The communities wished to reverse the fortunes of their area and bring about positive social change in the face of high profile and negative media coverage.

The communities of Seedley and Langworthy in Salford have worked hard in recent years to reverse the fortunes of their area and bring about positive social change in the face of high profile and negative media coverage.

Utilising a wide range of regeneration initiatives, they have succeeded in uniting communities and ensuring that the inhabitants of the area are at the forefront of the changes being made, ably supplementing the physical regeneration taking place with essential social and recreational initiatives.

Seedley and Langworthy FM is one such project which has provided training, opportunity and most importantly, a voice for the local population.

Seedley and Langworthy FM began in December 2001 with a steering group of residents to deliver 4 community radio broadcasts following the successful Radio Regen Salford project. Funds were raised for equipment and programme times promoted. The first broadcast took place from beneath the stairs at the local community centre.

Over 180 local residents got involved. This project encouraged more residents back into training and education through a route which was enjoyable and beneficial to the wider community. The broadcasts were a voice for the community and enabled local agencies to advertise their services. Local councillors also came on air.

Over 500 community members have contributed or been involved in the radio station, many finding that a new career path opened up to them. Skills in the technical side of broadcasting, project management and planning abilities have been acquired. Local companies have approached the station for advertising opportunities.

The station bought its own transmitter in 2004, making it an independent concern. There has been an unprecedented drop in crime during broadcasts.This project improved communications and built a sense of community within a highly deprived area. Exploitation of the opportunity built individual confidence, skills and employability.

The community, local agencies

Partners:

 Budget : £19,000

Renew Northwest
info@RENEW.co.uk

/12/2001

case

Urban Policy > Social inclusion & integration > Community development

Capacity building, Support for local groups