The award-winning non-profit online radio station BA1 Radio has launched its annual fundraising week, raising money to support another year of operation.
The station runs online 24 hours a day and is manned by volunteers who rely on donations to run the service.
The station which was set up in February last year to provide training in radio broadcasting and employment skills, has become a helpline and information point for the community especially since lockdown.
Programmes such as the Daily Good Show hosted by local lifestyle blogger Sarah Baker have highlighted the work being done throughout the community by individuals and organisations to help each other through difficult times.
The station also provides opportunities for volunteers to get involved in web and graphic design, social media, video and broadcasting.
During the first three weeks of their new shows, BA1 Radio saw listener hours quadruple and unique listener figures rise by 200%.
Station Manager Luke Nix said: “During lockdown we have been airing twelve hours of presented radio every weekday to keep Bath company at home.
“We’ve also supported hundreds of local organisations in sharing their work from creating jingles for charities to signposting listeners to local help and resources, we’ve been there every step of the way.
“It was important to adapt the station for lockdown for our volunteers as for many, radio is real escapism.
“Under these unusual circumstances, we know that our volunteers are grateful to have been able to continue their work with us from home and in turn, creating a place for listeners of all ages to find out about local news and information to help them during lockdown.”
The online radio station needs help from the public to raise £3,000 towards their running costs for another year.
“Every penny counts and we’re hoping that Bath can support us by getting involved in our fun events,” said Samuel Maggs, Chair of BA1 Radio
“We’ll need to secure funding for the coming year and find our feet in this new normal. Then look to a return to delivering full training, including more training programmes. Meanwhile, we can continue to increase our radio output from new volunteers.”
Fundraising week kicked off on Friday evening with a 24 hour radio show presented by volunteers.
Today, Monday 27th July, will see the release of the BA1 Radio Mockumentary about reopening the studio to volunteers post lockdown.
On Wednesday 29th July, the station will be offering a baking delivery day (for Bath residents online) and people can put their orders in now using this form.
Thursday 30th July will see volunteers hosting a Virtual Quiz Night, which you can sign up for here.
More information on all the events being held during the fundraiser can be found here: ba1.radio/fundraising-week.
