Today saw the first meeting of our new Steering Group, who will give us guidance and support as we develop the four new trails from the existing Legacy Heritage Trail, which was originally launched in 2013. Although the weather looked menacing when we woke up, as the morning progressed, the sun shone and cleared away the worst of the snow. Thanks to those who braved the remaining snow and made their way to Soho to discuss the project.
2018 marks the centenary of a landmark date in women’s struggle for emancipation. In February 1918, the Representation of the People Act was passed, which allowed some women over the age of 30 a vote for the first time. Although this was a great leap forward, it by no means enfranchised all women, and around 60% of women in the United Kingdom were still not allowed to vote after the Act was passed, either because they were under 30, or because they did not meet the property qualifications.
Many people within the Handsworth community will be relaxing at the weekend with their family or friends in one the new shisha lounges – the unofficial ‘halal’ nightclubs.
Shisha smoking – also called hookah, narghile, waterpipe, or hubble bubble smoking – is a way of smoking tobacco mixed with fruit or molasses, through a glass-bottomed water pipe.
A pumpkin is not just for Halloween, it’s for long term health! Don’t be fooled by its spooky reputation – it’s actually one of the most nutritious fruits available.
The pumpkin is a large orange fruit harvested in October. Traditionally it is used to make soup, pie and breads, however it is being increasingly used as a holiday decoration for Halloween. The tradition of a carving pumpkin and adding a candle to make a ‘jack-o’-lantern’ originated hundreds of years ago in Ireland and has been popularised by American culture.
Those of you who know me well, will have heard me say, “I’m 45 years old and still in my prime!” Unfortunately it didn’t feel like that towards the end of 2015, when I suffered from the worst attack of flu that I’ve ever had. I was bed ridden for two days straight, and continued to suffer for a further two weeks. I felt old and week. I also lost half stone in weight.
Legacy WM has been working with older Asian women in the Handsworth and Lozells area of Birmingham, to engage them in physical activity and healthy cooking workshops, as a way of preventing social isolation, improving their health and well-being.
The ‘Women Can’, project was developed as a result of research into the health of local people which revealed that life expectancy 8 years is less for women than other parts of the city.
I have had the privilege of volunteering for Legacy WM since January 2016. I came on board to help the charity with their social media, as well as keep their website up-to-date with relevant and new information. I have also spent time training the staff how to use applications and services such as Joomla and Mailchimp to empower them to confidently and independently use these tools. My time here was not all spent on everything digital and web based, I also took part in the charities community events and various projects like ‘Family Fit’.
Legacy WM hosted a phita mela and family fun day with a group of volunteers for the local community. The word ‘phita’ in Bengali means a variety of snacks; these could be sweet or savoury. The idea to host a ‘phita’ mela came about when a group of volunteers approached us and wanted us at Legacy to support them in organising it.
I haven't rode a bike in 50 years and that was when I was 10 years old. The bikes have changed and they now have gears for both the front and back wheels. I had the front wheels in 1st gear and the back wheels in 2nd gear which made for a better work out for me. Khalam is great, patient and encouraging and I couldn't have done it or enjoyed it without him. I'm looking forward to a larger group next week as even in the heat there was a considerable breeze throughout. Thank you very much for this opportunity.
I’m delighted to be joining Legacy WM board of trustees both to support the development of a brilliant grass roots organisation in our city, and to connect The Rep with more local communities and learn how we can better serve them through our work as a major city institution.
I joined badminton at the age of 13 with my younger sister at the Lighthouse Youth Centre in Lozells. Before this I had no prior experience to the sport and always felt nervous when stepping onto the court. However, after attending many sessions regularly and punctually, I began to notice improvement within my skill and also confidence.
The gym has also helped me become more social. The atmosphere at Doug Ellis is welcoming, inclusive, and full of positive energy. The staff are always friendly, professional, and genuinely supportive. I’m incredibly grateful to Legacy for making this membership possible, and to everyone at Doug Ellis Gym for creating such a fantastic space. Thank you for helping me build a healthier lifestyle and stronger family connection. From the bottom of my heart — thank you.
Legacy WM has helped me shape my skills and knowledge, providing a safe space for me to grow and learn. It's like having a routine that guides me in various tasks, similar to following a structured diet that ensures I stay healthy and efficient. The trips that Legacy WM have provided have been eye opening and very enjoyable.
Freedom50 charity bike ride in Bangladesh was one the greatest moments of my life, which I will cherish for as long I live.
Riding with the Freedom50 group is amazing, its great company, mostly enjoyable (when it’s not too hilly, but hey, that’s where the best memories are made and where you get the best laughs!). It’s a brilliant way to stay fit, and coupled with charity rides, a great way to raise money for a needy cause.
My experience volunteering has been nothing short of inspiring - local artists, and community leaders, has encouraged me to dig deeper into the socio-political histories of Birmingham. Working alongside staff has been a grounding experience for me. I feel more capable to engage with the world critically, consciously, and optimistically.
Walks around the park are relaxing. I like taking in nature and experiencing nature, whilst having great conversations with local residents. These walks have improved my life and have enabled me to continue with my passion for movement. I am now walking most mornings as a result of my role as a walk leader for Legacy WM.
Clover HR are genuinely pleased to be able to support the work done by Legacy WM. We have been involved with Aftab and his Team for several years and know their tireless efforts directly and positively affect peoples lives everyday.
I find it really good and it’s boosted my confidence. Meeting new people is really nervous for me. The group has boosted my confidence in playing with others I’ve never met before in life…they’re really kind, they’re really funny and they inspire me to keep going… My game has progressed. I’m good at serving, hitting, smashing and everything. So I’m very thankful for the coaches helping inspire me to play… It helps me as well with my mental wellbeing as well.
The youth forum I’ve been a part of since I’ve joined Legacy WM has not only allowed me to make life long friends, it’s also allowed me to enjoy thrilling activities with these people. Not only has it done this, it’s also allowed me to refine my skills in badminton which I will forever be grateful for.
Legacy WM is committed to creating a diverse environment reflecting the communities in which we work. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer where all job applicants will be considered for employment irrespective of our differences.
The values and beliefs at Legacy WM enable our employees to bring their full self to work, develop their potential and engage in a world full of inclusion.
