Meet Selina and the Erdington Walking Group
In the heart of Birmingham, a grassroots movement is quietly transforming lives – one walk at a time. Founded by Selina, the Erdington Walking Group (EWG) is a voluntary community initiative that has been promoting health, inclusion, and connection for over five years.What began as a response to a local diabetes awareness event has blossomed into a vibrant walking community open to all.
Selina recalls “I attended the event to learn more, even though I don’t have diabetes. I loved the exercise element and wanted to keep that momentum going. At the time, there was no evening walking group in Erdington – so I started one.”
Inclusive, accessible, and free
Walks are held from mid-January to mid-November:
- weekly on Monday evenings
- fortnightly on Thursdays
The group explores mostly flat, green spaces that are risk-assessed for accessibility.
EWG welcomes everyone including babies in prams, elderly walkers, wheelchair users, mobility scooter riders, dog walkers, and people of all ethnicities and abilities. There is no age limit, no pace requirement, and no cost to join. Whether you can walk for five minutes or an hour, you are a part of the group.
Safety and inclusivity are key. Walkers are covered from the front to the very back of the group. Selina and EWG volunteers wear a high-visibility vest and communicate with radios to ensure everyone is supported.
Beyond the pavement: adventures and events
EWG is not just about walking. It is about experiencing life together. Selina regularly organises weekend day outings to places like the Peak District, Blackpool Illuminations, Stratford-upon-Avon, and even free jazz events and nature centres to name a few. These excursions foster deeper connections and offer members a chance to explore beyond their usual surroundings.
“I’m always looking for events and activities that bring people together,” Selina says. “It’s about more than walking – it’s about community.”
Community impact and recognition
EWG has been featured in the multiple times and boasts a five-star rating on Facebook. Selina, who manages everything from social media to admin, also collaborates with other walking groups and services across Birmingham to expand the reach and impact of EWG.
One of the groups standout moments this year was a celebration walk marking the 100th anniversary of the former Erdington swimming baths, now being transformed into a business enterprise hub by . Highlighting her passion for connecting people with local heritage, Selina organised a walk that included historical storytelling, photos, and its vision for the future.
She also led a commemorative walk for a local library’s anniversary, encouraging community involvement in consultations and celebrating public spaces.
Looking ahead: dreams for the future
Selina envisions a future where EWG becomes a social enterprise, complete with an online shop offering wellbeing products and services and even retreats for walkers. She hopes to secure a minibus to make outings more accessible and inclusive, and to create employment opportunities through the group’s expansion.
With a small committee now in place and plans to apply for grants and open a bank account, EWG is poised for growth. It is more than a walking club – it is a movement for wellbeing, inclusion, and community spirit. Whether you are looking to improve your health, meet new people, or simply enjoy the outdoors, EWG offers a warm welcome and a steady stride toward a better tomorrow.
“People have become friends over time,” Selina reflects. “That’s what I love most – the culture, the environment, and the people.”
Contact the EWG
Telephone: 07990 109 117
Email: erdingtonwalkinggroup@hotmail.com
Social media:
Page last updated: 27 August 2025