The stall, in the centre of the market, is a designated place for local groups to raise awareness of projects, share information or organise fundraising.
It is free for local organisations to use and has been funded by £3,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, delivered though the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).
This money follows significant Government funding secured by City of Wolverhampton Council to enhance the markets in Bilston. A £5.2 million redevelopment of the neighbouring outdoor market - which will also enhance the indoor market entrance – is underway.
Local groups, schools, partnerships and charities are currently supported at the market with free stalls. However, these are usually allocated on an ad hoc basis, wherever is available.
Thanks to the funding, the new community stall offers a specially designated unit which can be pre-booked and will also allow users to advertise in advance to residents.
Pupils from St Thomas More in Willenhall hosted the stall with some Easter themed products on Friday (11 April). Their attendance is one of a series being booked by the WMCA for schools and colleges who are part of the Black Country Careers Hub.
The bookings, for special educational and mainstream schools and colleges in the Black Country, give young people the opportunity to make arts and craft items to sell, manage a stall for the day and provide students with day work experience.
As well as schools, the market has supported a range of organisations and it is hoped the community stall will encourage others to come along and share their fundraising, information and awareness raising.
Recent attendees at the market have included charities such as Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, Air Ambulance and activities run by the Bilston Business Improvement District (BID).
Stalls have also been used for public protection initiatives such as Friends Against Scams, Safeguarding Adults week, neighbourhood safety in partnership with police, Dementia action week and electric blanket testing.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, City of Wolverhampton Council’s cabinet member for digital and community, said: “This is a great new initiative for local community groups and organisations who would like to share messages or raise funds.
“We want to support our local community and this dedicated, free stall at the centre of Bilston Indoor Market is a great way to do that. We have welcomed many groups to the market in the past and would like to encourage others to come along and share what they do with local people.
“If you are a city charity, group or organisation, please get in touch to find out more information - we’d love to hear from you.”
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, cabinet member for children, young people and education, said: “It was fantastic to see the students with the products they have made.
“The community stall offers a wonderful opportunity for young people to learn about the world, gain valuable work experience and meet and chat with customers.
“Our markets are friendly places with experienced traders. I hope the young people had a great time and learned a lot of new skills.”
The new community stall is free for local groups, schools and other organisations to use and can be booked by contacting the markets team on 01902 555200 or by emailing markets@wolverhampton.gov.uk
