Birmingham City Council launches campaign to shape a new, resident led vision for the city
Birmingham City Council has today launched a major citywide survey asking residents to share what Birmingham means to them in 2026 — and what it means to be a modern Brummie.
The survey is part of a wider programme of work to better understand civic pride, belonging and identity across Birmingham’s many communities. Supported by the council’s Public Participation Team and partners across the city, the initiative aims to build a richer, more representative picture of how people experience Birmingham, what they value most, and what they believe could strengthen pride in the place they call home.
The ‘What is a modern Brummie?’ survey explores residents’ experiences of civic pride across demographic, geographic and cultural groups, as well as the factors that contribute to — or challenge — people’s sense of belonging. This includes perceptions of local services, public spaces, heritage, culture, community cohesion and safety.
It also seeks to understand how civic pride connects to participation in local life, such as volunteering, community action, neighbourhood forums and city events. Insights gathered will directly inform future engagement approaches and the development of a Birmingham “brand” co‑produced with residents, ensuring any future narrative truly reflects the diversity, identity and values of people across the city’s 69 wards.
The survey is designed to reach Brummies from all walks of life — from residents of the high rises in Druids Heath to those in Harborne’s regency homes; from families in Castle Vale to the tightly knit communities of Alum Rock. It also seeks to ensure voices of all those who shape Birmingham’s shared identity are represented: commuters, students, office workers, worshippers from all faiths, artists, sports fans, shoppers, visitors and those who have made Birmingham their home for generations.
Launching the survey, the council has set out a framing narrative, “Our Birmingham, Our City”, anchoring residents in a shared sense of place and belonging that celebrates the everyday experiences that unite them — from watching sports at Edgbaston, to meeting friends at Digbeth pop‑ups, to enjoying canal sidewalks, arts and culture, parks, food, festivals and Birmingham’s renowned community spirit.
How to take part
Residents can complete the survey online at:
https://www.birminghambeheard.org.uk/bcc/whatisamodernbrummie/
The council is encouraging as many people as possible to share their views to ensure the final insights reflect the full diversity of Birmingham.
