Matty Airey

The Property Care Association is urging Worcestershire homeowners to verify contractors’ credentials after identifying more than 50 businesses nationally that allegedly used its logo without permission or falsely claimed membership. The association says genuine members undergo an application process, regular assessments and audits, and advises consumers to check its website or contact it directly before agreeing to property work.

Redditch MP Chris Bloore visited Jaguar Land Rover’s Solihull plant to discuss the future of the automotive industry, next-generation vehicle technologies and the need to develop a skilled workforce. The plant was highlighted as a major employer and an important part of the West Midlands automotive supply chain. Bloore called for a long-term industrial strategy supporting advanced manufacturing, innovation and business investment, and pledged to work with Parliament and local employers to protect high-quality jobs in the region.

1st Woodrow Guides and Rangers in Redditch have received a £1,500 grant from David Wilson Homes through the Barratt Redrow Foundation. The funding will support running costs, a 50th-anniversary celebration, subsidised trips and activities, and new Girlguiding uniforms for around 30 girls aged 10 to 17. The unit, run by adult volunteers, says the support will help provide confidence-building and leadership opportunities, while local Brownies have also contributed welcome-home card designs for families moving into David Wilson Homes’ Arrowgreen View development.

Redditch MP Chris Bloore officially opened a new nature reserve at Abbeywood First School in Church Hill. Volunteers from David Wilson Homes Mercia and partner businesses transformed an underused area into a wildlife and learning space with gardens, benches, bird feeders, a hedgehog house, mud kitchen and renovated pond. The school plans to use the reserve for lessons on biodiversity and habitats, environmental awareness, sensory play and pupils’ social and mental wellbeing.

Redditch has launched community walkabouts, beginning in Woodrow, where residents, council services, police, public health teams, businesses and other partners identified neighbourhood concerns and agreed on practical actions. The programme will address issues including community safety, antisocial behaviour, grounds maintenance, lighting, communal areas and bin storage, with progress and outcomes to be published. Further sessions across the borough are planned as part of the council’s housing improvement and resident engagement efforts.

Redditch residents living with Parkinson’s are being encouraged to try Parkinson’s Coach, an online fitness programme created by personal trainer Katie Thompson. Its library of more than 50 videos covers balance, strength, mobility, coordination, stretching and meditation, with adaptable exercises intended to accommodate different symptoms and energy levels. The service also includes practical exercise guidance, an online community and a seven-day free trial.

Residents of Greenlands and Woodrow have until July 31 to apply for voluntary positions on a new Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board. The board will help set investment priorities and guide plans that could bring up to £20 million to the area over the next decade. Board chair Pete Martin and Redditch Borough Council leader Matt Dormer urged people who live, work or have strong ties to the neighbourhood to apply and help shape its future.

A Worcestershire-based fundraiser invites participants to join a 2027 Mount Toubkal trek supporting St Richard’s Hospice, with an online information event scheduled for July 27. The challenge aims to raise money for the hospice’s free care services, which support thousands of patients annually. Past participant Ann‑Marie Dodson highlights the sense of purpose and achievement these treks offer. Funds will contribute to meeting the hospice’s rising annual costs of around £12 million.

Three Worcestershire green spaces—Worcester Woods Country Park, Waseley Hills Country Park and St Wulstan’s Local Nature Reserve—have retained their Green Flag Awards, marking over a decade of consistent high standards. Worcestershire County Council attributes the achievement to the dedication of staff and volunteers, while Keep Britain Tidy emphasises the broader importance of well‑maintained parks for public wellbeing and community life.

Coughton Court near Alcester is offering an extensive programme of summer holiday activities, including free storytelling sessions, craft workshops, outdoor games, Art with Becca classes, a duck race, a village fete and an outdoor theatre performance. Activities run from mid‑July to the end of August, with a mix of free and ticketed events aimed at families and children. The estate manager highlights the programme’s aim to help visitors create memorable summer experiences, and general admission details and pricing are provided.

A new jobs and skills festival in Redditch drew more than 500 attendees, bringing together over 40 employers, training providers and community groups in a festival‑style setting aimed at making career conversations more approachable. MP Chris Bloore praised the event’s strong turnout and reported that some jobseekers received offers on the day. Supported by local businesses and organisations including the Department for Work and Pensions, Redditch Jobcentre and Careers Worcestershire, the event offered information on jobs, apprenticeships and training opportunities. Plans are underway to expand similar employment initiatives in Redditch and nearby villages.

Three major arts commissions under Redditch’s ReNEW programme will deliver new digital, visual and performing arts projects aimed at strengthening local culture and expanding creative opportunities through 2027. Overhear Ltd will lead a digital project connecting residents with green spaces, Trigger Productions will develop performances inspired by local fairground heritage, and INSTAR will guide visual arts work based on community stories. Local leaders highlight the initiatives as fostering pride, inclusion and creativity across Redditch and surrounding areas.

Redditch MP Chris Bloore visited the McDonald's restaurant in Oakenshaw to observe new digital systems, meet employees and briefly work the drive‑through. Franchisee Robert Holdcroft outlined recent operational upgrades and the company’s role as a major local employer with over 400 staff. The visit also highlighted McDonald’s support for RecruitFest, a job fair aimed at connecting residents with employment opportunities, as part of Bloore’s wider engagement with businesses contributing to the local economy.

A Redditch community clothing swap has grown into an award‑nominated sustainability initiative, attracting over 100 attendees at its latest event and redistributing more than 1,000 clothing items. Since its launch in 2025, it has rehomed over 2,500 garments, helping residents save money during the cost‑of‑living crisis while reducing textile waste. Organiser Katie Kendrick and volunteers emphasise the environmental impact of fast fashion, supported by local sewing business owner Sarah Baker, who offered repair and upcycling advice. The swap has been shortlisted for a Community Hero Award, and new volunteers are joining as future events are planned.

Families in Redditch are invited to attend a free YMCA Worcestershire Family Fun Day featuring activities such as an inflatable assault course, children’s events, crafts and community stalls. The event, held at Willow Trees Community Centre, aims to strengthen community ties and raise awareness of the YMCA’s support for local children, young people and families.

Heart of Worcestershire College held two award ceremonies recognising students across its campuses for academic achievement, personal growth and contributions to college life. CEO Michelle Dowse praised learners’ determination, while keynote speaker Baasit Siddiqui presented the awards. Denys Beilov and Eddie Price received Student of the Year honours for different campuses, with the college reaffirming its commitment to inclusive, high‑quality education.

Redditch encourages residents to report anti-social behaviour during ASB Awareness Week, emphasising its impact on daily life and the importance of early intervention. The borough highlights support available to victims, the role of appropriate reporting agencies and the introduction of a Neighbourhood Warden scheme to strengthen local responses. Community safety partners continue coordinated efforts to keep the area safe while urging residents to come forward with concerns.

Astwood Bank Carnival will return for its 39th year on July 11 with a Wonderful World of Books theme, featuring a procession, live music, fairground attractions and family activities. The event, which includes a Summer Sundowner on July 10, remains free to attend and supports local community projects, reinvesting about £10,000 over the past year. Organisers emphasise its role in showcasing local talent and strengthening community spirit.