Ofcom has rejected 58 applications for money from the Community Radio Fund whilst granting 14 stations with a share of a quarter of a million pounds.
The regulator also reminded stations the reasons for the fund is not to cover things such as rent, utility bills or capital expenditure, but to help provide long-term financial security.
Being clear on the application regarding current money in the bank, how the money will be spent, and a basic understanding of employment law was also flagged up as being important parts of the submission – something some stations failed to show.
Ofcom said: “Some unsuccessful applications suggested roles where the post-holder had a huge range of responsibilities including volunteer management, programming and even presenting daily programmes, alongside revenue development.
“These were often applications for Station Manager posts. The Panel was unlikely to favour such applications because the post-holder was unlikely to devote sufficient time to income generation, therefore making the investment unsustainable.”
The highest award of £28,000 went to Radio Plus to hire a Community Engagement and Business Development Officer, whilst Zetland FM was awarded £9,000 for a Community Engagement Co-ordinator.
Funding also went to Nevis Radio, Spice FM, Asian Star, Frome FM, Leeds Dance Community Radio, Reform Radio, Rossendale Radio, Rother Radio, Somer Valley FM, Wythenshawe FM, Erewash Sound and Resonance FM.
