Radio A Force For Good: A sense of community

It’s hard to put into words how challenging the last year has been, but every step of the way radio has acted as a constant support.

Radio has been a force for good in the darkest of times, supporting the nation like a reliable friend you don’t have to socially distance from. In the run up to World Radio Day on Saturday 13^th February, Radiocentre is looking at five reasons why radio has been a #ForceForGood over the past year, and calling on radio stations and listeners across the UK to share their own reasons, by posting with the hashtag and tagging @Radiocentre.

The past year has seen a great deal of uncertainty and upheaval. This experience affects different people in different ways but the longing for a shared experience and emotional support is a widespread and natural response.

According to research among some of our 36 million listeners, radio listening has been significantly boosted as workers spend more time at home. People are increasingly turning to radio for company and emotional support – nine out of ten respondents said they listened to commercial radio because “it keeps me company”, eight out of ten because “it makes them happy,” while nearly 85% said listening to the radio “improves my mood.”

As the national lockdown continues, the research also suggests that radio is playing a valuable role in supporting people’s mental wellbeing during enforced isolation.

World Radio Day 2021 is on Saturday 13^th February. The celebration is run by UNESCO and more information is available here.