Radio station wins county award for supporting the community during the pandemic

A radio station run by the University of Northampton has been recognised for the vital contribution it has played during the coronavirus pandemic.

NLive Radio has been awarded a Rose of Northamptonshire Award, after it was nominated in the Unsung Heroes of Northamptonshire initiative.

The initiative, which was launched by the Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, The High Sheriff of Northamptonshire and Northamptonshire County Council, invites the public to nominate individuals or organisations deserving of recognition.

The station has taken several proactive steps to support the community during the pandemic, as Station Manager, Martin Steers, explains: “Since the first lockdown, NLive Radio has raised awareness of how local businesses, community groups, charities and individuals have responded to what’s going on across Northampton, and how everyone has come together to support each other.

“We’ve increased the number of hours presenters are on air, to try and make sure there is always a friendly voice on the radio, to keep people company, entertained and engaged with Northampton. This is especially important for those who are isolated and lonely, with more hours from Northampton, for all of the people of Northampton than any other radio station.

“All our presenters are volunteers, who currently broadcast from home in and around Northampton, and are all passionate about the town.”

The station also ran a series of free on-air messages of support from local businesses and organisations to wish their customers, users and supporters well, to encourage them to stay safe, as well as thank the NHS and other key workers for all that they are doing.

A Covid advertising package, with 12 weeks for the price of four, was also launched to support businesses during this time.

Funding from the Northamptonshire Community Foundation and the Postcode Community Trust, the station was able to buy 300 radios, with the majority given away free via local organisations to those who are lonely, isolated and in need.