UpRising had been mentioned on more than one occasion to me in connection to the various Into Work…read moreprojects I work on. This charity concentrates its efforts on young people, 19-25, but rather than work skills, the encourage people to build in their leaderships skills. In a sense, they offer leadership a programme with the objective to equip young people with the skills and knowledge that will help them work within their communities. Ultimately the aim is to build a better Britain, starting with these young people; the leaders of tomorrow. With a base in Birmingham, they are also working in Bedford, Manchester and London. Speak to Zehra Zaidi for more details.

I've recently been introduced to the wonderful people at Turning Point whilst undertaking a charity…read moreproject to help people back into work. The small team at this Custard Factory based charity are lead by the hard working, enthusiastic, Monica who is super keen to help people. Turning Point 'turn around the lives' of those who need it, including those with substance abuse problems, those with mental illness with learning difficulties. They mentor, monitor, befriend and support people through their darkest hours and provide them with path into society. It's an amazing feat that needs amazing people at the helm and I'm very much looking forward to working with them in months to come.

From the owner: EESPro Employment Service exists to assist and enable people who have experienced substance &…read morealcohol misuse to access employment, education and training opportunities in order to enhance rehabilitation and reduce social exclusion. The service also assists Prolific and Priority Offenders (PPO).

Inside it's all a bit reminiscent of Top Shop (although its been years since I could fit into…read moreanything Top Shop makes - they are DEFINITELY not designed for ladies with bosoms) but the prices are a lot cheaper and the clothes - this being a charity shop - are a little bit more unpredictable. As well as sporting the ubiquitous and more expensive vintage rail that so many charity shops seem to be going in for (I'm not sure I approve of this by the way as said rails tend to consist of jazzy blouses that even Pat Butcher in Eastenders might've balked at or itchy looking jumpers...its my age showing probably but I thought vintage was about nice, old stuff?) this shop has a lot of nice handbags, jewellery and shoes from some of the posher high street names - Zara and Gap featured heavily. Staff are on the younger side than I'm used to but were sweet and the whole place had a nice atmosphere.

This BHF shop has revolutionised my wardrobe since it opened a couple of years ago. When I first…read moremoved to Birmingham, there was a couple of charity shops in the City Centre; meaning if you wanted to have a peruse and buy some new bits and pieces on a budget, there a was a good (ethical) option. Alas! High rents and bigger brands moved in and the Charity shops moved out. When this little shop opened, I thought it was about time to do a wardrobe clear-out and have a poke around to see what was available. It's a veritable treasure trove! As this shop is centrally located, many of the people that live in the City Centre donate here. It's always an eclectic mix, but a good one. I bought a Marks and Spencer 100% wool coat in here for £6.99 yesterday, but there was clothing from big brands (bench, Top Shop, Debenhams) and loads of lovely brand new and donated gifts on sale. As a top tip, many of the ships in town (Urban Outfitters for example) donate many gift items that they don't sell in the sale. I have picked up fabulous small presents for people from £1 that are brand new! Obviously, being a charity shop; the content will always depend on what people donate. As well as some fab bargains, you will also find vile monstrosities (which are great for costume parties!). As another top tip, they have a vintage section towards the rear of the shop. This is where the "cream of the crop" of the older clothing and accessories are picked out and put on sale. It's so much cheaper than hitting a "vintage store" in town and there is everything from gorgeous silk neckscarves (from £1) right up to flapper style dresses and americana jackets. If you need something new or have an eye for a bargain, I would always recommend heading to BHF before paying through the nose for "vintage" and brand new.

I first encountered this secret, used furniture, charity shop heaven when working on a project that…read morerequired 10 vintage wardrobes. The staff were amazing, did us an even better deal as I was working for a charity and even delivered for a small fee. Since that time about 5 years ago i often pop back either for a mooch or when I have specific furniture needs. It's a warehouse space with minimal parking out front but you'll know you've reached the right place as you'll spot the mini buses outside. With regular pick ups it's the type of place you should visit regularly and if this one is a bit far out for you then they have a few other branches in Bilston and Coventry too. They mainly sell furniture but they also have a little room full of crockery, knik-knaks and assorted bric-a-brac. You will get a bargain here. I've bought two standard lamps with big shades for less than £25, midwinter 50's serving dishes and the most random printer table that looks like oversized books. Admittedly that wasn't designed as a printer table but it was the right size and i couldn't resist the whimsy of it. For all your vintage shopping needs, charity feel good factor and a good mooch you should visit here. Even if you don't buy anything the staff are helpful and give good banter.

I love vintage, but I can't always afford to sustain my passion. That's where Community Transport…read morecomes in. A huge warehouse full of old and/or vintage furniture, with a small little shop tagged on the side which has shelves of vintage homewares, ceramics, records, books and other trinkets - plus a large selection of mirrors! It works like a charity shop - the sales of all goods go towards sustaining the transport service in the area which consists of mini buses transporting people in need about. Awesome! More awesome are the bargains to be had - we got the weirdest drawer unit in the shape of a pile of giant books for £20, a 1970s set of decorative bowls for £12 and a large ornate mirror for £5! Win!

I love a good charity shop, me, and I'm especially lured in by the promise of some cheap 50s…read morefurniture. Sure enough there was a gorgeous, Ercol style coffee table for just £15. This is why I love coming out of town. Living in the city centre, I really miss shops like this. So many bargains to be had. If the delivery price wasn't £18 then I might have bought it. I had a good look around and was amazed to find bed frames with mattresses included for as little as £80 and decent TVs for as little as £15. If you live in the area or have a car then you really should check this place out. Fridges and freezers are a bit of a let down though as they are pretty expensive and I think you could find a better deal on eBay.

WHoever moderates the stock here is doing a great job, all the items are in great condition and the…read morelayout feels well thought out and its a pleasure to navigate around the shop. Im not sure if they clean everything in shop, but all the furniture is spotless, a giant chest of draws for £50.00 that felt like it had just been sanded. The beds looked great, bit wary of second hand beds but they looked good as new. All electrical items are given a warranty, and some look better than others but there were some nice brands in there. Music blasting out the front was a bit of a put off though, poor choice but overall a really nice shop.

Crisis, you may be aware are a national charity that supports the single homeless, however, this is…read moreabout their brilliant local set up, Crisis Skylight Birmingham. I've recently found out about this outreach service that works with homeless and vulnerable adults - those who are in danger of losing the roofs over their head. They run a fantastic 12 week programme that consists of lots of elements, taster sessions to find out about new skills people can learn that may lead to new job and career options. Crisis Skylight work with many organisations to ensure anyone that goes on this programme gets the maximum from it. Having met the Director, Matt Green recently, I know that volunteers are much needed as well as links with local organisations that can help their members. They also have a dedicated person to support those who are interested in the arts so there is great scope for those who shy away from traditional corporate routes to find a career for them.

while the doctors are good, the reception staff are beyond unhelpful. they lost my documents THREE…read moreTIMES, seem incapable of understanding any question I ask and refuse to help when the online form doesn't work. also they used the wrong name for me and blamed me for it despite me having the same name the whole time I have been registered. would recommend the reception staff all get GDPR and sensitivity training. would NOT recommend anyone registers here.

The All Saints Centre is one of those does-a-bit-of-everything institution. It host events in the…read morehall for the elderly, Zumba, a Lloyds Pharmacy, a Feet-first shoe store, a GP and houses a variety of children's charities and social enterprises. It's a recent development on the Kings Heath high street, it neighbours All Saints Church and opens out onto the new Kings Heath Square. Being a very light and spacious centre this creates an uplifting atmosphere to the place. It is a wonderful resource for all of the community to rightfully enjoy. The function of it is broad, so if you need a large space for an event then I'm sure the centre could cater for your needs. The All Saint Centre is a great local asset - with many worthwhile causes to get involved with.