Welcome Change CIC opens community hub in Lea Village

6th July 2021

Councillor Marje Bridle has officially opened a new Community Hub in Lea Village in east Birmingham. The hub is run by BSSEC member, Welcome Change CIC. It has been supported by a grant of £500k from the National Lottery Community Fund, securing its future for the next five years. The new initiative will play a vital part in helping to tackle health inequalities and reduce isolation in one of the most deprived areas in the city.

Speaking at the opening event, Councillor Bridle said: “What a fantastic organisation we’ve got here in Welcome Change. It has made an impact in virtually every part of the area I represent as a local Councillor. What’s so special is that it’s full of ideas for helping the local community – and it gets things done. Now, in addition to its Community Centre in Shard End, Community Hub at Glebe Farm Library and Community Garden in Tile Cross, there is this Community Hub, which is already buzzing. It’s just what’s needed, offering help for people who want to get a job or need advice on a range of issues, a food pantry service, a place for people to get together and loads more. Thank you to the fantastic team.”

Sally Edwards, Welcome Change CIC’s chief executive, says: “We are extremely fortunate in having such engaged and supportive local Councillors in our area and look forward to making the most of the opportunities provided by this being designated a Pioneer Ward. We are also delighted to have received funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, which will enable us to support the local community in the long-term. We hope to make a real impact, building on the work of Birmingham Settlement before us.”

In addition to attending clubs, classes and events, local people are welcome to drop in for information and assistance with things like benefits claims, budgeting, responding to official letters or using a computer to access information and services. The Hub also currently hosts a twice weekly food club and an after-school club.

→ A timetable for activities at the Lea Village Community Hub can be found on its Facebook page