Birmingham’s Irish folk are renowned for their community spirit. Whether it’s through arts and music festivals, valuable charity work, major events like the St Patrick’s Day parade or smaller get togethers where people simply gather to share a kind word, the Irish community has always made a significant contribution to the cultural life of the city and the wider region.

In this column, I want to tell you about a big, region-wide community event that I’m sure many will want to get involved with – and the funding that is available if you do.

The Mayor’s Community Weekend is back. This brilliant event was put on hold during the pandemic, but this year – on the weekend of Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September – it will once again provide a chance for people to come together to celebrate the strength and diversity of West Midlands’ communities.

Altogether, £150,000 of National Lottery funding is being made available for events and activities that bring communities together to strengthen existing connections and give them opportunities to make new ones.

Grants ranging from £500 to £2,000 will be on offer to all areas of the West Midlands.

These events and activities could be anything from community gatherings such as picnics and celebrations, litter picks, volunteering, through to sports and cultural events.

I believe the diverse communities right across our region are a remarkable source of strength for us all.

That’s why I’m delighted that – after a covid induced hiatus – we’ll be putting on the first Mayor’s Community Weekend since the pandemic. This will be a wonderful opportunity for people to come together.

We’re inviting people to apply for funding so I would encourage local people to step forward and get involved. I cannot wait to enjoy a weekend of celebration this September and I look forward to seeing it all in action.

Communities have until 12 noon on 7 June to apply for funding to hold an event during the West Midlands Mayor’s Community Weekend.

I hope Birmingham’s Irish community will live up to their well-earned reputation for community spirit, by embracing this brilliant event.

Find out how to apply at the National Lottery Community Fund website.

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