After 13 years in post as scheme manager, the James Charities said a fond farewell to Carole. We wish her all the best in her new role and thank her for all she has achieved here.

Earlier this month, residents, neighbours and representatives of the local community came together to meet staff, directors and architects and discuss plans to develop part of the site on Stuart Street. Over the next few years, we hope to redevelop the communal building on the site of the old St Clement's Church, providing improved facilities and ten new, accessible, eco-friendly almshouses for local older people in need. The plans include space to store and charge mobility scooters, raised beds, a green roof and a wildflower meadow.

We’re grateful to two organisations for their support in 2021.

Thanks to an award from Localgiving and the Postcode Local Trust, a grant-giving charity funded by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery, we will be able to install raised beds to enable residents to get involved in gardening, including growing our own vegetables.

And thanks to funding from Active Communities, an initiative led by the Active Wellbeing Society, Birmingham City Council and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, we have been able to step up our plans to get active through sports, exercise, art and crafts, and gardening.

Thank you!

Residents and Directors gathered to say a fond farewell to Chief Officer Dave Fisher, who has left the James Charities after 6-plus years years of sterling service.

A presentation was made to Dave as a thank-you. He goes with our best wishes and hopes for good luck for the future.

Incoming Chief Officer William Coffin, was also present; we welcome him into his new role.

Staff and residents braved a chilly night for a socially distanced switch on of the Christmas lights.

Residents enjoyed Christmas carols, and were beneficiaries of hot and cold snacks provided by local contractor, Pym’s.

Festive lights adorn the front of each block and the large tree next to the communal hall, and will be up until the new year.

After a challenging year, Scheme Manager Carole and the Directors were very keen to finish 2020 on a positive note.

A special thank you to Carole Crockett, celebrating ten years at the James Charities.

Here's to many more!