Introducing the Community Operations Team
John-Jo Von Johnson, Community Operations Manager
I’m excited to share some significant news with you. Our team, formerly known as the Street Operations team, has undergone a transformation – not just in name but in purpose and identity. We are now the Community Operations Team.
You might be wondering why this change was necessary and what it means for you. I want to take this opportunity to explain our new direction and the philosophy behind it.
Embracing a Broader Vision
For many years, the term “security” has been synonymous with enforcement, control, and often, a sense of separation between our team and the community we serve. While ensuring safety and security remains a critical aspect of our work, we realise that our role is much more expansive. We are here to build, nurture, and support our BID community in ways that go beyond traditional security measures.
Our new name, the Community Operations Team, reflects this broader vision. It signifies our commitment to being more than just guardians of safety – we are partners and advocates of a harmonious and inclusive Colmore District.
Expanding Our Services
Our transformation is not just about a new name. It’s about the services we offer and how we deliver them. Here’s a closer look at what the Community Support Team is all about:
- Engagement and Outreach: We believe in proactive engagement. Our team will continue to be visible and approachable, attending community events, hosting workshops, and providing resources to help everyone feel informed and involved. We want to hear your concerns and suggestions because your input is vital to our success.
- Support and Assistance: Beyond maintaining safety, we aim to provide a wide range of support services. This includes mental health first aid, crisis intervention, and support for those dealing with difficult personal circumstances. We are here to offer a helping hand, not just enforce rules.
- Educational Programs: Knowledge is a powerful tool for building a strong community. We will be offering educational programs on topics like conflict resolution, personal safety, and community resilience. These programs are designed to empower you with the skills and information you need to thrive.
- Partnerships and Collaboration: We understand that building a strong community requires collaboration across our city. We work closely with Birmingham City Council, West Midlands Police, Trident, Sifa Fireside, St Basils, various different support services and community groups to create a network of support and resources as together, we can achieve more.
Our Commitment to You
The shift to the Community Support Team is a testament to our commitment to evolving and improving. We are dedicated to fostering a community across our District where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued. Our team members have undergone extensive training to equip them with the skills needed to provide compassionate and effective support.
Meet the team
Meet the members of the Community Operations team here.
We operate from Monday to Friday from 7am to 8pm the team can extend the hours to 10pm on key days. During these hours, the team can be contacted on 07572 257246.
For non-emergencies outside of these hours, please call 101. In an emergency always call 999.
We are also committed to transparency and accountability. Your feedback is crucial to our continuous improvement. We encourage you to share your thoughts, ask questions, and participate in the initiatives we undertake. You can email me at john-jo.vonjohnson@colmorebid.co.uk.
We hope that this new direction resonates with you as much as it does with us. We look forward to building a stronger, more connected community with each and every one of you. Thank you for your continued support and trust.
I look forward to seeing you out and about in our brilliant District!