News and Updates from Sutton Coldfield Neighbourhood Network Scheme
Hate Crime Awareness Week (9-17 October)
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Get help from BVSC for your community group to tackle hate crime together.
- National Hate Crime Awareness Week takes place 10-17 October
- Birmingham Hate Crime Awareness Week launches 9 October
- Hate Crime Awareness Roadshow to visit communities across Birmingham City
- Get involved in raising awareness or getting help to tackle hate crime in your community
About National Hate Crime Awareness Week – 10 – 17 October
National Hate Crime Awareness Week (National HCAW) is an annual week of action to tackle hate crime, held between the 2nd to 3rd Saturday in October- this year taking place 10-17 October 2026.
The national week aims to encourage the authorities (Government, Police and Councils), key partners and communities affected by hate crime to work together to tackle hate crime incidents across the UK.
The anti-hate crime charity which organises the event believe that it is important to remember those we have lost, those who need our ongoing support, and to educate others to bring an end to hate.
They deliver a programme of Hate Crime Projects including an annual H.O.P.E campaign to raise awareness and keep tackling hate crime firmly on the national agenda.
To raise awareness of the week, download resources here.
Download resources here
What’s Happening in Birmingham- 9 – 17 October
Birmingham City Council’s Cohesion and Community Safety Teams are bringing partners together to raise awareness of hate crime, increase reporting, and ensure people know where to access support.
A Hate Crime Awareness Roadshow will launch Hate Crime Awareness Week at the Council House on 9th October 2026, before travelling to locations across Birmingham.
Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector organisations, West Midlands Police, and other key partners can help spread the word and engage communities.
If your organisation would like to participate or promote awareness in your area, please contact cohesion@birmingham.gov.uk as soon as possible
Please check back on this page for further updates to Birmingham City events
BVSC Support for Your Community Group
BVSC are supporting National Hate Crime Awareness Week and Birmingham City partner activity, as part of supporting VCFSE sector to tackle hate crime, along with wider issues such as Community Cohesion, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and Race Equality.
Resources relating to tackling Hate Crime and Community Cohesion for your community group are available here:
Resources
Hate Crime: If you become aware of a hate crime, please refer to the guidance on how to report the incident. The resources include details of VCFSE based local hate crime reporting centres who can offer support, advice and ways to report without having to talk directly to the police.
Birmingham Community Safety PartnershipWest Midlands Police
Brummies United Against Racism and Hate Crime: Brummies have come together to create the 'Brummies United Against Racism and Hate Crime' initiative, and have developed a poster campaign for sharing across neighbourhoods. For more information, see the Facebook group here:
Brummies United Against Racism and Hate Crime
National Hate Crime Awareness Week - October each year: This is a week of action to encourage the authorities, key partners and communities affected by hate to work together to tackle hate crime across the UK. Take part in local events or organise your own. For more information:
National Hate Crime Awareness Week
Violent Extremism: If you are concerned about violent extremism, please refer to guidance on how to report this through the Prevent Scheme here:
Report Violent Extremism
Small Steps: Small Steps is a specialist training company aimed at educating frontline staff, educational establishments, community activists and young people about the dangers of Extreme Right-Wing (ERW) extremism via quality training and resources delivered by people with lived experience of extremism.
Birmingham City Council - Community Safety & Resilience Team: The City Council Community Safety & Resilience Team provides support around Hate Crime and Community Cohesion.
Birmingham City Council - Community Safety & Resilience Team
Birmingham City of Sanctuary: Birmingham is a City of Sanctuary, committing to include all refugees and migrants visiting, residing or working in the City.
Birmingham City of Sanctuary
Birmingham City Council - Resettlement & Migration Team: The City Council Resettlement and Migration Team provides support around resettlement and migration.
Birmingham City Council - Resettlement & Migration Team
Migrant Support: The Migrant Advice Portal is a hub to access support and to better connect asylum, refugee and migrant services across Birmingham and the West Midlands. This includes details of VCFSE migrant support services.
Migrant Advice Portal
The RMC Charity: The RMC Charity (previously known as RMC- Refugee and Migrant Centre) empowers refugees and migrants to overcome barriers by providing free, expert support for successful community integration.
Birmingham Race Impact Group (BRIG): BRIG is committed to promoting racial justice in Birmingham. They lead on the Birmingham Race Impact Summits and on supporting Birmingham to become an Anti-Racist City.
BRIG
VCFSE Mini Race Impact Summit: BVSC worked with BRIG and VCFSE partners on the VCFSE Mini Race Impact Summit and Position Paper.
VCFSE MRIS
BRAP: A charity looking to transform the way we think and do equality.
BRAP
Birmingham Council of Faiths: A charity supporting relationships between different faith groups and partners across Birmingham City
BCF Footsteps: Faiths for a Low Carbon Future: Footsteps is a Birmingham Council of Faiths project, bringing together faith groups in Birmingham, to respond to the challenge of moving to a low carbon future.
BCF Footsteps: Faiths for a Low Carbon Future
Uplift Adult and Youth CIC: Uplift was established with a vision to create a thriving and connected community, with their centre serving as a hub for engagement, learning and shared experiences.
Ways for Wellbeing: Ways for Wellbeing work with individuals to support their wellbeing.
BVSC Directories: A webpage listing VCFSE and partner directories, organisations and services across Birmingham City. Use this to search for wider information and support.
Birmingham City Council- Public Participation Team: The City Council Public Participation Team makes sure that citizens' voices are included in all Council decision-making and service design. This includes the work that the Council undertake around hate crime and community cohesion.
Birmingham City Council - Public Participation Team
Be Well Wellbeing Toolkit: A toolkit created for all staff involved in, or responsible for, staff wellbeing in refugee and migration organisations. It will encourage inclusive conversations about staff wellbeing and help you create a wellbeing policy.
Be Well Wellbeing Toolkit
BVSC Community Cohesion Statement and Support, 2 October 2025: In October 2025, BVSC Chief Executive Brian Carr issued a statement on Community Cohesion. BVSC offered support to the VCFSE sector on Community Cohesion issues.
Statement and Support
Birmingham City Partnership Board Statement, 24 November 2025: In November 2025, members of the Birmingham City Partnership Board issued a statement on Community Cohesion: Forward Together for a City Beyond Racism
Birmingham City Partnership Board Statement
VCFSE Community Cohesion Summit Report: BVSC and BRIG convened a VCFSE Community Cohesion Summit in February 2026
VCFSE Community Cohesion Summit Report
Sutton Coldfield Neighbourhood Network Scheme recruiting
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Age Connects West Midlands
Neighbourhood Networker and Digital Support Officer
22
Hours per Week
£16,176.16 per annum
Based in Sutton Coldfield
Make a Difference in Your Community
Age Connects West Midlands is looking for a Neighbourhood Networker & Digital Support Officer to support local people, community groups and organisations across Sutton Coldfield.
This is an exciting opportunity to join our innovative team and help strengthen community connections while promoting digital inclusion.
About the Role
You will:
• Support
and commission local organisations to deliver community activities.
• Build relationships with community groups, partners and volunteers.
• Coordinate digital inclusion sessions across Birmingham.
• Promote local services, activities and opportunities.
• Maintain Birmingham City Council's Connect
to Support directory.
• Help people stay connected, independent and engaged within their communities.
What We're Looking For
✔
Experience in community development, community engagement or digital inclusion.
✔ Strong
communication and relationship-building skills.
✔ Good
digital skills and confidence working with a range of stakeholders.
✔ A
positive, proactive and creative approach to problem-solving.
What We Offer
• Free
onsite parking.
• Additional annual leave linked to length of service.
• Employee Wellbeing Scheme.
• Perkbox employee benefits.
• Full induction and training.
• A varied and rewarding role where no two days are the same.
Apply Now
To arrange an informal discussion or apply, please send your CV and a covering letter explaining how you meet the role requirements to
Pete.Millington@AgeConnectsWM.org.uk
Please note:
Please note, we may close this vacancy before the advertised closing date if we receive a high level of suitable applications, so we encourage early applications
Closing
Date: 2 October
2026
Funded by Birmingham City Council
GDPR training package for Sutton Coldfield Assets
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The training pack is in an accessible electronic format with speech, text and pictures which is ideal for individuals or small groups to watch on a laptop or computer.
The training has 13 modules on MP4 which each take about 5 minutes, making it easy to do all in one go, in bite sized parts with breaks or one module at a time. James has designed the training pack to the specifications of the NNS team, so it is pitched at volunteer board members and managers and paid staff of small community groups. The training pack is free to assets in Sutton Coldfield who identify as not-for-profit community and voluntary sector groups, to whom it is completely free of charge.
In the future we will consider distributing the course to other community assets and NNS networks in Birmingham.
The training course includes:
- Introduction
- What is personal data?
- The Special Data
- Whose data are we talking about?
- Who is responsible for the data?
- The Lawful basis
- Who can I share data with?
- Data Subject Rights Part 1
- Data Subject Rights Part 2
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- How do you assess the risks?
- Security
- What to do in a data breach?
James Robson is the founder and CEO of Datum Longevitus, a UK-based data protection, privacy consultancy and compliance firm.
If you are interested in completing our Data Protection training for free, please send an email to the NNS team at nns@ageconnectswm.org.uk
Tell us the name of your not-for-profit community organisation and location. Please also give us an idea how many people will benefit from the training (names not necessary), also their roles in the organisation (number of staff, volunteers, board members, other beneficiaries).
We will also request a short review and report about the training within 3 months of you receiving it.
The training is for local organisations, it is branded with the SCNNS logo and is not for wide distribution.
The training course is not credited but SCNNS will be happy to issue a certificate of participation to your organisation on completion of 3 or more people.
Birmingham Waterfest - 3rd October 2026
Saturday 3rd October - Birmingham Waterfest at The Boat Inn, Old Kingsbury Road, Sutton Coldfield, B76 9AE.
Boat races and kayaking from 10 am to 4.20 pm
Book your team and time slot now to secure your place (8 paddlers per team)
Eventbrite: Birmingham Waterfront 2026
FROM BOSNIA HOUSE TO THE UK PARLIAMENT: A SPECIAL VISIT BY YOUNG PEOPLE FROM ZAPORIZHZHIA
The visit of a group of 20 young people from the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia is being organised by the Bosnia and Herzegovina UK Network, in partnership with Birmingham City Council and Zaporizhzhia City Council. Birmingham and Zaporizhzhia are twin cities, and this visit represents another important step in strengthening the links between the two cities and their communities.
On the second day of their stay in the UK, the
young people visited London, where they saw some of the capital’s best-known
landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, as well as several museums. However,
the highlight of the day was their visit to the UK Parliament.
The visit to Parliament was initiated and
organised by Dr Anes Cerić, Honorary Consul of Bosnia and Herzegovina for the
Midlands, in cooperation with Tahir Ali MP, who welcomed the group to
Westminster.
During a guided tour, the young people had the
opportunity to learn about the history of Parliament and gain a better
understanding of how one of the UK’s most important institutions works.
Following the tour, a special meeting was held with Tahir Ali MP, where they
were able to ask questions, share their thoughts and discuss his work as a
Member of Parliament.
Their week in Birmingham had begun the previous
day at Bosnia House, where they took part in workshops and joint activities
with children attending the Ukrainian Supplementary School. They also had the
opportunity to meet parents and families from Birmingham’s Ukrainian community.
In just the first two days, new friendships have
already been formed and many happy memories created. The programme continues at
Bosnia House with further workshops, activities and opportunities for the young
people to spend time together.
The
visit of a group of 20 young people from the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia is
being organised by the Bosnia and Herzegovina UK Network, in partnership with
Birmingham City Council and Zaporizhzhia City Council. Birmingham and
Zaporizhzhia are twin cities, and this visit represents another important step
in strengthening the links between the two cities and their communities.
On the second day of their stay in the UK, the
young people visited London, where they saw some of the capital’s best-known
landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, as well as several museums. However,
the highlight of the day was their visit to the UK Parliament.
The visit to Parliament was initiated and
organised by Dr Anes Cerić, Honorary Consul of Bosnia and Herzegovina for the
Midlands, in cooperation with Tahir Ali MP, who welcomed the group to
Westminster.
During a guided tour, the young people had the
opportunity to learn about the history of Parliament and gain a better
understanding of how one of the UK’s most important institutions works.
Following the tour, a special meeting was held with Tahir Ali MP, where they
were able to ask questions, share their thoughts and discuss his work as a
Member of Parliament.
Their week in Birmingham had begun the previous
day at Bosnia House, where they took part in workshops and joint activities
with children attending the Ukrainian Supplementary School. They also had the
opportunity to meet parents and families from Birmingham’s Ukrainian community.
In just the first two days, new friendships have
already been formed and many happy memories created. The programme continues at
Bosnia House with further workshops, activities and opportunities for the young
people to spend time together.
Sutton Coldfield Networking Event
Networking Event at Sutton Coldfield Rugby Club at 160 Walmley Road, B76 2QA on 30th September 2026 from 10am. Join local community organisations for a morning of meaningful conversations, new connections and exciting new opportunities.
Please RSVP enquiries@signalhayes.co.uk
Resources for Autism - Groups for Young People with Autism based at BAYC, Pershore Road B29 7EL
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Two social groups for young people with autism (different age groups) based on Pershore Road, Birmingham. REGISTER YOU INTEREST HERE - https://tinyurl.com/9kftd5mv and Billie can get in touch regarding the groups.
For further information please do contact billie-marie@resourcesforautism.org.uk
ESOL Course for Afghan women in Birmingham
The course starts on 8th September 2026 at Bosnia House, B11 4EA. For more information contact 07415 778161 or email ebrahim@bosniauknetwork.org
Big Send Adventure Playday at Ackers Adventure - 26th August
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| Big Send Adventure Playday - 26th August 2026 |
Warm Welcome Spaces at Communitea Cafe, Boldmere, Sutton Coldfield
Age Connects West Midlands continues to support the Birmingham Warm Welcome initiative through our drop-in sessions at Communitea Cafe, Boldmere, Sutton Coldfield.
What
is a Warm Welcome Space?
Warm
Welcome Spaces are free, safe and welcoming community spaces that are open to
everyone. They provide an opportunity for people to access information and
support, connect with others, reduce isolation and enjoy a friendly
environment.
Our
Warm Welcome offer includes:
- Information, support and guidance
- A welcoming space to meet and connect with
others
- Free basic tea and coffee
- Access to community activities and services
available at each venue
Age Connects provide sessions at three locations in Birmingham at these times:
Communitea,
Boldmere
- Monday: 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Tuesday: 9:30am – 12:00pm
Hawkesley
Community Centre
- Wednesday: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Moorfield
Hall
- Friday: 10:00am – 12:00pm
These
sessions are available year-round and can be particularly beneficial for
individuals who may be experiencing loneliness, social isolation, financial
pressures, or who simply want a friendly place to spend time within their local
community.
Free
Refreshments
Visitors
attending specifically for the Warm Welcome offer can receive a complimentary
basic tea or coffee.
Sutton Coldfield NNS connecting with Minworth
A mindful Tai Chi session from members of Sutton Coldfield's
Hong Kong community put us all in a relaxed state of mind and body
On Saturday 25th July 2026 the NNS supported the local community in Minworth to organise a fantastic community engagement and networking event.
Over 80 people attended the event including local charity, cultural and community groups, 5 local councillors including Nitish Raut, Mayor of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield and talented musicians offering performances and tuition.
It was a great day of connectivity and diversity. Big thanks to Father Jules for hosting the event at St George the Martyr Church, to all the groups and citizens who helped to organise the event and to Kamleish and colleagues on the SCNNS team for hard work in putting the event on.
As the Mayor said in his speech, "Sutton Coldfield embraces and values the community of Minworth".
Dr Nitish Raut (left of picture), Mayor of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield entertained by the skills of Pritam Singh (right) of our NNS funded asset Drumatised. Pritam's mastery of the Indian tabla drums is incredible.
Connecting with the Fire Service in Sutton Coldfield
Kamleish and Pete from Sutton Coldfield Neighbourhood Network Scheme enjoyed a great day of connectivity at the open day of Sutton Coldfield Fire Station yesterday, promoting the local work of the NNS and our lead organisation Age Connects West Midlands. Our table was right at the entrance of the station so it was a good opportunity to talk to families on the way into this thriving open day event with hundreds of attendees throughout the day.
The event, organised by station commander Paul Staples and his brilliant team featured many stalls and activities around emergency rescue and first aid support, especially popular with families of young children. Everything from cardiac resuscitation to photos with Fireman Sam, we had many useful conversations with parents and carers about the many services we have on offer.
Thank you to Paul and all the professional and volunteer fire, police and ambulance personnel for inviting us to this well organised and well attended event in the centre of the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield.
West Midlands Gambling Harms Clinic
We can help you with your gambling and gain control of your life again.
To access our self-referral service or self-help resources scan the QR code on the flyer of visit:
www.midlandsgamblingclinic.org
Are you affected by someone else's gambling problems?
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| Support from Adfam |
This service is here to help you find ways of coping and dealing with the challenges you face.
Adfam can provide six one-to-one sessions where you can talk to us about any issues that you are experiencing.
Sessions via Zoom video call or over the phone at a time to suit you.
Follow the link below to find out more or speak to the Gambling Harm Clinic adfam.org.uk/MPFTgam
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