Free DAB radios offered to over 50s in Bristol to help combat loneliness

BCfm is pooling resources with community groups across Bristol to distribute free DAB radios to vulnerable people in a bid to tackle loneliness.

The mission to reach out to over 50s forced to live in isolation during lockdown is born out of recognition that radio is a lifeline to many, providing a source of news and companionship through difficult times.

Half a million older people in the UK go up to six days without seeing or speaking to anyone, according to Age UK. With ongoing restrictions and social distancing measures, these figures are on the rise.

BCfm, a community radio station based in Easton, wants to ensure that as many people as possible are able to access a way of linking to the wider city and beyond.

Patrick Hart, station manager at BCfm says: “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.”

BCfm is working with a number of groups and charities to distribute the radios, including 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 Silversound team.

Any other organisations in Bristol who support people over 50 are asked to get in touch and let the team know where radios are needed. They can email marcus.smith@bcfm.org.uk.

Source: https://www.bristol247.com/news-and-features/news/free-dab-radios-offered-to-over-50s-in-bristol-to-help-combat-loneliness/