What is it about?
This article explores the challenges facing managers of licensed local community radio stations in the United Kingdom working to deliver on their 'key commitments' - as stated in their Ofcom licence agreements. The evidence discussed was gathered in two fieldwork phases between 2018 and 2021. Since half the interviews were conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of lockdown is also covered. Subjective accounts are shared relating to what managing a station entails when resources are limited and some of the tensions that arise due to standards compliance and securing income-generating opportunities.
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Why is it important?
The discussion raises questions about how under-funding and varying levels of institutional support impact upon how closely operators conform to the ideals of grassroots community access broadcasting. Noting the diversity of contexts within the sector, the conclusion is drawn that further research is essential since a one-size solution will not suffice. Commonalities do exist however, such as the importance of social capital. This article calls for the profile of community radio’s public service offer to be enhanced and explicitly promoted as an asset within localities, particularly in the post-pandemic recovery period.
Perspectives
Having experienced first-hand how much the community radio sector relies on the commitment and passion of volunteers, I fully appreciate the complicated relationships involved. In situations where resources are not plentiful, where time is currency, networking to build connections and finding creative solutions is vital. This research focuses on how some of the UK's community stations are able to keep going, through thick and thin.
Dr Josephine F Coleman
Brunel University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Strength in numbers: The challenges of running community radio in the United Kingdom, Interactions Studies in Communication & Culture, April 2021, Intellect,
DOI: 10.1386/iscc_00039_1.
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