lakes Eco Hub, off Faulkners Farm Drive, B23 7XX.

If you have any questions or need further information please call our friendly team on (0121) 227 3200.

On your marks …

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Celebrating and exploring the importance of a good neighbourhood

Witton Lodge Community Association Chie Officer, Afzal Hussain, outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association

We all know neighbourhoods matter; they always have and always will.

Neighbourhoods have a profound impact on our daily lives and experiences, and a good neighbourhood is essential for our communities to thrive.

At Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) alongside our focus on communities, neighbourhood quality and safety has been at the heart of our work for over three decades. We have taken this commitment to the next level by bringing our communities together with leading academics to create a Decent Neighbourhood Standard.

Our ambition remains the same – to create neighbourhoods that are safe, inclusive, and sustainable. Through this initiative we aim to create a universal but adaptable standard that can be applied to both new and existing neighbourhoods.

This will help identify local priorities, guide policy and investment decisions that are actively shaped, influenced, supported, and led by local communities.

The success of Operation Fearless, a recent initiative by West Midlands Police, had a remarkable impact on community safety in and around Erdington High Street. And recent community activities organised by Erdington BID builds on this success.

At WLCA, we remain committed to supporting these efforts, through our services at our Erdington Wellbeing Hub, and our plans to transform the former Erdington Baths into a dynamic enterprise facility.

Over the coming months we will exploring how the Decent Neighbourhood Framework can be used to engage local communities, policy makers and investors to ‘lock-in’ improvements and continue the development of Erdington as a place that we’re all proud of.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Get into the groove for community engagement – return of live annual music event Track Friday

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Witton Lodge Community Association are delighted to once more throw the doors open on our annual live music event Track Friday.

Residents are invited to enjoy a showcase of singing, dancing and poetry at Perry Common Community Hall on 11 July when some of North Birmingham’s most creative young talents take centre stage.

Once the lights go down people can enjoy the artistry of Chyna Victoria, Zach Gallagher, Tee Leonie, Ray Ritess, Sensei Jay, Spencer, Amadeus TMM, Satch, Chardevaughan, Rochae, Dsix Seven Ess, Roman, and Raja. A special artist hour will also feature Juddah James and Rufus Rose.

Local singer Jamie Lee, who appeared at last year’s Track Friday, will be back to wow the crowds again. Having stolen the show 12 months ago, Witton Lodge’ directors booked her to perform at our 30th anniversary gala in November!

Performing artists and event founder, Dellano Lewis (second from right), at Track Friday 2024 / Photograph supplied by Witton Lodge Community Association

Dellano Lewis, Community Engagement Officer at Witton Lodge, established Track Friday in 2016. The annual community engagement showpiece provides a platform for the organisation to connect young people to some of its services.

Dellano, who will also be performing at the event as his creative alter-ego, BeeNiice, said: “Track Friday is more than just a live music show.

“It gives the performers, and everyone who attends the show, the opportunity to access Witton Lodge services which can support their education, training and employment needs.”

This year’s event is being sponsored by, and delivered in partnership with, Birmingham Metropolitan College; with a number of its students set to perform.

Hosted by Junelle Jae, with music courtesy of DJ Gaz H, and featuring guest speaker Evo Wiser, the doors open on Track Friday 2025 at 5.30pm at 87 Witton Lodge Road (B23 5JD) with the live performances starting at 6pm. There will also be a prize raffle, food and refreshments.

Entry is FREE to this amazing night of music and creativity. To attend, simply book your free ticket via Eventbrite – CLICK HERE. You must be aged 16 or over to attend.

For more details, please call Dellano on 0121 382 1930 or email: [email protected]

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Summer vibes with Witton Lodge Community Association

Witton Lodge Community Association Chief Executive, Afzal Hussain, outside the Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

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

June has launched Erdington into summer with a host of exciting and memorable events which celebrate the strengths of our community.

Volunteers Week started the ball rolling, giving us the chance to thank all the wonderful people who give their time to support their communities and our work at Witton Lodge Community Association. Our volunteers are the bedrock of who we are and what we do. It was a privilege to recognise their efforts during a special ceremony held at Perry Common Community Hall.

If you would like to find out more about volunteering opportunities or any aspect of our work, please get in touch with us.

Most of you will be aware of Operation Fearless, a West Midlands Police operation launched to tackle and reduce crime on and around Erdington High Street. The campaign also saw businesses and community groups work together to create a safer High Street.

Building on this initiative, we warmly welcome the series of community events organised by Erdington Business Improvement District (BID), where families can enjoy activities, games and entertainment along Erdington High Street – a throwback to the summer community carnivals of yesteryear.

Over the years, through the launch of the Erdington Wellbeing Hub, and the refurbishment of the former Erdington Baths we continue to play our part in helping to restore the vibrancy to the High Street.

Here’s to a great summer!

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.