Our Mission
To enrich the lives of older people and others in need through a range of services we offer.
Our Vision
To make a positive difference, adding value to people's lives by offering services to promote wellbeing and independence.
Our Values
- Everyone Counts
- Caring
- Promote Wellbeing
- Work in partnership
- Innovative
Our History
A new chapter
Age Concern Birmingham has changed its name to Age Connects West Midlands. This change marks the start of an important new chapter for us. While our name is changing, our purpose, values, and commitment to supporting our communities remain exactly the same.
Why we are changing our name
We recognise that the name "Age Concern" no longer reflects who we are today. Over the decades, our organisation has grown from its early roots supporting older people in wartime into a wider, modern charity serving diverse communities across the region.
Age Connects West Midlands better represents our mission to bring people, services, and communities together, celebrating ageing rather than seeing it as a concern.
What this means for our services
Our services, teams, and charitable purpose remain unchanged. The rebrand simply gives us the freedom to grow, innovate, and reach even more people who can benefit from our support.
Aside from our new name and visual identity, everything our users and partners value about our organisation continues as before.
Looking ahead
The decision to rebrand has been carefully planned and approved by our Board, and the transition will be completed over the coming weeks.
Like any organisation, investing in our brand is an investment in our future, ensuring we remain strong, visible, and ready to meet the needs of the communities we serve.
How you can support us
We would be grateful if you could help us share our updated name and identity. Spreading the word, engaging with us online, attending upcoming events, or simply telling others about your experience with our organisation all make a meaningful difference.
If you have any questions about the change, please contact hello@ageconnectswm.org.uk.
Thank you for your continued support as we begin this exciting new chapter.
Who we are
Age Connects West Midlands is a local charity supporting older people and others in need across the West Midlands to live independently, stay connected, and enjoy later life.
We work to improve independence and reduce loneliness, improve wellbeing, and provide practical support when it is needed most. Through groups, activities, one to one support, and community services, we help people feel valued, informed, and connected.
Our work is rooted in compassion, dignity, and respect. We believe every person should have the opportunity to live well and remain active in their community.
Whether someone needs social connection, access to activities, advice, or support, Age Connects West Midlands is here to help.
Senior Leadership Team
Meet the people guiding our mission to support older people across the West Midlands.
Becky Bews
Chief Executive Officer
Becky Bews holds executive responsibility for leading strategic growth, partnership development and the delivery of high-quality services across the two charitable organisations Age Connects West Midlands and Jubilee Citizens UK, and accountable for organisational performance, governance, financial sustainability and regulatory compliance, ensuring both charities operate to a consistently high standard and deliver measurable impact. With a professional background in mental health and formal mentoring training, Becky brings strong systems leadership, underpinned by a commitment to workforce development, co-production and continuous improvement in outcomes for the people and communities the organisations serve.
Dawn McCarthy
Head of Operations and Development
I’ve spent over 10 years working with a charity that means a great deal to me, gradually finding my way into a role where I help shape and support the work we do.
It’s not always easy—in fact, it can be the most challenging work I’ve ever taken on—but it’s also, without question, the most rewarding. There aren’t many jobs where you can see the difference you’re making every day, which makes even the tougher moments feel worthwhile.
I’ve always wanted to do something meaningful, and after all this time, I still feel very lucky to say that I do.
Emma Turner
Head of Finance
Working across Age Connects West Midlands and Jubilee Citizens UK, Emma has responsibility for financial strategy, oversight, and compliance. She plays a key role in supporting the organisation's leadership team, ensuring that financial planning aligns with long-term objectives. Drawing on her experience in finance, Emma focuses on building sustainable systems and improving financial clarity, helping the organisation make the best possible use of its resources.
