Topic: Announcement

Local businesses, Community leaders and community group members in Smethwick are being invited to help shape how £20 million in government funding is invested in the town over the next 10 years.

Smethwick is one of 75 towns across the UK set to benefit from long-term investment through the Plan for Neighbourhoods programme. This funding aims to support local priorities, deliver meaningful change and put decision-making in the hands of communities.

Join a community workshop near you

To ensure local voices are at the heart of the programme, a series of eight community workshops will take place across Smethwick between Monday 28 July and Friday 22 August 2025.

Each session will provide an opportunity to:

• Meet members of the Smethwick Partnership Board
• Discuss the challenges and opportunities in your community
• Share ideas and suggest potential projects
• Help shape how the funding can be used to make the biggest impact

Whether you’re already involved in local initiatives or simply want to see change in your neighbourhood, your input is essential.

Tickets to the workshops are free but limited, and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Residents, community groups and businesses in Smethwick are being encouraged to take part in an important new survey to help shape the town’s future.

Smethwick has been named one of 75 towns across the UK set to receive up to £20 million in Government investment over the next decade through the Plan for Neighbourhoods programme. This long-term funding aims to support local communities in creating lasting, meaningful change.

Share your views on the issues that matter

The Smethwick Partnership Board, which is overseeing the delivery of the Plan for Neighbourhoods locally, has launched a short online survey to gather views on what matters most to people living and working in the town.

The survey focuses on eight key themes:

• Regeneration, high streets and heritage
• Housing
• Work, productivity and skills
• Community cohesion
• Health and wellbeing
• Transport
• Safety and security
• Education and opportunity

Your feedback will help identify the town’s top priorities and influence how funding is allocated over the coming years.

Have your say today

Whether you’re a resident, business owner or community organisation, your views are vital. The survey takes just a few minutes to complete and your input will help shape Smethwick for future generations.

The deadline to respond is Friday 22 August 2025.

Sandwell Council has given the green light to a planning application for 34 new homes in Wednesbury, marking another step forward in the town’s regeneration efforts. The new development, led by Keon Homes, will be located off Friar Park Road, adjacent to the site earmarked for Wednesbury’s upcoming urban village.

The proposed homes will include a mix of two- and three-bedroom houses and will be built on a brownfield site. The developer says the homes will be high quality and designed to complement the existing area, with appropriate parking provided for residents and visitors.

The plans are part of a much larger regeneration project for the town. Sandwell Council received £20 million in government Levelling Up funding for the area, with over £10 million allocated to prepare nearly 67 acres of land for development near the M6.

The wider urban village project includes up to 630 new homes and improvements to the nearby Millennium Community Centre, which will include a new café and events space for up to 150 people.

For Sandwell’s business community, this means increased demand for construction services, supply chains and local retail and hospitality. The urban village vision is set to attract new residents and create opportunities for businesses to thrive.

Project timeline extended

The land was originally expected to be ready for developers by September 2026, but this has now been delayed to December 2027. As a result, further delays to the completion of the urban village homes, originally projected for 2031, are now likely. Elsewhere in the area, a separate plan by developer Persimmon proposes 105 new homes on land near High Point Academy.

These projects are part of ongoing investment to improve housing, infrastructure and community facilities in Wednesbury and across Sandwell.

The information for this article came from the business desk, read it here.

The SHAPE Programme, a pioneering child’s voice initiative by Sandwell Council, has been championing youth empowerment and community development since 2014.

With a mission rooted in five core outcomes: Staying Safe, Being Healthy, Enjoying & Achieving, making a Positive Contribution and Economic Wellbeing, SHAPE has become a vital platform for children and young people to influence services and thrive in a supportive environment.

Through innovative events, strategic partnerships, and youth-led consultations, the SHAPE Programme has engaged over 20,000 children and young people across Sandwell and neighbouring areas.

Challenge

Sandwell Council recognised a need to give young people a stronger voice in shaping the services and support systems designed for them. There was also a broader ambition: to develop future leaders, reduce social exclusion and ensure all young people, regardless of background, could contribute positively to their communities.

To meet these goals, the SHAPE Programme was established to offer meaningful engagement, provide platforms for talent and expression, and deliver vital support around safety, wellbeing and aspirations.

Solution

The SHAPE Programme has delivered a rich and varied youth offer through multiple initiatives:

• SHAPE Your Talent – a creative stage for young performers across music, dance and entertainment.
• SHAPE Youth Forum – a bi-weekly platform for young people (ages 11–21) to influence decision-making.
• SHAPE Summer Youth Festival – a free, family-focused festival drawing 6,000–8,000 attendees annually, with more than 70 organisations promoting services and activities.
• UK Youth Parliament Support – facilitating the election and mentorship of Sandwell’s MYPs to ensure national representation.
• Anti-Bullying Roadshows – a proactive campaign in partnership with West Midlands Police, delivered across schools to address bullying.
• Annual SHAPE Survey – with over 2,700 responses in 2024, this consultation tool helps shape council policy and services based on real youth feedback.

The programme is supported by a board of partners including the NHS, West Midlands Fire Service, schools, colleges and community.

SHAPE Youth Summer Festival

An outstanding example of SHAPE’s inclusive impact is the Youth Summer Fest, held annually at Sandwell Valley Country Park. Created in response to young people’s call for positive summer activities, the event offers sports, arts, performances and a vibrant 5k Colour Run.

The festival draws thousands from across the West Midlands which strengthens community ties, promotes healthy lifestyles and showcases opportunities for youth engagement. In 2025, the festival expects up to 8,000 attendees.

How you can support SHAPE

Sponsoring the SHAPE Programme is more than a marketing opportunity it’s a chance to invest in the future of your community. Sponsors benefit from:

• Brand exposure across social media, press, and public materials
• Engagement with local families and service providers
• Contribution to a nationally recognised programme

Available sponsorship tiers include Gold (£1,000), Silver (£500), and Bronze (£100), each offering a range of promotional benefits, from social media campaigns to festival banners and inclusion in press materials.

If your interested in sponsoring you can contact the SHAPE team at shape_events@sandwell.gov.uk. SHAPE is more than just a programme; it’s a movement that puts children and young people at the heart of local life.

Culture has the power to transform communities improve wellbeing, build skills and create vibrant places to live and work.

The Sandwell Cultural Compact is now inviting expressions of interest for new board members to help shape the future of arts, culture and creativity across the borough.

About the Sandwell Cultural Compact

The Compact is a cross-sector partnership working to ensure that everyone in Sandwell can access and benefit from cultural opportunities. Its focus includes embedding creativity into everyday life, connecting communities and securing investment in the borough’s cultural infrastructure.

The partnership supports creative organisations and individuals to thrive, while promoting collaboration across sectors such as health, education, business and regeneration.

Who can apply

The Compact is seeking individuals who bring experience, networks or lived insight that can support its work at a strategic level. Board members may come from:

• Arts, culture and heritage organisations
• Health, education, housing or other public services
• Local businesses or the visitor economy
• Voluntary, community and faith groups
• Freelance creative practice or micro arts organisations

Applicants should have a connection to Sandwell, through work, residence or community involvement and a commitment to growing cultural and creative opportunities in the borough.

The role

This is a voluntary role. Board members are expected to attend quarterly meetings and may also be invited to contribute to specific working groups or represent the Compact at local or regional events. The initial term is one year, with a review of the Compact’s structure due between April and June 2026.

Freelancers and micro businesses without core funding may be eligible for a bursary to support participation.

How to apply

Expressions of interest should include:

• Contact details and current role
• Connection to Sandwell
• Relevant experience and networks
• Motivation for applying
• How your background would contribute to the board’s understanding of Sandwell’s communities

Deadline: 6 June 2025

The Black Country Chamber of Commerce is giving local businesses the opportunity to take part in its Quarter Two Economic Survey.

This is a chance to share how current economic conditions are affecting your organisation: including sales performance, recruitment, investment plans and overall business confidence. The information collected helps build a clear, data-driven picture of the struggles businesses are facing.

Why your voice matters

Survey results are closely monitored by HM Treasury and the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee, ensuring that the real challenges and opportunities facing Black Country businesses are heard at the highest levels.

Whether your business is large or small, every response counts, every response helps ensure decision-makers understand what businesses really need.

Have your say.

Results and business insights

Following the survey period, results will be revealed on Thursday 3 Julyat a dedicated event that will also include a focused discussion on this quarter’s key theme: Brand Protection and Reputation Management.

Attendees will gain early access to the latest data on business sentiment across the Black Country and hear from a panel of expert speakers exploring how businesses can protect and strengthen their brand in today’s fast-moving and competitive environment.

Register your place here.

Sandwell celebrates a regional milestone with the opening of three new indoor padel courts at Tipton Sports Academy. This £155,000 investment brings padel, the world’s fastest-growing sport, to the Black Country for the first time.

The all-weather facility, open year-round, enhances Sandwell’s leisure offerings and creates new opportunities for local businesses. This is the latest in a series of developments designed to strengthen Sandwell’s leisure offer, support healthier lifestyles, and open new commercial opportunities for local businesses.

The courts are based at the Wednesbury Oak Road site, managed by Sandwell Leisure Trust (SLT) on behalf of Sandwell Council. To celebrate the launch, Council Chief Executive Shokat Lal and SLT CEO Mark Braithwaite joined GB padel players Tia Norton and George Weller to officially open the new facility.

A win for business and community

This investment isn’t just about sport it brings with it a lot of benefits for businesses too, from drawing visitors and boosting local spending to fostering partnerships with schools, businesses and fitness operators.

Shokat Lal, chief executive of Sandwell Council, said:
“This is another first for the borough and I am thrilled we are bringing padel, the fastest growing participation sport in the world, right here to Tipton with our partners at Sandwell Leisure Trust. We continue to innovate and capitalise on new opportunities to make Sandwell a thriving and exciting borough in which to live, work and enjoy leisure time.”

Mark Braithwaite, chief executive at Sandwell Leisure Trust, added:
“I am delighted to be bringing these fantastic indoor padel courts to Tipton Sports Academy as we continue to look for new ways to engage more people in physical activity and enjoy healthy lives. Playing padel is an ideal way to socialise with family, friends, or other enthusiasts for a fun game because it’s so easy to play and pick up for all ages, abilities and fitness levels.”

This facility great example of how investment in Sandwell continues to deliver on both social and economic value.

The information for this article came from the express and star, read it here.

Looking after your mental health is just as important as your physical health and if you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, stress or other challenges, free and confidential support is available locally through NHS Talking Therapies Sandwell.

Whether you’re going through a tough time or simply want to feel better day to day, this service is open to anyone aged 16+ who is registered with a Sandwell GP.

Flexible support

NHS Talking Therapies offers professional mental health support in the way that works best for you: by phone, video, in person or even via email. The team is friendly and committed to helping you find the right approach for your needs.

Therapies include:

• Guided self-help for common issues like anxiety and low mood
• CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) – also available in digital formats
• Counselling for depression and trauma-focused therapies like EMDR
• Interpersonal Psychotherapy and couples therapy
• Plus online tools for flexible access to support any time

Employment support

If you’re already using Talking Therapies, you may also be eligible for their specialist employment support service, it’s ideal if you’re looking to find a job, stay in work or return after a break. This one-to-one support includes help with:

• Job hunting, CVs, interviews and applications
• Managing mental health at work and workplace adjustments
• Navigating job transitions and occupational health referrals

How to get started

You can refer yourself directly theres no need to go through your GP and the process is quick and easy.

1. Reach out by phone or online to request an initial call
2. Get assessed to find the best support for your needs
3. Begin therapy and start feeling the difference

We’re proud to announce that our social value officers, Karen Richards and Michael Wragg, have been shortlisted for the prestigious UK National GO Awards 2025, recognising their outstanding work in embedding social value across the borough.

They have been named a finalist in the Social Value Award – Government and Health category, with the winners to be announced at a ceremony on 21 May 2025 at the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool.

A commitment to social value

Sandwell has a long history of championing social value. Since 2006, social value has been a part of the council’s planning and procurement processes, from supporting local employment through major developments to making sure council contracts deliver benefits for residents.

This commitment has grown over the years into a strategy that puts community outcomes at the centre of all work. Whether it’s ensuring new developments offer training and job opportunities or working with schools and community groups, Sandwell has consistently led the way.

The Four Pillars of Social Value

Karen and Michael have played a central role in evolving Sandwell’s social value approach. Working as part of our Business Growth Team, they helped develop the Council’s refreshed social value policy, which was endorsed in early 2024. This policy introduced the Four Pillars of Social Value, setting a clear framework for what social value means to Sandwell:

• Employment and skills
• Local economic benefit
• Community engagement
• Environmental responsibility

These pillars are now embedded in all major procurement, planning and regeneration activities, helping ensure a consistent and measurable approach.

Delivering Real Results

One of the best examples of this work in action is the partnership with Morgan Sindall on the West Bromwich Town Hall & Library project. To date, this project alone has generated over £5.5 million in social value. It has delivered:

• 19 work experience placements
• 11 new job starts
• 4 apprenticeships
• £4,125 raised for mental health charities
• Volunteering, school engagement and support for local causes

This is just one of many examples of how our Business Growth Team is delivering tangible benefits for Sandwell residents through meaningful partnerships.

Supporting Sandwell’s Business Community

Their  work doesn’t stop at large scale developments. Karen and Michael also play a vital role in supporting local SMEs through events like Meet the Buyer, offering bid-writing workshops and helping businesses understand and deliver social value in their own operations.

Their nomination for this national award is a reflection of their hard work and dedication to social value.

On Wednesday 26 March we hosted another highly successful Meet the Buyer event, bringing together local suppliers, SMEs and key Contractor Partners from the Constructing West Midlands (CWM) Framework.

With over 160 attendees, the event provided businesses across Sandwell and the Black Country with an exclusive opportunity to learn about upcoming procurement opportunities, meet industry decision-makers and gain valuable insights into securing contracts and gaining access to the supply chain of Prime Contractors working within the region.

A day of insight and networking

The event opened with a welcome address from Councillor Sukhbir Singh Gill, Cabinet Member for Business & Skills, highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses and fostering strong supply chain relationships. Attendees then heard from representatives of the CWM Framework, who firstly explained how the framework operates and then the Frameworks Contractor Partners each outlined opportunities for suppliers to get involved.

Throughout the morning, key Contractor Partners from CWM, including Morgan Sindall, Seddon, Willmott Dixon, Speller Metcalfe, Galliford Try and Interclass delivered presentations on their upcoming projects and procurement processes and explained how to join their supply chains. Sandwell Council’s procurement team also provided essential guidance on finding and bidding for public sector contracts.

Following an insightful morning of presentations, businesses had the chance to participate in one-on-one meetings with buyers and contractors in the afternoon, gaining direct access to decision makers and exploring potential collaborations.

Opportunities for local businesses

The event was designed to help local businesses understand how to navigate procurement processes, access opportunities and incorporate social value into their bids. With major construction and regeneration projects planned across the region, it was a vital opportunity for SMEs to connect, collaborate and grow.

Reflecting on the event, Dave Daniels from MsTita Coffee said:
“Today’s event has been fantastic. I truly encourage small, medium and large businesses to come, engage, and take part in these events. They offer a lot of opportunity.”

Supporting Sandwell

The Meet the Buyer event is just one of the many ways we support local businesses and economic growth. By connecting suppliers with contractors and providing access to key decision makers, the event reinforces Sandwell Council’s commitment to supporting Sandwell businesses to thrive.

Missed the event? download the presentation slides here.

We’re excited to share that the restoration of West Bromwich Town Hall and Library has won the 2024 West Midlands Conservation Award

This award was presented by the Victorian Society’s Birmingham & West Midlands Group. Sponsored by Hortons’ Estate Limited, the award recognises outstanding conservation work on Victorian-era buildings (1837–1914), celebrating efforts to preserve local heritage.

A landmark restored

West Bromwich’s Grade II-listed town hall and central library have long been at the heart of the community. Over the years, both buildings faced wear and tear, making this restoration project a vital investment in the town’s heritage.

With funding secured by Sandwell Council through the Towns Fund, the restoration ensures these important buildings continue to serve residents for generations to come.

The restoration process

The project involved specialist heritage restoration techniques, including:

• restoring the intricate stained-glass windows, some measuring up to 3 metres high
• repairing the terracotta colonnade on the town hall tower
• rebuilding sections of the roof with carefully sourced slate and leadwork
• recreating the historic stone carvings on the town hall entrance
• refurbishing the Victorian organ, originally installed in 1878
• enhancing accessibility with a new High Street entrance

The project balanced authenticity with modern preservation techniques, ensuring the buildings remain structurally sound while maintaining their original character.

Investing in local skills

A key highlight of this restoration was its investment in local businesses:

• 50% of project funds were spent within 20 miles of West Bromwich
• 135 skilled tradespeople were involved
• 18 work experience students and seven apprentices gained hands-on heritage restoration training

The work was delivered by Morgan Sindall Construction, NRA Roofing & Flooring and Henley Restoration & Remedials, with specialist conservation expertise guiding the process.

councillor Peter Hughes, Sandwell Council’s Cabinet member for regeneration and infrastructure, said:

“This award is a fantastic recognition of the incredible work that’s gone into restoring West Bromwich Town Hall. Thanks to this project, we’ve preserved an important piece of our town’s history while making it accessible for future generations.”

A bright future for West Bromwich

The successful restoration of the town hall and library is just one part of West Bromwich’s wider regeneration efforts. With continued investment in local infrastructure and businesses, the town’s future looks bright.

At Sandwell Business Growth, we’re always keen to celebrate projects that enhance the local economy and community.

The information for this article came from the Express and star and the Victorian Society.

Sandwell Council has granted planning approval for a significant redevelopment project in Tipton town centre, paving the way for 55 new homes.

The project will span the east and west sides of Union Street, transforming sites currently occupied by retail and residential units, along with two car parks.

Supported by £20 million from the government’s Levelling Up Fund, alongside matching funding from Sandwell Council, the scheme aims to replace 15 outdated flats and other derelict structures with new socially rented apartment blocks. This initiative will provide high-quality affordable housing while rejuvenating the area.

A report presented to Sandwell Council’s planning committee on 23 October stated, “The applicant proposes an appropriate reuse of land which would bring about great benefit by regenerating a part of Tipton town centre site with much-needed affordable housing.”

The planning committee has approved the scheme with conditions to ensure that any potential impact on local amenities is mitigated.

The information used for this article came from insider media – read here.

We are excited to share the launch of The Green Economy Series, a fully funded programme created by Business Growth West Midlands to help businesses in the Midlands unlock opportunities within the green economy.

Running from December 2024 to February 2025, this series offers local businesses the chance to explore sustainable business practices, connect with like-minded professionals, and gain insights into how they can use the green economy to drive growth.

What is the Green Economy Series?

The Green Economy Series is a structured programme designed to highlight economic, social and environmental opportunities in the green economy. Delivered through half-day workshops (10 am–1 pm) at Tyseley Energy Park, East Birmingham, the series combines expert-led discussions, hands-on learning and networking.

You will also benefit from insights shared by John Cooke, Entrepreneur in Residence, who has successfully supported numerous businesses with growth and development strategies.

Programme highlights

Friday 13 December: The Green Economy – Introduction and (TEP) Tour: Gain an overview of the green economy and tour the cutting-edge TEP facility. Learn about emerging technologies and discover regional funding opportunities presented by Will Broad, Business Growth Lead (Fast Followers Programme), Birmingham City Council.

Friday 17 January: The Green Economy – Social and Environmental Impact:
Participate in a panel discussion led by Vicky Ayton, BizED Projects CIC, exploring how businesses can positively contribute to society and the environment.

Friday 31 January: The Green Economy – Networking for Success:
Learn effective networking strategies from Sue Tonks, ClimateTech entrepreneur, and connect with others interested in sustainability and the green economy.

Friday 7 February: The Green Economy – Business Strategy and Growth:
Discover sustainable growth strategies with actionable insights from John Cooke, focusing on how to expand your business within the green sector.

Why Join the Green Economy Series?

This programme, delivered in partnership with the University of Birmingham, West Midlands Combined Authority, Tyseley Energy Park and iSE, offers:

• Expert-led insights through workshops and panels with experienced leaders sharing strategies for sustainable growth
• Valuable networking opportunities to build connections with industry experts and fellow business leaders
• Sustainability guidance with access to resources that can help you integrate greener practices into your business
• Exclusive one-to-one consultations with John Cooke, tailored to your business needs (limited availability)

Registration is open, and places are filling quickly.

In partnership with the Sandwell Business Ambassadors, we recently hosted the Venturefest Mobile Hub Sandwell event. It was a highly successful morning focused on empowering established companies to embrace innovation. 

Taking place at the Sandwell Start-Up Hub, the event brought together a wide range of businesses, local partners and innovation experts to share strategies and insights for fostering growth in established organisations. 

This engaging session was packed with dynamic discussions, hands-on workshops, and opportunities for networking, all designed to equip Sandwell businesses with the tools they need to thrive. 

Innovating for Success 

The event was opened by Councillor Sukhbir Singh Gill – Cabinet Member for Business and Skills, Alan Taylor Chair of the Sandwell Business Ambassador and Simon Spink of Venturefest. 

Attendees then received a ‘Fireside Chat’ with Phil Calcutt (A&M EDM Limited) and Nicola Deards (Midlands Aerospace Alliance), showcasing how established companies can navigate the challenges of innovation while leveraging industry partnerships. 

This was followed by a number of presentations led by Ben Sharpe from the Sandwell Business Growth team. 

Lucy Cross from Made Smarter presented on how the programme can support connecting ‘makers’ to digital tools that they can utilise to transform the way they work.  

Nicola Deards from Midlands Aerospace Alliance then presented on the opportunities available to unlock innovation potential in SMEs and to diversify customer base through the Supply Chain Transition Programme. 

Another key highlight was the Innovation Canvas Workshop, delivered by Rachel Cheetham of Innovate UK. This interactive session gave businesses the opportunity to learn how to use the Innovation Canvas to create value from innovation and identify the changes needed to make ideas succeed. 

The event was concluded with refreshments and an invaluable networking session enabling attendees to connect with potential collaborators, support organisations and like-minded entrepreneurs. 

Support for Sandwell Businesses 

Gareth Owens, Team Leader of the Business Growth Team at Sandwell Council, said “We were very pleased to demonstrate this morning all of the business support around innovation that is available for our Sandwell businesses. By taking up different opportunities, there is support available that can support growth and success.” 

Get Involved 

Businesses interested in innovation and growth can access tailored support through the following key resources: 

• Made Smarter Program: Technology solutions for optimizing processes. 

• Midlands Aerospace Alliance: Sector-specific support for aerospace businesses. 

• Innovate UK Business Growth: Funding and advisory services for innovation projects. 

For more information or to be referred to support, contact business_growth@sandwell.gov.uk 

On Wednesday 6 November we hosted another successful ‘Meet the Buyer’ networking event.

The event featured insightful presentations from contractors, who shared details on what they do, what they prioritise in their supply chain and guidance on how businesses can secure a spot in their supply chain. In addition to these practical insights, the session highlighted the importance of social value and went over some of the support we offer.

Attendees enjoyed a complimentary breakfast before the presentations, followed by an open networking session where they could connect directly with contractors and other industry professionals. Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, with many affirming the event’s value and networking benefits

“Very valuable”

Daniel Murray from Spaces4Less said “Today I found the event to be very valuable as it gave us awareness and information on how we can win tenders and contracts, the event was also useful as we got the chance to network with other construction companies and large contractors such as Vinci.

Dont miss out

We host multiple ‘Meet the Buyer’ events throughout the year, check our events page regularly to stay informed about upcoming events.

Below is a pdf download link to all the presentations:

We have partnered with trade experts Falsum to help Sandwell-based businesses break into international markets with the “Trading in New Markets” project.

To empower Sandwell-based businesses’ international trade, Sandwell Business Growth has partnered with Falsum, renowned experts in global trade and customs. Together, we’ve launched the “Trading in New Markets” project, an initiative that supports local businesses looking to enter or expand in overseas markets. With this partnership, businesses in Sandwell have the unique opportunity to access tailored advice, practical support and hands-on workshops.

The “Trading in New Markets” project spans two financial years (2023-2025) and is designed to provide strategic, one-on-one audit and evaluation support. This includes guidance on compliance, export readiness and custom procedures. As well as the expertise needed to streamline import operations. Through this collaboration, businesses will receive the essential tools and resources to thrive globally.

The project includes a series of targeted workshops to guide businesses through every stage of international trade. Each workshop is designed to address a specific aspect of global trade, from understanding compliance and customs procedures to import/export operations. You can choose to attend all of the workshops or just one, depending on your business needs

Upcoming workshops

• Customs Compliance & Audit for UK Importers: Friday 22 November 2024 – dive into post-Brexit customs regulations and compliance practices. This workshop covers practical exercises to help importers stay compliant under the latest UK customs requirements.
• Understanding Rules of Origin & Preference: Friday 29 November 2024 – gain an understanding of the rules of origin and preference in trade agreements. Learn how to leverage these rules to reduce costs and maintain compliance when importing and exporting.
• Beginner’s Guide to Importing and Exporting: Friday, 19 December 2024 – perfect for newcomers to global trade, this session will cover foundational concepts of importing and exporting, providing participants with the tools to start their journey with confidence.
• Improving Your Import, Export & Customs Procedures: Friday 16 January 2025 – this workshop focuses on optimising customs processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Open Consulting Session with Falsum: Friday 7 March 2025 – this open day offers attendees the opportunity to consult one-on-one with Falsum experts on any international trade questions or challenges, providing tailored advice for unique business needs.
• Tariff & Customs Classification Workshop: Friday 14 March 2025 – learn the essentials of tariff and customs classification to ensure compliance and accuracy.

For businesses looking to take advantage of these opportunities, apply today to secure your place.

The Better Mental Health programme in Sandwell is turning its attention to an often-overlooked issue: men’s mental health. Over the next 12 months, the initiative aims to spark discussions, raise awareness and promote the support available for men’s mental health across the community.

Understanding mental health needs

Two surveys have been launched to gather valuable insights from both individuals and organisations in Sandwell. These surveys are crucial in helping to understand the specific mental health needs of men in the area and how best to support them.

• Individual survey: This survey is open to anyone living or working in Sandwell. While the focus is on men, everyone is encouraged to participate and share their views. Partners, friends, and family members are also welcome to contribute, offering insights into the support they believe would benefit the men in their lives.
• Organisation survey: This survey is designed for businesses, community organisations, and other groups in Sandwell that provide support or services to men. The goal is to understand the current provision and gather ideas for improving mental health support within the community.

Why your feedback matters

Men in Sandwell are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, and this has significant consequences, with men making up 79% of deaths by suicide in the area. By participating in these surveys, you can help shape the future of mental health services in Sandwell, ensuring that men have access to the support they need when they need it most.

Your input will directly contribute to creating a better mental health environment for men, helping them to “feel good and function well” throughout their lives.

For more information and support on mental health, visit our Wellbeing page.

We’re thrilled to announce that Business Growth West Midlands is celebrating its first anniversary, marking a year of significant progress in supporting and nurturing businesses across the West Midlands. To celebrate this milestone, an event will be held on Tuesday 1 October 2024, at Millennium Point in Birmingham.

This celebration will not only reflect on the achievements of the past year but also offer a forward-looking perspective on the opportunities available for businesses in the West Midlands.

About Business Growth West Midlands

Business Growth West Midlands was established with the mission to empower local businesses by providing them with the tools, resources and the support needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Over the past year, they have successfully connected many businesses with essential services. This ranges from funding opportunities to expert advice on digital marketing, sales strategies and more. Their commitment to fostering economic growth in the West Midlands has made them a cornerstone of the local business community.

Event highlights

The first anniversary event promises to be an unmissable opportunity for local businesses to connect, learn, and grow. Here’s what you can expect:

• Networking breakfast: kick off the day by networking with local business leaders, entrepreneurs and support providers. This is your chance to forge new connections and discuss collaboration opportunities in a relaxed setting.
• Inspiring stories: be motivated by a young entrepreneur who has successfully turned her vision into reality. Her story is sure to inspire you to take bold steps in your own business journey.
• Masterclasses: participate in hands-on sessions covering key areas such as digital marketing, funding, and sales strategies. These masterclasses will provide you with actionable insights and practical skills to accelerate your business growth.
• Celebration of success: reflect on the achievements of businesses in the region over the past year and get a sneak peek at upcoming initiatives, including the highly anticipated West Midlands Business Festival.

Don’t miss out – register today

This event is free to attend, thanks to funding from the Government, but spaces are limited. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this milestone celebration and gain the tools you need to propel your business forward.

We look forward to seeing you there as we celebrate the achievements of the past year.

Sandwell College and Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust have signed a transformative partnership agreement, set to reshape the local employment landscape.

A landmark agreement

This collaboration will offer direct access to education and job opportunities within the healthcare sector, meeting the growing demand for skilled NHS staff. At the heart of this partnership is the development of an £18m Learning Campus, scheduled to open in Smethwick in 2025. Located at the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital site, this innovative facility will align educational programs with the needs of the local job market.

Preparing the next generation

Starting in September 2024, Sandwell College students, including school leavers and adult learners, will be the first to benefit. The campus will offer hands-on work experience, masterclasses and career guidance from NHS professionals. Graham Pennington, Principal and Chief Executive of Sandwell College, said: “This new Learning Campus is more than just bricks and mortar; it offers our students unprecedented insights into healthcare careers.”

The Learning Campus is also a key component of the Grove Lane masterplan, which aims to create 800 new homes and a sustainable neighborhood. This integrated approach will foster a connected community that benefits both current and future residents.

Richard Beeken, Chief Executive of Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, said, “The Learning Campus is a game changer, contributing to the wider redevelopment, including the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital. This net-zero building will serve as a public learning space welcoming parents, students, staff and the community, and promoting health and wellbeing.”

Creating pathways to employment

The Learning Campus is set to significantly impact local employment, supporting 1,280 learners annually. James Fleet, Interim Chief People Officer for the Trust, highlighted the initiative’s reach: “This project will create 50 new NHS jobs each year, alongside 100 apprenticeship opportunities, 250 work experience placements, and ten supported internships, especially through programs like Project Search, which helps young adults with learning disabilities find employment.”

The quotes and information used for this story came from Sandwell College, read their story here.