Peer Support Workers (PSWs) – people who draw on their own lived experience to support others facing similar challenges – are becoming an increasingly important part of services across the voluntary and community sector. Read more
Fuel Poverty Awareness Day (26 November) reminds us that, across Birmingham and the West Midlands, many households are struggling to keep their homes warm and energy bills manageable. With almost one quarter of households in Birmingham living in fuel poverty, the impact is felt not only in people’s bank accounts, but also in their physical and mental health. Erin Glover shares how at BrumEnergy, we see firsthand how cold, damp, or poorly insulated homes shape families’ daily lives. Read more
BVSC Research, the University of Birmingham, and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) are launching WM-Adapt: a groundbreaking project tackling climate change challenges in the West Midlands. Read more
As I sit down to reflect on The Power of Us conference, I’m filled with gratitude and admiration—for the people, the energy, the shared vision, and the powerful conversations that unfolded throughout the day. Held at Birmingham City Football Club on 9 April 2025, the venue was absolutely buzzing from start to finish. The event was so well attended that even the coffee queue was alive with discussion and idea-sharing. Read more
We all know what delegation is supposed to be. Getting stuff done through others. Easy. But in the Charity sector it gets bogged down with all sorts of emotional stuff that gets in the way. Read more
Earlier this month, Community Energy England launched the Community Energy Fortnight, a two-week campaign dedicated to promoting community-led energy initiatives and empowering communities to take charge of their energy future through sustainable practices. This year’s theme was empowerment, highlighting the potential of community owned energy projects. Read more
One of the UK's leading property developers, Stoford, has partnered with Food Justice Network and The Active Wellbeing Society to sponsor the newly launched, Community Meals Partnership, a new initiative aimed at using food to build networks and strengthen communities across the city. Donating three tonnes of food, the sponsorship has commenced with its first Community Meal with a series of more meals set to take place later this year. Read more
It’s a sad truth that while Christmas often inspires acts of kindness towards vulnerable people, the same cannot always be said for the warmer months. But SIFA Fireside, the Birmingham support service for those experiencing homelessness, is making sure that the solution to this problem is in the post. Read more
From June 7th – 9th Birmingham came together for the national Big Help Out, a weekend of volunteering action to support local people, communities and good causes. People from across the city gave their time and skills to support local charities, voluntary and community groups. This blog shines a light on some of the amazing activities that happened, and the difference made by those who volunteered. Read more
Medaille Trust is a national charity that supports survivors of modern slavery and trafficking across England. We do this via our safehouse accommodation and through our outreach projects - the Moving on Project (of which we have five hubs across England). We also partner with law enforcement authorities and deliver awareness raising of modern slavery and trafficking in communities and to organisations. Read more
This week is National Volunteers’ Week (June 3rd – 9th 2024). It’s a chance for us to recognise, celebrate and thank volunteers across the country for all they contribute to their local communities and wider society, and an opportunity to inspire others to give volunteering a go. Many charities, community groups and local services across Birmingham involve or are led by volunteers who give their time, skills and energy to support local people and good causes. Read more
A Birmingham social enterprise, ChangeKitchen CIC, is ‘cooking up change for good’ and is on a mission to provide community meals for vulnerable individuals during the current cost of living crisis. Read more