For almost 50 years, Forest Radio has been a much-loved source of entertainment and companionship, beginning life in 1976 when a group of volunteers set up the station to broadcast to patients and staff at Forest Hospital in Buckhurst Hill. Since then, the station has remained entirely volunteer-run and continues to operate as a registered charity.
Thanks to a £3,976 grant from the Qualis Community Benefit Fund, Forest Radio has now been able to expand its reach and connect with even more people across the community. The funding helped secure new licences needed for the station’s move to DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting), with the new digital service launching in February.
Today, Forest Radio reaches far beyond hospital corridors, bringing music, entertainment and companionship to hospitals, long-term care facilities, homes and care homes across West Essex. Residents in Epping, Harlow and surrounding areas can now tune in via digital radio, with around 1,350 listeners already enjoying the programmes.
The move to DAB is also helping to secure a more sustainable future for the charity. By opening opportunities for advertising and sponsorship, Forest Radio can begin generating income to support its long-term work and continue providing a valued community service for years to come.
Find out more about our Community Benefit Fund here.
