Local charity LoveBrum has provided support for more than 40 ‘hidden gems’ in 2019, says Executive Director, Paul Mitchell

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

I am executive director of Birmingham charity, LoveBrum which aims to support local people to help to make a positive change in their local areas. We support small, hidden gem projects that are mostly volunteer-led. Every penny we receive gets distributed – we don’t take any running costs from the fund and our lean overheads are covered by companies that support us or from grants we receive. In 2019, we provided funding and support to more than 40 Birmingham-based organisations and charities.

HOW DO YOU GET INTO TOWN?

We are based in the Zellig building in Digbeth, so whenever possible I cycle to work – I am lucky it’s not far!

IS BRUM A GOOD PLACE TO WORK IN?

Birmingham is a fantastic place to live and work – it has so much going for it! It is diverse in every way, forever developing and changing, but also has a terrific amount of pride and sense of community.

COFFEE BREAK?

If I am close to home, Bloom in Kings Heath is my go-to. If I am in town, it’s Faculty in Piccadilly Arcade. If I want to hide away and work on the laptop, I love the atmosphere of the newer 200 Degrees Coffee in Lower Temple Street.

LUNCHTIME?

I tend to make all my meals at home (I am a keen cook). However, being in Digbeth, we are lucky to have so many great food options, so I always make time for a weekly treat!

POWERWALKING?

I tend to get my fresh air during my daily commute, which also takes in Cannon Hill Park, which is a great space to sit back and watch the world go by.

WHERE’S YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE CITY?

I love Digbeth – it’s creative and vibrant, with a mix of cutting-edge ideas and old industry; the building scape alone never gets tiring or looks the same. I also really like Moseley and Kings Heath.

AFTERWORK PINT?

We’re totally spoilt for choice in Digbeth – we seem to be getting new bars/pubs almost weekly, so still many to try! Another firm favourite is the Good Intent in Great Western Arcade – the UK’s first not-for-profit bar. It’s a fantastic drinking spot – and LoveBrum is very fortunate to receive a percentage of the bar’s takings. Closer to home, a pint in the local or a fancy glass of wine in Grace + James in York Road, Kings Heath.

HOW CAN THE CITY BE MADE BETTER?

I think Brummies notoriously play down how great the city is, but they are also so proud. As an adopted Brummie, I think it really is the best city in the UK; it had its issues as all cities do, but investment and growth is happening. We do need some improved infrastructure, but it is getting there. My biggest bugbear is possibly litter – it drives me mad and is something that everyone can do something about.