Homebuilder’s grant received loud and clear by Stafford broadcasting service
Barratt Homes has pledged £1,500 to Hospital Radio Stafford, a volunteer-run charity that enhances the hospital experience for patients at two facilities in Staffordshire.
The contribution from the housebuilder, building in the area at its Poppy Fields and Bertelin Fields developments in Uttoxeter and Stafford, will go towards the broadcasting services at County Hospital in Stafford and Royal Stoke University Hospital.
It will directly support ongoing operational costs, including equipment maintenance, software updates, running costs and training for volunteers, ensuring the station continues to provide valuable services to patients.
Colin Smith MBE, Publicity Officer and Presenter at Hospital Radio Stafford, said: “Our mission is to offer entertainment and friendship to patients.
“Each week, our presenters visit hospital wards to collect music requests from patients and staff members, fostering a personal connection and enhancing the hospital experience.
“Hospital Radio Stafford plays a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of hospital patients by providing entertainment and a sense of connection to the outside world. The station's programming helps alleviate feelings of isolation and anxiety, contributing positively to patient recovery and mental health.”
Hospital Radio Stafford began broadcasting in 1972 from very humble beginnings with donated equipment and a few keen amateurs happy to provide an entertainment service to hospital inpatients in central Staffordshire.
Today, it has two bespoke studios, 16 weekly presenters, and over 40 hours a week of 'live' programmes entertaining inpatients at County Hospital Stafford and Royal Stoke University Hospital, and a streaming service which anyone can listen to anywhere in the UK.
Looking ahead, the charity aims to expand its reach and improve its services by embracing new technologies, recruiting more volunteers, and strengthening community partnerships.
Colin added: “Running costs amount to just over £2,000 a year so we must be mindful of fundraising opportunities, and we are always grateful for very kind donations such as this from Barratt Homes.
“Support for local charities like ours is essential for sustaining community-based services that directly impact residents' lives.”
Barratt Homes’ donation was made as part of its Community Fund scheme via The Barratt Foundation, which is run by its parent company, Barratt Redrow Plc. It is designed to support national and local charities, large and small, across the areas in which the housebuilder operates.
Adrian Evans, Managing Director at Barratt Homes West Midlands, said: “Hospital Radio Stafford provides an entertaining and compassionate service for hospital patients and it’s a valuable asset for the community.
“We are thrilled to provide our support with the Community Fund donation and hope the charity can continue to run its excellent services.”
To find out more about the charity and its volunteering opportunities, visit the website at Hospital Radio Stafford.
