Community Radio Awards return for third year

The Community Radio Awards are to return for a third year, celebrating the best of the community radio sector.

Volunteers and stations from around the country are being encouraged to begin collating the best of their output from the past year, and consider those team members deserving of special recognition.

The certificates will be awarded at an evening event at Sheffield Hallam University, at a venue opposite the Community Media Association’s conference, on September 15.

Martin Steers, awards chair, said: “We had more than 350 entries from 70 stations last year, and I am constantly amazed by the breadth and depth of broadcasting from the UK’s community radio stations.

“The awards provide an opportunity for sharing of best practice, developing ideas, and most of all, recognising the great impact community radio has on its local communities.”

Philippa Sawyer, programme director at Wycombe Sound, last year’s station of the year, says the award has had a truly positive impact on the team. Six months on, I think the biggest impact has been on our own team. The award has made us realise what can be achieved by working together, rather than as individuals just coming in to do our own programmes.

“It has added value to our brand, both internally and out in the community. We are attracting high quality volunteers who really want to make a commitment – vital as anyone who runs a volunteer-led organisation knows. It also shows to stakeholders that we are serious about providing a quality
service.”

The submission process will take place online, and there is no limit to the number of entries a station or individual can submit.

Submissions will open in early May, and run until the end of June. The shortlist will be announced in mid-August.

2018 Categories:

 Community Development Project
 Station of the Year
 Digital or RSL Station Of The Year
 Male Presenter
 Female Presenter
 Community Show
 Live Event or Outside Broadcast
 Entertainment Show
 Speech & Journalism
 Arts & Creative Radio
 Specialist Music Show
 Sports Show
 Volunteer
 Young Person (Under 25)
 Sage Person (Over 60)
 Newcomer (new to radio in last 12 months)
 Innovation Award
 Podcast