I’ve got quite a bit to talk about this week, but you might notice there is no big central theme. Usually, I pick one topic to go into detail about but this time I want to share the spotlight around.
Firstly, some really good news from our supported internship program. Following a successful period of work experience and training with the Solihull Connect team, I wanted to share a story of one young lad called Morgan has managed to secure a job at The Core. You can read all about it here, but I just want to take the opportunity to say what a brilliant thing supported internships are. There are so many people out there with loads of untapped potential, and supported internships can really help to get the best out of them. We do a lot of work like this as a council, often going quietly unnoticed, it’s great to see people being helped into work by the Employment and Skills team. If you know someone who could benefit, we’ve got an information session for parents and carers running in Chelmsley Wood on the evening of Monday 14 July, you can find all the information about that here.
The deadline to sign up for Solar Together has been extended to 11 July. It’s a group buying scheme for solar panels which can help you save money at home or for your small business or community group. Solar energy is good for the planet but also good for your wallet, as it can really cut down your energy bills and isn’t subject to the same fluctuations as the costs of power from other sources. I’m happy to say that Solihull is leading the region in terms of sign-ups, but I’m sure there are plenty more people who could benefit who haven’t yet taken advantage of the scheme. Take a look at the link above to see if it might work for you.
If you’re in Malvern Park over the summer you’ll see the wonderful flowerbed which has been designed by students at Newlands Bishop Farm. They’ve re-used and repurposed some old materials like tyres and a wheelbarrow to make a beautiful and innovative display of planting which features pollinator-friendly flowers and sensory elements.
The farm gives work-based training opportunities for adults with additional needs, and does great work giving experience to people and helping them to grow and develop. Their handiwork will be on show over the summer by the town centre entrance to the park, so please pop along and have a look.
This weekend is the last chance to see the excellent Chelmsley Tale at Chelmsley Wood Library or The Core. The family-friendly performance tells the story of the fairytales and legends that surround the origins of Chelmsley Wood, giving a little insight into the early history of the place and how it came to be. It’s completely free, but you do need to book.
Finally, Shirley Carnival is next Saturday (12 July). Organised by the Shirley Lions, it is a brilliant fixture in the local calendar and attracts visitors from near and far. This year there will be stuntmen, viking enactors, and loads of stalls and activities for all the family. There’s more information here, I’ll be there and I hope to see you all there too.
Thanks for reading.
Councillor Karen Grinsell, Leader of Solihull Council.