The first North Birmingham Economic Recovery (NB:ER) Awards celebrated the partnership’s impact with local job seekers and adult learners.

The event brought together NB:ER partners and the individuals it has supported into employment and to achieve new qualifications. The ceremony also rewarded volunteers who have worked tirelessly to support the elderly and vulnerable.
Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton, Pat Carvalho, Principal and CEO of BMET College and Linda Hines, Chair of Witton Lodge Community Association, presented the certificates in front of an audience of more than 60 guests at Perry Common Community Hall.
NB:ER Coordinator, Jobeda Shahed, said: “The Awards event really bought to life the impact of the work enabled through the NB:ER Board.

“It was brilliant to have partners, clients and volunteers all in attendance. It demonstrated that everyone has a part to pay in the journey and successes of clients and the community at large.”
After presenting achievement awards to those individuals who had secured jobs on the back of NB:ER support, Mrs Hamilton, shared her reflections on the event and the employment partnership initiative.
“It was an honour to recognise the achievements of local people who have gained jobs and skills, as well as the volunteers who continue to work so hard in our community,” she said.

“I was moved by the many stories I heard from people who have benefitted from the fantastic support offered by NB:ER. The event was a wonderful celebration of the partnership’s success and I am delighted to have been asked to chair the NB:ER board. I look forward to helping it continue to improve local people’s lives.”

Ms Carvalho presented certificate to learners who have achieved new qualifications to assist their journey into work.
“I was delighted to be part of the NB:ER Awards event, particularly to hear award winners talk about how the support they received from Witton Lodge had helped turn things around for them.

“It was really inspirational. I look forward to continuing to work with all the partners of the NB:ER with our new chair Paulette Hamilton.”
The North Birmingham Economic Recovery Board was established in April 2021. It brings together leading employers and training providers from across the region, offering live jobs, training and business investment opportunities.

These can all be accessed via the NB:ER web portal at www.northbirminghameconomicrecovery.co.uk