Cat Eccles MP, Member of Parliament for Stourbridge, has welcomed the news that local station Black Country Radio has been awarded £20,000 from the Government’s Community Radio Fund.
The funding, delivered by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and administered by Ofcom, will support the employment of a Community Engagement Officer at the station. Black Country Radio is operated by Waterfront Media CIC and serves communities across Stourbridge and Dudley, providing locally relevant news, information, and community programming.
The Community Radio Fund supports the sustainability of Ofcom-licensed community radio stations, which operate on a not-for-profit basis and provide social value to a specific geographical area or community of interest.
This year the fund saw a significant uplift to £600,000, bringing the total allocation to £1,004,472.90. A total of 47 stations across the UK received awards, with grants ranging from £7,500 to £39,839 and an average award of £21,368.
Cat Eccles MP said:
“Black Country Radio plays a hugely important role in keeping local people informed, connected, and engaged with what is happening across Stourbridge and the wider Dudley borough. Community radio stations are often the first-place residents turn to for trusted local information, particularly during times of change or uncertainty.”
“I am delighted that this funding will support a dedicated Community Engagement Officer, strengthening the station’s ability to work directly with residents, voluntary groups, and local organisations. This investment recognises the real social value that local media provides — giving people a voice and helping to bring communities together.”
“I know first-hand how committed the team at Black Country Radio and Waterfront Media CIC are to serving our community. This funding will help ensure the station can continue to thrive and expand its outreach work so even more residents feel represented and heard.”
ENDS
Photo attached: Cat Eccles MP with Keith Horsefall, Presenter at Black Country Radio
