Community Development Team - Community Updates

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Community Development Team - Community Updates

 

 

These updates are collated by the Solihull Community Development Team and shared with you, our partners, within the community, to keep you updated with the different opportunities, funding, and activities that are happening in Solihull.

 

If you have any opportunities/ funding/ activities that you would like to promote,

please complete the Pro Forma, and forward to the Community Development Inbox at cdt@solihull.gov.uk. 

Please note, deadline for article submissions is Thursdays at 12pm

 

The following items in this week’s newsletter are:

Community Updates

  1. Colebridge Trust Activities

  2. Discover the Chamber - Solihull

  3. Lunar New Year at Touchwood

  4. Sensory Sport - North Solihull

  5. Building Stronger Communities – Get involved, Feel connected, make a Difference

  6. Brightside Forest School After School Club

  7. Upcoming Activities at Eastcote Park

  8. Risk Benefit Analysis Workshop (RBA) YO Solihull

  9. Events at YMCA Billy Bears Nursery

  10. The Big Brummie Bhangrathon 2026 – Let’s Dance!

  11. Kings Trust Team Programme – Recruiting

  12. Treasures in the Attic? Free Antique Valuation Event at Blossomfield Rose Care Home

  13. Issues and Options Consultation

Volunteering Opportunities

  1. Volunteer Board Members/Trustees Opportunity at Young Opportunities 

Funding

  1. Grantfinder Funding Search - Multiple Funding Opportunities

  2. North Solihull Funding Information Coffee Morning



Community Updates



1. Colebridge Trust Activities

mens

Men’s Wellbeing Group

A relaxed, friendly group where men can get together, have a brew, and talk about life. There doesn’t have to be anything “wrong”. Just a safe space to check in, listen, or chat – whatever feels.

 

📅Every Wednesday starting 11 February, 3.15 - 4.45pm at the Junction, 100 Chapelhouse Road, Fordbridge, B37 5HA.

 

If you have any questions, email Ruth Chauhan health@colebridge.org or call 07974727223

 

To view the flyer, click here

Colebridge

Community & Business Forum Event - Chelmsley Wood

Local organisations and businesses are invited to attend an upcoming forum to network, share ideas and explore partnership opportunities.

 

📅Tuesday 17 February, 1pm - 2:30pm at The Junction, 100 Chapelhouse Rd, Chelmsley Wood, Birmingham B37 5HA 

 

Have your say on local priorities, raise your organisation's profile and connect with others working in the area.

 

Register here: Community & Business Forum

 

For more information, contact Becci at beccif@colebridge.org or call 0121 448 0720


2. Discover the Chamber - Solihull

Ever wondered what the Solihull Chamber can do for you and your business/organisation? Finding out the answers to the questions you didn’t know to ask! If you’ve never heard of the Chambers, then this event is for you to discover new opportunities for promotion, collaboration and growth.

 

📅17 February, 9.30am – 11.30am at Solihull Riding Club, Four Ashes Rd, Bentley Heath, Dorridge, Solihull B93 8QE.

 

If you have any questions please email r.black@birmingham-chamber.com 

 

To book, visit Discover your Chamber: non member in-person event | Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce


Lunar New Year

3. Lunar New Year at Touchwood

Join Touchwood to welcome the Year of the Horse with a vibrant community celebration! Enjoy Mahjong workshops, face painting and calligraphy, plus the spectacular lion dance parade, all in partnership with the local Hong Konger community. It’s a wonderful chance to experience authentic traditions and share in the joy of this special occasion.

 

📅Saturday 21 February, 11.15am onwards, Touchwood Shopping Centre, Homer Rd, Solihull B91 3GJ

 

For the full line up of the day visit Lunar New Year 2026.... | Things to Do in Solihull | What's New at Touchwood

 

Email louise.woodward@touchwoodsolihull.co.uk if you have any questions about the event. 

 

To view the flyer, click here


Sensory Sport

4. Sensory Sport - North Solihull

New Sensory Sport Sessions Launching in North Solihull

We’re excited to share a fantastic new opportunity for children with complex needs in our community. Sense is launching a launching accessible, inclusive Sensory Sport sessions designed to help young people build confidence, explore movement, and most importantly have fun.

These sessions offer children aged 5 to 11 years the chance to try a range of popular sports, including football, tennis and badminton, delivered in a supportive, person‑centred environment. Activities are adapted to suit each participant, ensuring every child can take part at their own pace while enjoying a positive and engaging experience. The cost is £2 per participant, per session.

 

📅Saturdays starting 21 February, 10.30 - 11.30am at Auckland Hall, 25 Sunbeam Close, Birmingham, B36 9JR

 

For more information or to reserve a place, email matthew.rickard@sense.org.uk  or call 07884 494831. Click here to visit the website.

 

To view the flyer, click here


5. Building Stronger Communities – Get involved, Feel connected, make a Difference

Solihull College is funding and supporting free ongoing activities across North Solihull, providing unemployed residents with opportunities to meet people, get involved in groups, learn new skills and build confidence. Community activities can help you feel valued and supported. 

 

For more info please use this link Building Stronger Communities - Register your interest

 

All courses are FREE for unemployed residents living in North Solihull aged 19+.  

 

Get into Streaming & Broadcasting

This course is a relaxed, beginner-friendly introduction to streaming and broadcasting from home. Free lunch and Bus vouchers provided. 

 

📅Every Monday from 23 February to 23 March, 09:30 to 14:30 at Solihull College – Blossomfield Campus, Blossomfield Rd, Solihull B91 1SB

 

For more info please use this link Introduction to Streaming & Broadcasting

 

Art for Wellbeing

A friendly, creative space for unemployed adults who may be feeling stuck or disconnected. Art for Wellbeing uses simple art making to support mental wellbeing, confidence and a sense of progress, one session at a time. Free lunch provided.

 

📅Every Tuesday from 24 Feb to 24 March, 09:30 to 15:00 at Three Trees Community Centre, Hedingham Grove, Birmingham B37 7TP

 

For more info please use this link Art for wellbeing at Three Trees

 

Get into App Development

Learn how to build an app for individual use or for community groups.

 

📅Every Tuesday from 25 Feb to 25 March, 13:15 to 15:15 at Three Trees Community Centre,

Hedingham Grove, Birmingham B37 7TP

 

For more info please use this link: Get into App Development

 

Get into Esports and Game Design

Free lunch and Bus vouchers provided. Learn about the Esports industry including careers and job roles. You will gain an insight into Esports vs Traditional sports and how they compare in regard to their format and structure. You’ll also look at terms and definitions used in games design. You will generate your own ideas for your own game design and present your game idea to your peers and gain feedback.

 

📅Every Tuesday from 27 Feb to 27 March, 10:15 to 15:15 at Three Trees Community Centre,

Hedingham Grove, Birmingham B37 7TP

 

For more info please use this link Introduction to Esports and Game Design

 

If you have any questions about the above courses please email          Community.Projects@solihull.ac.uk


6. Brightside Forest School After School Club

We're excited to offer Forest school sessions for children aged 7-11 in the local community. These fun, hands-on sessions give children the chance to explore nature, build confidence, and learn new skills in a supportive outdoor environment.

 

📅Mondays starting 23 February, 3.30-4.45 at Ulverley School, Rodney Road, Solihull B92 8RZ

 

Follow: Brightside Forest School and Tuition CIC on facebook for updates regarding forest school events. If you have any questions, email Samhalton112@outlook.com

 

To book follow the link below:

https://bookwhen.com/brightside

 

To view the flyer, click here

forest school

7. Upcoming Activities at Eastcote Park

Invictus

Eastcote Park’s Gentlemen’s Club

This February, join us at our Gentlemen’s Club to celebrate the Six Nations in true rugby spirit. We’ll be marking the tournament with a special screening of Invictus—an unforgettable film about leadership, unity, and the love of the game.

 

📅Wednesday 25 February, 2.30pm to 4pm at Eastcote Park, Knowle Road, Solihull, B92 0JA

 

Booking is essential, please call Ben on 0121 269 1236 to reserve your place. All are welcome — see you there! 

 

To view the flyer, click here

 

open day

Eastcote Retirement Living and Care Home Open Day

Take a tour of the unrivalled on-site facilities including the Piano Bar, Club Room & Restaurant, Private Dining Room, Fitness Studio, Hair & Beauty Salon and Cinema.

  • View the Stunning 2-bedroom show apartment
  • Meet the team
  • Hear about the various daily social events
  • Find out about the Eastcote Park scheduled transport service
  • Meet the professionals for information on care funding, wills, power of attorney and stress-free moving
  • Enjoy complimentary refreshments

📅Friday 6 March, 10am - 12.30pm or 2 - 4.30pm at Eastcote Park, Knowle Road, Solihull, B92 0JA

 

Booking recommended For more details call them on 0121 269 1236 or email eastcote.enquiries@cinnamoncc.com

 

To view the flyer, click here


RBA

8. Risk Benefit Analysis Workshop (RBA) YO Solihull

YO Solihull’s RBA workshop introduces a simple approach to supporting children and young people’s play safely, without limiting freedom or independence. It builds confidence and offers practical tools you can use in everyday practice.

 

📅27 February, 9.30am-12pm at Crabtree Hall, 34 Crabtree Drive, Fordbridge, B37 5BU.

 

To book, visit Risk VS Risk Benefit Assessment Training | YO Solihull  

 

For more information, visit Young Opportunities Solihull or email info@yosolihull.com

 

To view the flyer, click here


9. Events at YMCA Billy Bears Nursery

All the below sessions are taking place at Billy Bears Nursery, Brownley Road, Shirley, B90 4QP. If you have any queries or to book onto any of these please email: chrissi.davidson@ymcaheartofengland.org.uk Text 07377033088 or visit their Facebook

yoga

Ladies Yoga Sessions

A friendly community Yoga session led by an accredited Yoga teacher. Ideal for beginners and intermediates.

 

📅Wednesdays until 25 March, 11:15am -12:15 pm.

February 4 – 25 March (term-time)

 

Please bring your mat. Other Yoga accessories will be provided (stretch bands, blocks etc).

 

Only £3 per session when booking 4 sessions or more.

 

To view the flyer, click here

Story Sacks

FREE  5 week ‘Story Sacks’ course for Parent/Carers of 0-5s.

Free 5-week course helping Parent/Carers of 0-5s how to use stories, craft and play to develop early skills like communication, reading, writing and basic maths in their children.

While the learning is aimed at adults, 0–5s are welcome to play alongside in the room. It’s a relaxed, friendly environment. Delivered by: Solihull College in partnership with YMCA Heart of England

 

📅Tuesdays 24 February - 24 March, 12:30pm – 2:30pm (5-week course) 

 

To view the flyer, click here

ESOL

Free ESOL Course

Invitation to attend an application and assessment morning for a FREE ESOL (English as a Second or Other language) course. This is for a certified course delivered by Solihull College in partnership with YMCA Billy Bears Nursery (Community Connections project).

 

📅Thursday 26 February, 9:30am – 11:30am

 

To view the flyer, click here


Bhangra

10. The Big Brummie Bhangrathon 2026 – Let’s Dance!

As part of Angela Rippon’s national campaign to get the nation dancing, BBX Fitness will be delivering a FREE ‘mega’ class. 

 

📅Sunday 8 March, 10am -11.30am at The Alexander Stadium, Hospitality Suite, Walsall Rd, Perry Barr, Birmingham B42 2LR

 

The class starts at 10.30 sharp, so please arrive early and:

  • Please come dressed in gymwear and trainers!
  • Please bring a small towel and a bottle of water with you!
  • Wear bright colours!

To book click hereFor more info, visit Home - BBX Fitness or email information@bbx.fitness

 

To view the flyer, click here


11. Kings Trust Team Programme – Recruiting

Aged 16 to 25 and unemployed? Join Team, the King's Trusts 12-week personal development programme, for the chance to gain new skills, earn new qualifications and meet like-minded people.

 

📅The next course starts on Monday 9 March

 

When you join the Team programme, you’ll be challenged to:

  • Take on your own group community project, making a positive difference to the place where you live
  • Have the chance to take part in a fun-filled residential trip
  • Get two weeks’ work experience in something you’re interested in
  • Develop your CV writing, interviewing, and employability skills
  • Achieve a minimum of 2 qualifications

As part of the course, you'll also spend time developing teamwork, communication, and leadership skills to ensure your confidence is sky-high when taking the next step.

The programme is completely free and won’t affect your Jobseeker’s Allowance.

 

To find out more please contact Daniel Elkin via: delkin@warwickshire.ac.uk or 07874796093


12. Treasures in the Attic? Free Antique Valuation Event at Blossomfield Rose Care Home

Do you have a hidden gem tucked away in a drawer or a family heirloom you’ve always been curious about? Blossomfield Rose Care Home is delighted to invite the local community to a special Antiques Valuation Event.

 

📅Wednesday 19 March, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at Blossomfield Rose Care Home, Blossomfield Road, Solihull, B91 1FN

 

Blossomfield Rose are thrilled to welcome guest expert Nick Davies, a familiar face from BBC’s Flog It!. Nick is a renowned specialist in silver and jewellery, but he is happy to cast his expert eye over a variety of smaller items to help you discover their history and true value.

  • What to bring: Smaller portable items such as jewellery, watches, or silver trinkets.

This is a wonderful opportunity to meet a top industry expert, enjoy the hospitality of their award-winning care home, and perhaps find out that your "precious" items are worth more than you thought!

 

Reserve Your Spot To help us manage numbers, please let them know you’re coming by calling 0121 796 6490 or emailing zoe.doherty@macccare.com


13. Issues and Options Consultation

The Council is preparing a new Local Plan following major national planning reforms and the withdrawal of the previous draft plan. The Plan will guide where new homes, jobs and supporting infrastructure should be located across the borough up to 2043.

 

The Council is seeking views on a range of issues that the new Local Plan should address. This includes where to locate new development, how to ensure the right infrastructure is in the right place and creating sustainable places with good design.

 

The consultation opened on Friday 30 January 2026 and will close at 11:59pm on Monday 16 March 2026.

 

Comments can be submitted via our dedicated on-line portal, which can be accessed from the Emerging Local Plan webpage

 

Please note, respondents do not need to comment on every question, and can respond to as many or as few as they wish. All comments will be reviewed and will help shape the next version of the Local Plan.

 

Drop-in events are being held across the borough so that people can discuss the consultation in person with council officers. The Emerging Local Plan webpage will provide up to date information about these events. Email policyandspatialplanning@solihull.gov.ukif you have any questions.



Volunteering Opportunities



1. Volunteer Board Members/Trustees Opportunity at Young Opportunities 

YO Solihull is seeking new volunteer Board Members to support and help shape their work as a membership organisation supporting groups and organisations that work directly with children, young people and families across Solihull.

 

You need to be from an organisation working within the VCFSE sector within Solihull. They are particularly keen to have new board members from under‑represented groups, faith groups, and small organisations, who can also bring local insight, specific skills, sector knowledge and strong connections to their board.

 

This is a voluntary role, well‑suited to someone looking to contribute at a strategic level or gain board experience. While the role itself is unpaid, there will be paid opportunities for training and for specific pieces of agreed work, subject to agreement with the Chair. Board members provide strategic oversight, support and constructive challenge, and act as ambassadors for YO Solihull’s values and mission.

 

Induction and ongoing support will be provided.

 

To find out more about YO Solihull, click here For an informal conversation or to express interest, please contact: chair@yosolihull.com



Funding Opportunities



1. Grantfinder Funding Search - Multiple Funding Opportunities

The team have access to Grantfinder, a funding database, where there is a wide range of funding opportunities that cover a variety of topics. In each newsletter, one of the team will be pulling together a list of funding available. 

 

Please see link to view the various funding opportunities at present: February 2026


cava

2. North Solihull Funding Information Coffee Morning

You are Invited to join us at the family Hub for coffee and biscuits and gain information on possible funding opportunities for the North Solihull area.

 

📅Wednesday 25 February, 10am to 12 noon at Elmwood Place Family Hub, 37 Burton Way, Smiths Wood, Solihull, B36 OUG

 

Sign up for free by emailing david.simkins@wcava.org.uk  or just drop in on the day.

 

To view the flyer, click here



My Solihull Map

With the My Solihull Map, you can find places to go, things to do and people to talk or listen to in your neighbourhood.

 

Please use this link to access the map: My Solihull Map



If you have any opportunities/ funding/ activities that you would like to promote, complete the  Pro Forma, and forward to the Community Development Inbox at cdt@solihull.gov.uk. 

Please note, deadline for article submissions is Thursdays at 12pm