I’ve got a bit of a range of things to talk about in my column this week, from International Women’s Day, to our fantastic parks, and the work we do for children in Solihull.
It’s not surprising I’m trying to pack things in now, we’re getting close to the pre-election period which restricts the type of communications that can be sent out by councils and politicians alike. So, if you feel like this edition is a bit of a whirlwind, I’m just trying to make sure I share all the news I can before the cut-off in a couple of weeks.
On Monday I went along to a brilliant Women’s networking event run by the excellent Solihull Soroptimists. It was brilliant to see women, representing businesses big and small, the charity and voluntary sectors, and of course local government. It’s inspiring to meet and connect with so many driven, determined and talented women who are living or working in Solihull.
I was particularly proud, as the first ever female Leader of Solihull Council, to have a chance to speak on stage with Carmen Watson, who is soon to take over as the first ever female High Sheriff of the West Midlands. She has been an outstanding Deputy Lieutenant, and I have no doubt at all that she will carry on her good work in her new role. Events like this are important as they show the practical purpose behind initiatives like International Women’s Day. Not just recognising the contributions of women in society and the challenges they still face but providing a practical way for us to meet and form connections to keep pushing forward the work we all do and improve the lives of women in Solihull.
One improvement that will benefit everyone who walks from Solihull Town Centre to Tudor Grange Park is the excellent artwork that has been completed on the underpass. It brightens that whole stretch of path up and makes it a much more enjoyable journey. Thanks to Love Solihull for organising it and to Aaron, the Chelmsley Wood based artist who did the job to such a high standard. There are even six Horace the Hedgehogs hidden in the design. Next time you’re making that walk, see if you can spot them!
In other parks news, Solihull Council and Veolia have kicked off Malvern Park’s 100th birthday celebrations by unveiling 16 vibrant shields designed by care experienced young people, with 84 more set to pop up around the park soon. The artwork will appear across the park and in places like Touchwood and local libraries as part of a year‑long campaign celebrating nature, creativity and the centenary of one of Solihull’s best‑loved green spaces.
Earlier this week I met with the Minister for Children and Families as he was visiting our Children’s Services staff following the hard work they put in to turn our Ofsted rating around and get to ‘Good’, which was announced earlier this year.
Finally, I recently popped along to Solihull Moors to support the Unite for Access Campaign to promote accessibility and inclusion for disabled sports fans. Everyone should be able to enjoy the highs (and lows) of supporting their team and the club is doing great work to make that a reality. I support their values of inclusion, unity and opportunity and the work they are doing to break down barriers in sport.
Thank you for reading,
Karen