Anawim Turns 40 as the Balsall Heath Community Festival Begins!
As we prepare to celebrate Anawim’s 40th anniversary, Believe in Balsall Heath are thrilled to share a dedicated History Panel installed right outside Anawim entrance on Mary Street. Celebrating the rich heritage of Mary Street and George Street, the panel stands as a proud reminder of Balsall Heath’s heritage.
Anawim anniversary celebrations on July 3rd also serves as the official kickoff for the Balsall Heath Community Festival (#BHCFest26)! This fantastic festival will bring ten days of joy, culture, and connection to our neighborhood.
From “Britain’s Busiest Cul-de-Sac” to a Sanctuary for Women
Anawim began with two pioneering nuns, Sister Magdalene Matthews and Sister Maisie Nevin in 1986. Moving into a terraced house on Mary Street, they stepped directly into the heart of what was then a notorious red-light district, at the time described as “Britain’s busiest cul-de-sac.”
The Sisters saw women in need of safety, dignity, and care. Forty years later and that single terraced house has evolved into a lifeline. Today, Anawim sits proudly on the historic site of the former St John’s School, which educated local children from 1911 to 1980. While the buildings have changed, the core mission has never wavered: helping women from all backgrounds and communities in and around Birmingham get the support, respect, and opportunities they truly deserve.
“We are so proud of our history.”
Joy, Anawim CEO
Come Take a Look!
The next time you walk past Anawim’s entrance on Mary Street, please take a moment to stop and explore the new history panel, linked to our ever expanding history trail of Balsall Heath. Trails are at the heart of 2026 celebrations in Balsall Heath and a wonderful way to experience our streets. The Balsall Heath Local History Society has been deep in the archives, uncovering fascinating stories of Balsall Heathans and Balsall Heath. Working with local partners, we have produced a series of historical interpretation panels that have been installed across Balsall Heath in 2026.
Are you celebrating with us at #BHCFest26? Drop a comment below, share your favorite memories of Balsall Heath, or tag us in your festival photos!