To date, our community radio station Preston FM has achieved significant success: in its work with individual beneficiaries; local organisations; and the listening public as whole. Preston FM now employs five full-time staff, has engaged and trained over 250 volunteers and assisted 400 local organisations with their work. The successful operation of 4 month-long broadcasts, as well as internet radio has attracted an estimated 45,000 listeners.

Using community radio as a tool, the broad aim of the radio station is to contribute to regeneration and improved community cohesion and capacity. Preston FM provides training and development opportunities for local people, based on radio and media skills but also building a wide range of other skills including literacy, numeracy, ICT, self-confidence, self-esteem, communication and team working

One of its great strengths to date has been its success in reaching individuals who are otherwise disengaged from learning. The “hook” of involvement in radio production and broadcasting is a powerful way of engaging people in informal learning, and the station has had considerable success in acting as a stepping stone for beneficiaries moving on to employment or to further, more formal, training.