NLive Radio has launched a fundraising appeal as it prepares to become an independent community organisation.
The Northampton-based station, known as “The Station That Loves Northampton”, is seeking support from listeners, local businesses and community groups to secure its future after more than a decade of funding from the University of Northampton.
NLive Radio has been supported by the university since its launch in 2016, but due to changes in higher education funding, it will now prioritise spending on educational delivery and student experience.
The University has welcomed the station’s plans to continue independently and agreed to support the transition. The fundraising campaign is to help cover costs such as new studio premises, equipment moves, licence fees, technology upgrades and essential operations.
NLive Radio is encouraging both one-off donations and small monthly contributions to help create a sustainable future.
Station Manager Rebecca Steers, who has led the station for over seven years, said the station has been at the heart of local communities, supporting charities, events and local musicians, and giving many people opportunities in broadcasting. she added that the station now needs Northampton’s help to secure the future of local radio.
All presenters are volunteers, and the station expects to become fully volunteer-run. New volunteers are being recruited to support operations and content production.
Ofcom has recently granted NLive Radio a five-year licence extension, allowing it to broadcast until 2031, but the station says community support is now needed for its continued operation.
Find out more at nlive.com.
