New year, new start for local hospital radio

Roch Valley Radio Studio One

Roch Valley Radio, previously known as Birch Radio, broadcasts 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to patients and is run solely with the support of volunteers.

In February 2014 we published a news article, ‘Save our Station’, as the hospital radio service, now based at Fairfield General Hospital and previously at Birch Hill, which was in danger of closing down due to a lack of volunteers willing to run and manage the station.

From the queries and interest of the local community generated from the article, the station now has a new committee, board of trustees and new volunteers. However, the station needs more volunteers to fill a variety of roles.

David Murphy, the new Chairman of Roch Valley Radio, said: “I’m delighted to take on the new role as Chairman of Roch Valley Radio; the station is a vital part in supporting patients wellbeing whilst they’re in hospital. Some patients are fortunate enough to have family and friends visit their bedsides during visiting hours, the rest of the time and for those patients who may not have anybody else close to them, the hospital radio is a link to a friendly face, a conversation and gives you the opportunity to listen to favourite memorable music.”

The station, which is a registered charity, broadcasts via the Hospedia television and radio service at each bedside unit and online. The service is free for all patients, staff and visitors.

David added: “We’re now looking for new volunteers that can support the growth of the radio station within the hospital. If you’re able to donate a few hours of your time each week or month it would be a huge support for our cause. We have lots of roles available from bedside request collectors, fundraising, co-presenters, presenters or just a friendly face.

"If you’re interested in music or have an interest you think other people would love to hear we’re looking for new presenters to host their own radio shows."

All volunteers are supported and trained on using the studio equipment.

Potential volunteers can meet the team and discuss any queries at an Open Day that is being held at Fairfield Hospital on Saturday 10 January between 10-2pm in the studios.