Tag: World Cup

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Get outside this summer with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Outdoor activities with Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

The football World Cup was an exciting time, and all the way from England’s dramatic victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo to their sad farewell from the tournament after losing to Argentina – people shared the experience together.

And whilst it wasn’t always an easy watch, the celebrations or commiserations at the final whistle showed just how much sport can make us feel. Joy, disappointment, excitement and hope can all come in the space of 90 minutes.

The tournament also reminds us that summer has arrived. And not long after the World Cup was over, children and young people finished school and have six weeks stretching out ahead of them.

While a slower pace can be welcome, it’s also a great opportunity to get outdoors.

Scan the QR Code above to find out more on Urban Devotion Birmingham

Playing outside, being active and spending time with friends does far more than fill the hours. It builds confidence, strengthens friendships, encourages creativity, and supports good mental wellbeing.

Whether it’s football in the park, games, or simply exploring, outdoor play helps children and young people grow in healthy ways.

At Urban Devotion Birmingham, we’ll be running activities across Erdington throughout the summer holidays, creating safe spaces where children and young people can have fun, make friends and try something new.

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

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

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Three Lions, One Erdington

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

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

As the World Cup arrives, the whole country starts to dream — and Erdington is no exception.

As England fans, we are once again limbering up for the nation’s favourite emotional triathlon: early optimism, confident armchair punditry, and that one mate insisting, usually through a mouthful of biscuits, that they “would have buried that chance.”

While England negotiates the sweaty-palmed business of penalties, VAR reviews and extra time viewed from behind a cushion, Erdington already knows what a strong team looks like. Across the area, volunteers, residents, community groups and local businesses are linking up beautifully – passing kindness, creating chances and making sure no one is left on the sidelines.

Logo of England national team on football jersey white background / Image from Adobe Stock

From our High Street traders and coffee mornings to youth activities, wellbeing sessions and neighbours checking in before full-time, Erdington is full of local legends putting in a proper shift.

Some lead from the front, others do the quiet midfield work that keeps everything together and moving forward. There are no transfer fees involved – just teamwork, tea and the occasional heroic raffle prize.

So, if England do go all the way and finally bring the World Cup home (and we know they can), expect a roar from Erdington loud enough to shake every shopfront on the High Street.

While the Three Lions chase history, let’s also celebrate Erdington’s own winning team: our neighbours, volunteers, and community groups who turn up week after week.

Come on England!

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

Click on the image below to read Witton Lodge Community Association’s COMMUNITY ANCHORS news, first published in the Erdington Local newspaper – out on shelf from 18 June. 

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