On the day that schools throughout England will close indefinitely, Ocean Youth Radio, a community radio station based in Torbay, is offering a lifeline to keep local people connected, tackle loneliness and provide a platform for young people to take social action.
Sound Communities CIC, who helped young people set up Ocean Youth Radio, will support their young producers online to develop live radio shows and podcasts with digital imaging to engage young listeners.
Kate Rudman, Director, Sound Communities CIC said: “We are calling out for young people to get involved in programming and making content to share with the wider community. Radio has always been a way of communicating and connecting people – especially in difficult times. Technology today means we have ways of both creating and sharing content even when we are socially isolated. We are very proud that our young people are leading this initiative using online technology to tackle loneliness. It’s a great opportunity for them to show how their skills can have an impact on others.”
Youth Team Leader, Ricardo Burt, is working with Ocean Youth Radio producers to create content for Shipwreck Radio on Ocean Youth. A blog space is up and running for young people to contribute programme ideas and the first broadcast is planned for next week.
“Radio and music have a unique way of connecting young people together. From all different backgrounds. Within these challenging times we face, it’s crucial for young people to stay connected and not feel isolated or lonely, whilst being confined to their homes for a vast majority of the day.”
“Our young presenters have been integral into taking a negative situation and turning it into a positive and using the medium of radio to help connect all young people together and break down the barriers of social isolation. As a year 12 student, I face much uncertainty within my school education due to Covid-19. However, being able to share my skills and experience within the radio industry, I hope to help and support other young people so that their voices can be heard. And young people can connect with one another so that we all get through these tough times together.”
Ricardo Burt, Studio Producer and Youth Team Leader, Ocean Youth Radio.
Any young person wanting to get involved should contact Sound Communities to find out more by emailing mike@soundcommunities.co.uk.
The project is supported through funding from the National Community Lottery Fund, Paul Hamlyn Foundation, Devon Community Fund, Sanctuary Housing and Co-Op Foundation.
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