In April 2025, I had the opportunity to visit the West Midlands Multibank, a new initiative managed by Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC). It had been open just a month, and I was eager to see how it was taking shape. I was warmly welcomed by Lianne Shakespeare, Head of Children, Young People and […]
Street Support West Midlands is proud to spotlight the urgent call from YMCA Black Country for host families to provide safe accommodation for vulnerable young people. This initiative aims to address a critical shortage in the area, offering a lifeline to individuals aged 18 to 25 who cannot live with their families. Supporting Young People […]
What is the Household Support Fund (HSF)? The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a fantastic initiative aimed at helping people who are struggling with housing-related costs. Whether it’s rent, utility bills, or essential household items, the HSF is here to provide a helping hand. It’s managed by local councils within the West Midlands Combined Authority […]
Are you facing a tough time this Christmas? Walsall is holding a special event called Caring Christmas especially for families and individuals who are struggling financially or feeling alone during the holidays. What is Caring Christmas? Caring Christmas is a warm and welcoming event where you can connect with others, enjoy a delicious free meal, […]
There cannot be many people in the UK who have never seen or heard of the Big Issue. Maybe you have seen one of the thousands of vendors selling the latest issue on high streets up and down the UK; maybe you have purchased one, or have a subscription. Founded in 1991, the Big Issue […]
by Keeley Jones, Deputy CEO/Operations Manager This coming winter, we are hoping to support as many individuals and families in our local communities with essential items. Christmas is the season of goodwill, when we see so much generosity and kindness, and have the pleasure of meeting so many wonderful people, community groups, faith groups and […]
Have you ever heard of loan sharks or illegal money lending? Being a victim of illegal money lending, such as borrowing from loan sharks, can put you at risk of homelessness. When people struggle to repay the high interest rates and fees charged by loan sharks, they may find themselves trapped in a cycle of […]
On 2 May 2024, people across the West Midlands are being invited to vote in the polls to elect A Mayor for the West Midlands Combined Authority A Police and Crime Commissioner for the West Midlands Councillors within local authority areas of, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton. (In Selly Oak and Bournbrook in […]
If you’re below the age of 25 and have a history of being in care, even for a brief period, you’re entitled to specific rights and benefits designed to support you in times of potential homelessness. Am I a care leaver? A care leaver refers to an individual who has experienced life within the care […]
Since its inception in June 2006 at Chawn Hill Church in Stourbridge, the Black Country Foodbank (BCFB) has been steadfast in its commitment as a Christian-based charitable organisation to aiding those in need. Fast forward to the end of 2023, the BCFB has remarkably expanded its reach, boasting a comprehensive network of 26 food banks […]
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