Over the years, there has been a lot of information published about the challenges faced by communities in Lozells and Handsworth particularly around the disturbances/riots in 1981, 1985, 2005 and 2011. More recently, the inequalities in Lozells were laid bear with the Covid pandemic with Lozells being reported as one of the worst hit neighbourhoods in Birmingham in the first phase of the pandemic.
However, there are some real unsung heroes in the community who have helped themselves, their families, and the wider community to overcome the difficulties and achieve success. This project aims to give a flavour of some of those have contributed to making these neighbourhoods better for all.
The resilience of the community to recover and progress positively came through each of the video interviews and the commitment to keep going despite substantial challenging flashpoints.
In fact, some in the community feel, despite the continued deep-rooted inequalities in the neighbourhood, the vibrancy of the high street conveys that the local economy of independents is booming. The local economy is supported by a well-established voluntary sector where there is substantial social asset, the vast majority being local people committed to helping support the local community.
This project also recognises some true champions and their stories of how they have contributed to the community and will no doubt inspire the next generation of leaders from Lozells who would want to take the neighbourhood on the next phase of its journey.
From those who founded the industrial revolution and their very deep rooted link to Lozells and Handsworth, to the first cohort of ethic minority leaders and activists in the 1970’s and 1980’s to the current group, Lozells and Handsworth has always been blessed with strong local leadership who have taken the communities on journey’s with them and speak passionately about the communities and the needs of the communities at every level.
Please watch the videos, read the stories and share these widely and please do let us have your feedback, comments and any questions. Enjoy.
