BCfm launch free DAB radio scheme to help tackle loneliness among over-50s

BCfm launch free DAB radio scheme to help tackle loneliness among over-50s

Posted on: 05 Feb 2021

The station have started distributing free radios across the local community.

 

Award-winning local radio station BCfm have announced plans to help tackle loneliness during the pandemic, by offering free DAB radios to older people living in Bristol.

 

With hundreds of thousands of us forced to stay indoors once again under a third UK lockdown, people of all ages are feeling the effects of spending extended periods of time without any contact with friends, family and loved ones.

 

Older people are among the most likely to feel lonely during lockdown, however, with many advised to shield and self-isolate to minimise risk of catching the virus.

 

 

Age UK estimates that as many as half a million older people in the UK regularly go up to six days without seeing or speaking to anyone, a figure that's bound to be on the rise as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

 

With that in mind, BCfm want to ensure as many people as possible have access to radio as an important source of news, information and companionship during such a difficult period.

 

The station is teaming up with local community groups and charities to distribute free DAB radios across Bristol, working alongside Eastside Community Trust, Dhek Bhal, Bristol & Avon Chinese Women’s Group, The Evergreen Club, Council of Bristol Mosques, Bristol Black Carers, Age UK Bristol, SARI, Malcolm X Elders Forum, The Golden Agers and BCfm’s own Silversound team.

 

 

Speaking on the launch of the new scheme, Patrick Hart, Station Manager at BCfm, said:

 

“Our service is a lifeline to so many - we offer a mix of talk and music shows for under-represented audiences, such as the over 50s, with some our older listeners having no internet access or English not as their first language.

 

“BCfm are working with the police, local councils, charities and other agencies to pass out hyper-local Coronavirus and mental health information as well as other health-related content.”

 

If you know of any other groups or charities curently working to support over-50s, get in touch with BCfm via email and let them know where they can distribute more radios.

 

Alternatively, to find out more about BCfm or to tune in, head to their website.

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Article by:

Matt Robson

 

Editor - 365Bristol.com & LOUD Magazine
 

Matt is a Journalism graduate and writer, passionate about supporting Bristol music, art and independent business. Get in touch via email at matt@365bristol.com.