In the News – October Erdington Local

October 21, 2025
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The October issue of Erdington Local is out now!

Spooktacular Halloween at Witton Lakes Eco Hub!

Join us at Witton Lakes Eco Hub on Friday 31st October 2025 (3–5pm) for a frightfully fun community celebration! The Hub will once again transform into a Spooktacular Halloween venue, packed with family-friendly activities including apple-bobbing, spooky crafts, face painting, and our popular Pumpkin Paddock.

Last year’s event welcomed over 300 residents, and we can’t wait to see you again for another afternoon of fun, creativity, and community spirit. Paul Tse, Flourishing Communities Officer, says: “Our Halloween event brings people together to celebrate the season and enjoy everything the Eco Hub has to offer.”

The event is free entry, but please note, tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and must be collected by an adult.

For more information, call 0121 227 3200.
Don’t forget your costume, it’s going to be a scream!

Celebrating Volunteers: King’s Award for Voluntary Service Information Session

Witton Lodge Community Association recently hosted the first of two King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) information sessions at Perry Common Community Hall.

Led by Afzal Hussain, Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands, the session celebrated the outstanding work of local volunteers and the positive impact they make across our communities. Presented annually, the King’s Award for Voluntary Service recognises exceptional volunteer groups whose dedication and commitment bring lasting benefits to people and places, a true mark of community excellence.

Representatives from local volunteer groups attended to learn more about the KAVS application process and the significance of this prestigious national honour.

Our second information session was on Monday 20th October in partnership with BVSC and Hays, continuing to spread the word about the Kings Award for Voluntary Service.

Break the Habit – Free Stop Smoking Support

Ready to quit smoking? Break the Habit, delivered with Public Health Birmingham, offers up to six weeks of free, tailored support to help you stop for good.

Choose your own quit date and receive:

  • Free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

  • A Free Stop Smoking Kit, including a sensory aid to manage cravings.

Register anytime before March 2026 and start your journey to a healthier, smoke-free future.

Sign up today and take control of tomorrow by scanning the QR code below!

Jobs Fair Success Leads to New Opportunities

Over 100 jobseekers attended our recent Jobs Fair at Perry Common Community Hall, connecting with employers and training providers including BMet, TJ Solutions, and Acorns Children’s Hospice.

Building on this success, Witton Lodge Community Association is launching the second Social Enterprise Programme on 4th November, helping residents develop their own businesses and boost the local economy.

Marcia Lewis, Employment and Enterprise Advisor, said: “Face-to-face events like this are invaluable. We’re proud to connect people with opportunities that help them grow, gain confidence, and progress in their careers.” To find out more and to get involved, contact Marcia using the contact details below!

We were delighted to welcome members of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) to Witton Lodge Community Association to learn more about our Decent Neighbourhood Standard, a framework that empowers residents to shape and improve their communities.

Chief Officer Afzal Hussain explained that the Standard focuses not just on housing quality but also on the environment, social connections, and opportunities to help reduce inequality.

The visit highlighted how collaboration between residents, community groups, and housing providers drives meaningful change. Through our Community Voice Forum, local people are helping to shape priorities around safety, green spaces, and health, ensuring neighbourhoods truly reflect community needs.

Read the full stories in the article below!

WLCA Community Anchor Oct 1 WLCA Community Anchor Oct 2