London: The Labour Asians Society (LAS) hosted a community dinner bringing together Members of Parliament, community leaders, prominent figures, and supporters from across the United Kingdom to discuss unity, inclusion, and the future of Britain.

The event delivered a clear message of solidarity, community engagement, and support for the values of social cohesion, opportunity, and national progress. Speakers emphasised the importance of bringing communities together and promoting constructive dialogue at a time when Britain faces significant economic and social challenges.

Among the distinguished guests were Minister for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan Hamish Falconer MP, Baggy Shanker MP, Afzal Khan MP, Dr Zubir Ahmed MP, Rupa Huqe MP, Virendra Sharma, former Member of Parliament for Ealing Southall and Chief Patron of Labour Asians Society, Raymond Keene OBE & Vice President of Labour Asians Society.

Addressing attendees, speakers highlighted the important role that Britain’s diverse communities play in strengthening the nation and contributing to its economic, cultural, and social development. They stressed the importance of unity, community engagement and positive leadership in creating opportunities for future generations.

One of the highlights of the evening was the attendance of Grandmaster Raymond Keene OBE, one of Britain’s most distinguished chess figures, author, journalist, and public commentator. In a significant moment during the event, Raymond Keene OBE announced his decision to join the Labour Party and publicly demonstrated his commitment to his new political affiliation.

Speaking to guests, Raymond Keene OBE expressed his belief in a positive, united, and forward-looking Britain. He spoke of the importance of constructive leadership, community cohesion, and national unity and stated his intention to actively support Labour’s vision for the future.

The evening also featured a special message from the Prime Minister and Leader of the Labour Party, the Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer MP, who praised the achievements and growing influence of Labour Asians Society.

In his message, the Prime Minister said:

“To all at Labour Asians Society, I want to thank the Labour Asians Society for the energy, commitment and leadership you have shown since your founding in 2023.

In a short space of time, you have built a vibrant and purposeful network, creating valuable opportunities for Asian members to connect, support one another and contribute to the life of our Party.

Your work to bring people together and open up pathways for greater participation in our movement is making a real difference.

Your regular campaigning sessions are vital in engaging with voters and strengthening the Labour Party in communities across the country. Alongside this, your active role in amplifying Labour’s achievements both online and through community media has helped ensure that our message is heard and rooted in the concerns that people care about most.

This work matters. It strengthens our Party, deepens our connection with communities and helps ensure that Labour reflects the diversity and talent of modern Britain.

Thank you again for everything you have achieved so far and for the contribution you will continue to make in the months and years ahead.”

The message received a warm reception from attendees and reinforced the Society’s growing role in community engagement and political participation across Britain.

Atta Haq, Chairman of Labour Asians Society, thanked all guests, Members of Parliament, community representatives and supporters for their continued commitment and participation.

“The Labour Asians Society was established to build bridges, encourage participation and ensure that British Asian voices continue to contribute positively to the future of our country. Our focus remains on community engagement, opportunity, inclusion, and supporting initiatives that bring people together. Tonight’s event demonstrated the strength, diversity, and unity of our communities.”

The evening concluded with a renewed commitment from attendees to continue engaging with local communities, supporting positive civic participation, and strengthening relationships across all sections of British society.

Economic conditions remain a central concern. Financial markets are responding to global uncertainties, including energy price fluctuations and geopolitical tensions. Investors are closely watching inflation trends, labor market performance, and broader European economic developments.

The UK government continues to focus on growth, productivity, and public services. Policymakers face the challenge of supporting economic expansion while managing fiscal pressures. Business groups have called for measures that encourage investment and innovation, particularly in technology, green energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Meanwhile, public debate remains active on issues such as immigration, healthcare, and the cost of living. Political parties are positioning themselves around these themes as they seek to respond to voter concerns. Analysts suggest that economic performance is likely to remain a major factor influencing public opinion throughout the year.

The UK’s international role also continues to evolve. Cooperation with European partners, trade relationships beyond Europe, and participation in global security discussions remain important aspects of foreign policy. Regional developments, including conflicts and economic disruptions abroad, have direct implications for British policymakers.

Experts note that the UK retains significant strengths, including a large services sector, world-class universities, and a leading financial center. However, maintaining competitiveness in an increasingly uncertain global economy will require continued investment and policy adaptation.

As 2026 progresses, the country’s leadership will face difficult decisions on economic management and public spending. The coming months are expected to provide a clearer indication of whether current policies can deliver sustained growth while addressing the concerns of households and businesses across the United Kingdom.

Today, instead of fear and violence, his name is becoming associated with compassion, generosity, and hope across the Sparkhill area and surrounding communities.

Every single week, Jamil and his team distribute tonnes of food to homeless people, struggling families, and individuals facing hardship. From hot meals to essential groceries, the support they provide has become a lifeline for many people who simply don’t know where their next meal is coming from.

Residents in Sparkhill have witnessed firsthand the impact of his work. Streets once associated with negativity are now seeing acts of kindness, unity, and community spirit. Jameel spends countless hours organising food collections, arranging deliveries, and personally helping those in need — often without asking for recognition.
People who know Jamil say his transformation has been inspiring. Rather than allowing his past to define him, he has used his experiences to become a force for good. He understands struggle, hardship, and survival better than most, which is why many vulnerable people trust and respect him.

Local volunteers say the food drives continue to grow week after week, helping not only homeless individuals but also elderly residents, low-income families, and people affected by the rising cost of living crisis.

Jamil Ahmed’s story is more than just a personal turnaround — it is proof that redemption is real. His journey sends a powerful message to young people across the community: no matter where you come from or what mistakes you’ve made, it is never too late to change your path and make a positive difference.

In an era filled with bad news and division, Jamil is quietly showing what community leadership truly looks like — not through words, but through action.

For many in Sparkhill, he is no longer remembered for the life he left behind, but for the lives he is now helping every single week.

Whether it’s street food or sport, culture or carnivals, the Second City will be second to none with so many free or low-cost community events happening across Birmingham this summer.

The Jewellery Quarter Festival, CoCoMad Festival in Cotteridge Park and Bournville Village Children’s Festival are just some of the early highlights.

Later in the summer Jamaica 0121 festival, celebrating Jamaican Independence, the Birmingham Jazz and Blues Festival, and Birmingham Weekender will to the city’s squares and streets with good food and music.

For sport fans, and enthusiastic supporters, there will be free events in the city centre during the Women’s T20 World Cup, and Sutton Park will host Birmingham Triathlon.

Birmingham’s much loved Bring it on Brum! holiday activity programme will also be back this summer, offering thousands of children and young people the chance to enjoy fun filled holiday clubs free of charge.

Funded by the Department for Education’s Holiday Activity and Food Programme, Bring it on Brum provides engaging activities, learning experiences, and nutritious meals for children aged 4 to 16 who are eligible for free school meals.

Bookings for summer clubs open on Monday 29 June – click here to subscribe for event updates.

Rishi Shori, deputy chief executive of Birmingham City Council, said: “Birmingham is brimming with things to do over the summer, offering something for everyone – be it in our parks, leisure centres, or venues across the city.

“Summer In The City will highlight a wide variety of activities and events with this campaign – which will help families find free or low-cost options during the summer holidays.”

For more information on free event and things to do, a live events calendar is hosted on the council’s website, where organisers can list their events for free.

Summer in the City will be run on the council’s social media accounts – so follow Birmingham City Council on Facebook, Instagram or X to ensure you don’t miss out.

London, UK – Pedro Carvalho of FNIK PR today announces with great sadness the passing of Sarbjit Kaur Grewal, affectionately known to millions simply as “Mum” from the BAFTA-nominated hit Channel 4 fly-on-the-wall documentary series The Family (2008).

Sarbjit Kaur Grewal passed away peacefully on Saturday 16th May 2026 in the loving arms of her son Sunny and surrounded by close family members.

Born in Punjab, India in 1954, Sarbjit moved to the United Kingdom in the mid-1960s and made Southall her home. She later entered into an arranged marriage with her beloved husband Arvinderjeet Singh Grewal, known affectionately to viewers as “Bhola.” Together they shared 51 years of marriage and raised three children in a household built on love, tradition, humour and resilience.

Very early into the making of The Family, it became clear that the Grewals were changing perceptions of British Asian families across the country. Led by Mum and Dad, the family entered millions of homes nationwide and quickly became one of the most loved families on British television.

Many of the family’s phrases became part of mainstream popular culture — including the now iconic line, “I want a cup of tea!” Audiences from all walks of life recognised the Grewals in public and would regularly ask for photographs and conversations with them. Sarbjit herself became the overwhelming public favourite due to her warmth, honesty, humour and unmistakable kindness.

Reflecting on Sarbjit’s impact, Pedro Carvalho said: “The series was groundbreaking, but with Mum at its heart, it showed the traditional cultural role that Asian women play within the family and society. Sarbjit represented something universal — that mothers are the backbone of every home. In Asian households especially, mums are the glue that hold families together. ”

In January 2024, Sarbjit was diagnosed with lung cancer. Despite the devastating diagnosis, she remained incredibly strong, courageous and positive throughout her battle with the disease.

In the final months of her life, Pedro Carvalho spent time interviewing Sarbjit about her extraordinary journey, family and legacy.

“Knowing she did not have much time left on earth, her courage came through immediately,” Pedro recalls. “She told me she did not fear dying because she believed God would look after her family. She was never scared for herself — only concerned about her husband, her children and grandchildren. Tears came to my eyes because I realised I was speaking to one of the bravest people I had ever met. But perhaps that is what mums are — every family’s heroines.”

Pedro added: “Channel 4’s The Family would never have been the same without Mum. She gave recognition to the role women play in society and became the first British Asian mother to truly give the nation an authentic insight into Asian family life in Britain. Millions discovered through the Grewals what modern British identity truly looks like — loving, diverse, hardworking and united through family.”

“Thank you, Mum, for your kindness, for always welcoming me into your home and, most importantly, for trusting me in allowing me to manage Sunny and Shay. May you rest in peace.”

Sarbjit Kaur Grewal leaves behind her husband, children, grandchildren, extended family and countless admirers whose lives she touched through television and through her extraordinary warmth as a human being.

Her legacy will continue to live on in British television history and in the hearts of the millions who welcomed “Mum” into their homes.

His journey started inn community radio during the mid-1990s, whem Ikram Mirza became passionate about giving ordinary people a voice , especially communities often overlooked by mainstream media. Through years of hard work, dedication, and voluntary service, he transformed that vision into one of Birmingham’s most recognised multicultural community radio stations.

Based in the heart of Alum Rock, Aap Ki Awaaz Community Radio has grown into a respected local institution. Operating from studios above retail premises on the busy high street, the station broadcasts online 24 hours a day through platforms including TuneIn and Radio Garden. Despite being a volunteer-led organisation, the station has achieved remarkable success and continues to expand its reach across Birmingham and beyond.

What makes Aap Ki Awaaz unique is its strong connection to the local community. The station delivers programmes in a wide range of languages including English, Punjabi, Urdu, Mirpuri, Gujarati, Pushto, Romanian, and others, reflecting the diversity of the area it serves. From community news and local affairs to faith discussions, cultural programmes, music, and talk shows, the station provides something for everyone.

Under Ikram Mirza’s leadership, the station became especially important during the Covid-19 pandemic. At a time when many residents felt isolated or disconnected, Aap Ki Awaaz played a vital role in keeping communities informed, supported, and united. The station became a trusted source of information and reassurance for local families, businesses, and vulnerable residents.

Alongside his broadcasting achievements, Ikram Mirza has also been heavily involved in community development and civic engagement. As a spokesperson for the Alum Rock Traders Association, he has worked closely with local authorities and businesses to improve the area, support traders, and strengthen relationships within the community.

His decades of service and commitment have recently been recognised through major awards celebrating his contribution to society. On 7th May, Ikram Mirza received an award from the Lord Mayor of Birmingham in recognition of his outstanding work within the community. Just days later, on 10th May, he was honoured again with an award from MMI for his continued dedication and support for local people.

Presently Ikram Mirza is widely respected as a pioneer of community broadcasting in and around Birmingham. Through Aap Ki Awaaz Radio station, he has not only created a very successful media platform but also built a long lasting bridge between cultures communities and generations. His work continues to inspire presenters, volunteers and local residents, proving that community radio remains one of the most powerful tools for bringing people together.

Moseley Road Baths in Balsall Heath, Birmingham, has today (22 May 2026) confirmed that Phase 2 of its landmark restoration is fully funded, following a £9,272,950 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, made possible thanks to National Lottery players. The award completes a c.£16 million Phase 2 funding package that will see one of only a handful of Grade II* listed swimming baths in the UK reopen as a thriving community destination for swimming, health, wellbeing, culture and events.

The Heritage Fund grant joins major commitments from Birmingham City Council (£5.1 million towards Phase 2, part of a £10 million total commitment to the project), the West Midlands Combined Authority’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Fund (£970,455, supporting environmental performance through air source heat pumps), Garfield Weston Foundation (£350,000), the Architectural Heritage Fund (£250,000, supporting the creation of a wellbeing hub), the Edward Cadbury Trust (£50,000) and the Saintbury Trust (12,000).

Phase 2 of the restoration will deliver:

Full restoration of the iconic Gala Pool, including a restored mezzanine gallery and a new accessible ground-floor public viewing area
Conversion of Pool 2 into a flexible event space
Transformation of the Women’s Slipper Baths into a community health & wellbeing hub
Reimagining of the Men’s Second Class Slipper Baths as a community gym
Development of the boiler room into a flexible studio space
Phase 2 will follow directly on from Phase 1 works, which commenced in September 2025 and are focused on restoration of the roofs and making the buildings watertight, basement repairs, alongside the full restoration of Balsall Heath Library – including the addition of a new mezzanine level.

Alongside the Phase 2 capital works, the project will deliver a creative programme of public engagement. Hard hat tours, activities and events will run across Balsall Heath and the Library throughout construction and in the lead-up to the Baths’ reopening (currently anticipated to be in late 2028), alongside employment and training opportunities for local people. New accessibility features – Changing Places facilities (poolside and dryside), pool hoist and pod, lift and ramp access, and wheelchair-accessible changing and viewing areas – will mean Moseley Road Baths is, for the first time in its history, welcoming to all. The National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Activity Plan also includes accessible programming designed to reach diverse audiences, including SEND, LGBTQ+, women-only swims, dementia-friendly swims, para and disability swimming lessons, and sensory swimming. Creative interpretation, onsite and online, will share the stories of Moseley Road Baths and Balsall Heath. The project will create new jobs, apprenticeships and volunteering opportunities – the first of which to go live will be recruitment for Moseley Road Baths CIO’s first ever CEO.

The Heritage Fund’s grant is one of the most significant heritage awards announced this year, and reflects the national importance of Moseley Road Baths — a building included on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk register and on the World Monuments Watch in 2016.

“This is a transformational moment for Moseley Road Baths, for Balsall Heath, and for our city. Securing the full Phase 2 funding package – and in particular this incredible vote of confidence from The National Lottery Heritage Fund – means that, after years of campaigning by an extraordinary community of staff, volunteers, partners and supporters, and years of hard graft to turn successful campaigning into a plan for the building with a workable business model, we can finally announce, with huge pride, that we will be restoring the magnificent Gala Pool and bringing this remarkable building fully back into public use. We are deeply grateful to National Lottery players, our funders, our coalition partners, a bunch of hugely committed willful individuals, and the people of Balsall Heath whose commitment and belief have enabled us to reach this milestone.” — Lucy Reid, Chair, Moseley Road Baths CIO

“Moseley Road Baths is one of the most outstanding historic swimming pools in the UK. Thanks to National Lottery players, we are pleased to award £9,272,950 to bring its iconic Gala Pool back into public use and create a community health and wellbeing hub at its heart. This is exactly the kind of project National Lottery players make possible — heritage that lives, breathes and serves its communities.” — Liz Bates, Director (England, Midlands & East), The National Lottery Heritage Fund

“Moseley Road Baths remains one of Birmingham’s most cherished landmarks and an important part of our city’s heritage as well as holding fond memories for many of our residents. Birmingham City Council is proud to have committed £10 million towards the restoration of this historic building and we are delighted to be working alongside a brilliant coalition of partners to bring this Edwardian gem back into use as a vibrant hub for swimming, wellbeing and community life, benefiting residents from across Birmingham.” — Frank Jordan, Executive Director of City Operations Birmingham City Council

“Moseley Road Baths is a real Birmingham icon and it’s now closer than ever to reopening to the public because local people never gave up on it. I’m proud to back them with the funding needed to make the baths more sustainable and to keep energy bills down. “This is the first of many investments I’m making to secure the long-term future of valued public buildings that provide important services to our communities. For Moseley Road Baths, that means keeping the pools warm and the doors open for many more generations of Brummies to enjoy.” — Mayor Richard Parker, who is also chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority

“For more than two decades, our community has fought to keep Moseley Road Baths open and to secure its future. Today’s news is a moment of immense pride. We will swim in the Gala Pool again, and this magnificent building will be a home for our community for generations to come. We’re hugely grateful to everyone who has played their part in making this happen, and to the swimmers who supported us along the way.” — Joe Holyoak, Chair, Friends of Moseley Road Baths