Making Birmingham an inclusive city

Foreword - A call to action
When I was asked to lead the Social Inclusion Process, Giving
Hope Changing Lives, I did not hesitate to take up the
challenge. In this time of unprecedented global economic and
social uncertainty, it is vital that we work together across the
city to shape the future wellbeing of the people of Birmingham.
As the largest UK city outside London, with one of the most
diverse and youthful populations anywhere, Birmingham has
the natural talent and global potential to be the very best setting
for 21st century urban life.
Achieving the best quality of life is important for everyone, but in order to do this,
people need to be able to participate fully in society and the economy. The high level
of disadvantage that persists across Birmingham is extremely distressing and could
become worse in the current climate. Inequality and social exclusion is something
that we should not easily accept in a rich country and a city like ours. Our aim is to
bridge the gap between the disadvantaged and the powerful, so that more people
can participate in the economic and social opportunities at work, home and play.
Evidence from the process shows that the challenges in achieving this aim are most
demanding. Our key lines of enquiry, whether in households, streets or communities,
in institutions, organisations or enterprises, revealed a new expectation that a more
cohesive city is the responsibility of all, and is in the interests of all.
This task moves beyond what the city council or national government can do, not
least when budgets are being reduced drastically. It will require the combined energy,
resources and wisdom of everyone to address some of the fundamental economic
and social issues we face, and to protect those who are most vulnerable in our
communities. I am extremely grateful for everybody’s contributions so far. The
findings from the process were set out in our Green Paper. This White Paper
presents the commitments and recommendations that the steering group feels will
have an impact on social inclusion in the city.
However, this does not cover everything and this is not the end of the process. I am
asking for your help and expertise to turn these ideas into action. I invite you to
engage immediately with items in this paper that you can influence, and also to point
out to us areas you can help deliver.
I am aware that I am taking a leap of faith that we want to promote another’s
fulfilment at the same time as our own. As we seek the welfare of the whole city,
may we know that we are committed to Giving Hope and Changing Lives when, in
our relations with our fellow human beings, distant respect moves to deep
appreciation and mere tolerance becomes full participation.
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The Right Rev. David Urquhart
Bishop of Birmingham