Community radio organisations come together for an all-day symposium at the DCMS

The Community Media Association and the UK Community Radio Network have come together to coordinate an all-day symposium to discuss the future of the community radio sector.

The event, which will be hosted in the London office of the Department for Culture, Media & Sport on 26th March, will bring together decision-makers from community radio stations with key external stakeholders.

Topics to be covered are expected to include a panel discussion on the future of community radio, presentations from external bodies including funders and organisations from the charitable and third sector, and representatives from government and Ofcom will speak about how they work with the sector.

Terry Lee, chair of the Community Media Association, said: “Community radio plays a vital role in fostering connectivity and amplifying diverse voices across the UK. As we gather for this symposium, the CMA acknowledges the critical juncture at which the future of community radio stands.

“In navigating the challenges and opportunities before us, we recognise the development and impact of our sector in the last 40 years. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Department for Culture, Media & Sport for their invaluable support in making this event possible – underscoring their commitment to community radio, supporting its continued growth and impact.”

Martin Steers, director of the UK Community Radio Network, added: “With us coming up to 20 years of licensed community radio, and with all the changes in the industry in that time, now is such a vital time to bring people together.

“This symposium is a great opportunity to bring significant decision-makers from across government and beyond, alongside community radio managers and practitioners to discuss the fundamentals of how important what we do is for our communities, and what support is needed for us to succeed for another 20 years.”

Further details about the event will be confirmed in due course. In the meantime, anyone who would like to attend should contact office@communitymedia.uk to notify the organisers of their interest.