Community News

From politics to environmental science, history to fiction, comedy to cuisine, four packed days of events have been announced for the 20th Lichfield Literature Festival.

Fostering rules will be relaxed and red tape cut to create 10,000 new places for vulnerable children in England, the government says, making it easier for full-time workers to become foster carers under the plans and clearer guidelines are being drawn up to encourage people from diverse backgrounds to get involved.

Critical thinking skills, not just alliances, may be the secret to surviving The Traitors, according to an English language expert who says the hit show's drama reflects lessons found in school texts like Macbeth and Lord of the Flies.

Waste experts have issued fresh guidance as growing numbers of people turn to so-called “dumpster diving”, the practice of taking items from skips and bins, amid concerns about waste, recycling, and the rising cost of living.

A range of disability leisure and play sessions will be available across Caerphilly during the February Half Term, offering accessible opportunities for children and young people to be active, play and socialise in safe, supportive environments.

Two care homes in Sutton Coldfield are inviting the local community to their free dementia advice events.

The second stage of a major £19million Wolverhampton city centre transformation scheme will kick into gear from February 9.

City of Wolverhampton Council housing staff have taken part in specialist training to help them feel more confident and skilled when supporting people who may be experiencing distress, trauma or suicidal thoughts.

A Norwich-based housebuilder has donated £1,500 to Dereham Meeting Point, a local charity supporting older and disabled residents, adults with learning difficulties, and people living with dementia.

Passengers travelling on the West Coast Main Line this Easter have been urged to check before they travel as a huge programme of improvement work continues.

Twycross Zoo has announced a brand-new lineup of events and experiences for visitors of all ages to enjoy throughout 2026, including the continuation of its world-class Lanterns of the Wild experience until 22 February 2026.

Yorkshire puddings are a firm favourite on roast dinners across the region, but Severn Trent is reminding customers that making them at home can cause serious problems for sewers if leftover batter and cooking fats aren’t disposed of properly.

Tributes have been pouring in following the death of Birmingham councillor, Waseem Zaffar.

High Speed Training, a leading provider of online compliance and development training, has officially certified its 4 millionth learner, marking a significant milestone for the organisation.

Birmingham’s St Chad’s Cathedral hosts a special concert featuring Birmingham Bach Choir on Saturday 14 March 2026.

On Wednesday, 21st January 2026, on the Feast of Saint Maximos the Confessor, His Grace Bishop Maximos of Melitene celebrated his Name Day. His Grace also presided at the Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral, during which he ordained Mr Adam Georgiou to the Holy Diaconate.