[cma-l] 10 years of community radio in the UK

[CMA-L]

*Community radio, which offers thousands of volunteers the chance to get
involved in broadcasting across the UK, is now ten years old.*

The last decade has seen the number of community radio stations increase
from just a handful to more than 230 stations, each reflecting the local
needs and interests of its audience.

Community radio is a not-for-profit sector, largely run by an army of
20,000 dedicated volunteers, who collectively work for around 2.5 million
hours1 every year to bring original programming and locally-made content to
listeners around the country.

Stations usually broadcast to everyone in a geographical area, but around a
third tailor their output to serve a particular community- such as older
people, or an ethnic or religious group.

Community radio stations typically cover a 5km radius, broadcasting on
average 93 hours a week of original output. Many reflect a diverse mix of
cultures and interests in their region. Stations also work within their
community to offer a range of benefits such as training opportunities, work
experience, local news and information resources.

Susan Williams, Community Radio Manager at Ofcom, said: "Community Radio
stations have deep-rooted connections in their communities. Local people
run these stations, producing content to inform and entertain their local
community and offering real benefits like radio training.

"In ten years we've seen the sector grow in popularity, with large numbers
of volunteers continuing to be involved and stations becoming a central
part of communities up and down the country."
The first station

Ofcom launched the first phase of community radio licensing back in
September 2004 and received 200 applications for the first licences.  The
first station to launch after this was The Eye in Melton Mowbray, which was
recently honoured for its long-standing contribution to its local community.

The Eye has doubled its workforce in 10 years, with all staff volunteering
their time. Other stations reaching their 10-year milestone in the coming
weeks include Unity 101 in Southampton, Awaz FM in Glasgow, Angel Radio in
Havant, Cross Rhythms City Radio in Stoke on Trent, and GTFM in
Pontypridd.

Community radio provides a voice for communities across the UK stretching
from the Scilly Isles to the north of Scotland. Ofcom remains committed to
helping it grow into its second decade.

Earlier this year Ofcom began trialling a new technological approach which
could provide a more affordable way for smaller stations to broadcast on
DAB digital radio, ensuring UK listeners could benefit from hundreds more
local and community radio stations in the future.

Source: http://consumers.ofcom.org.uk/news/community-radio-at-10/
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Community Media Association
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http://www.commedia.org.uk/
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https://www.facebook.com/CommunityMediaAssociation

Canstream Internet Radio & Video
http://www.canstream.co.uk/
https://twitter.com/canstream
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