Birmingham Settlement was delighted to attend the Birmingham Community Action Network (B:CAN) Annual Conference 2026 at Edgbaston Stadium, joining community organisations, funders and public sector partners from across the city to explore how we can work together to create stronger, fairer communities.
The conference featured a programme of keynote speakers, panel discussions and Q&A sessions, bringing together voices from across Birmingham’s voluntary, community and public sectors. A clear theme emerged throughout the day: the growing call from Birmingham’s communities to do things differently. Speakers highlighted the need to challenge the status quo, strengthen collaboration, and secure long-term investment in trusted community organisations to realise the opportunities ahead for the city.
One of the day’s highlights was the Funding Local Services & Community Change panel, facilitated by Ajit Singh, Managing Director of Nishkam Civic Association. The panel brought together representatives from The National Lottery Community Fund, Big Issue Invest, Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales and Sport England to discuss the importance of sustained investment in community-led organisations and the partnerships needed to tackle inequality and create lasting local impact.
For Birmingham Settlement, the conference reinforced the value of collaboration and the vital role that anchor organisations play in supporting communities. We are proud to be part of the B:CAN, working alongside partners across the city to place power in communities, strengthen local neighbourhoods and improve opportunities for Birmingham residents.
Collectively, B:CAN members support almost 37,000 Birmingham residents every month through community-led action, demonstrating the significant contribution the voluntary and community sector makes to the city.
We would like to thank everyone at B:CAN for delivering such an inspiring and thought-provoking event, and for creating the opportunity to share learning, strengthen partnerships and look ahead with optimism.
To find out more about Birmingham Community Action Network, visit https://bcan.co.uk/.
