Tune In for Something Big: Community Radio Day Set to Make Waves

Community radio stations across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are coming together for an unprecedented broadcast event to celebrate the work of the Cornwall Community Media Network (CCMN). On Saturday 1st February 2025, stations will unite for an all-day broadcast showcasing the power of collaboration within the Duchy’s media landscape.

A Network of Collaboration

The CCMN brings together a diverse range of OFCOM-regulated stations, including CHAOS Radio, CHBN, Source FM, Coast FM, Islands FM, and NCB Radio. Supported by BBC Radio Cornwall and The CHAOS Group, the network is dedicated to amplifying local voices and ensuring every corner of the Duchy is represented.

Nathan Hunkin, Director of Digital and Innovation at The CHAOS Group, highlighted their commitment to community development:

“Creating pathways into the world of radio and digital media is a big passion for the CHAOS team. It’s always been our mission to help make positive changes to the communities around us.”

Celebrating the Duchy’s Diverse Voices

The network’s strength lies in its collaborative ethos, encapsulated by The CHAOS Group’s guiding principle: “Community Helping All Of Society.” Mark Sanders, Chairman at CHBN, spoke about the benefits of the partnership:

“Being part of the network is so useful as it has opened up opportunities for us to attract new volunteers, share programming, and support each other to ensure that we all provide the best services we can.”

The CCMN reaches over 100,000 FM listeners and an even wider digital audience, providing cultural programming, local news, and entertainment.

Digital Training and Community Impact

One of CCMN’s standout successes is its Digital Skills Training Bootcamp, which has equipped cohorts with essential radio and digital media skills. Due to its popularity, another Bootcamp is planned for Spring 2025. Participants gain hands-on experience in presenting, content creation, and technical support.

Jade Dunbar, Chair of Source FM, emphasised the professional growth this collaboration has fostered:

“We are creating a more professional talent pool and pooling resources to enhance broadcast quality and reduce costs. The joint efforts strengthen the community radio landscape across Cornwall.”

Local Impact and Opportunities

The CCMN’s community-driven approach also supports important public health campaigns, such as NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly’s “Stay Well in Cornwall this Winter”. The campaign utilised CCMN’s extensive platform to distribute audio interviews, press releases, and visual content, helping residents stay informed and safe.

Bob Bate, Station Manager at Islands FM, praised the network’s shared resources:

“The opportunity to share relevant audio content is particularly welcome. We look forward to monthly meetings, sharing challenges, and hearing solutions from others in the same boat.”

A Resilient Alternative in a Changing Media Landscape

As national brands increasingly dominate local frequencies, CCMN offers a vital alternative focused on hyper-local content. Dave Pascoe, Director and Station Manager at Coast FM, underlined the network’s role in fostering local talent:

“The CCMN offers opportunities for Cornwall’s community radio stations to develop, collaborate, and train – a valued asset in the growth of local radio.”

How to Get Involved

The Community Radio Day broadcast begins at 10:00am across all CCMN stations and can be accessed via FM, online, and mobile apps. For updates on the next Digital Skills Bootcamp, follow @CHAOSRadioUK on social media.

If you would like more information on how the Cornwall Community Media Network can support your community, business, and organisation – or if you’re interested in volunteering at one of their stations – they’d love to hear from you. You can reach them at 01872 228844 or via email at hello@cornwallcommunitymedia.network.