Radio Hillingdon

The broadcaster provides a 24-hour radio service primarily for patients at The Hillingdon Hospital, residents of care homes, and individuals within the local area Borough of Hillingdon. The station broadcasts music requests and dedications, alongside national and local news, aiming to cater to a wide range of ages. It operates as a registered charity, number 1204015, and is entirely run by volunteers. The broadcaster’s mission is to alleviate sickness, poor health, and old age within the community through its radio service, which is available free of charge within the hospital via the Bedside Entertainment System on Radio Channel 45, on television screens, and online. The station relies entirely on funds raised by its volunteers to cover its daily operational costs, as it receives no funding from the National Health Service. The service provides a vital link for those in care settings and the hospital environment, offering a source of entertainment and connection. The station’s programming includes a variety of shows and hosts. Currently airing is “Care Home Requests with Colin Moore,” followed by “Local History Show with Steve Hickman.” The “Early Evening Show,” hosted by Gavin Chessum, features two hours of music. A significant event is the upcoming “100 Hour Live Marathon,” scheduled from October 4th to October 8th, benefiting “Make-A-Wish UK” and the station itself. This marathon will involve four teams of presenters, each broadcasting live for 25-hour shifts. The teams include Jeff Brown, Dr. Savi Arora, and George Reed; Keith Hotston, Natalie Hobkirk, and Gerard Conway; Raymond Jackson, Graham Harrison, and Trevor Hughes; and Jon Herd, Colin Moore, and Jack Price. The marathon begins October 4th at 7:00 AM and concludes October 11th at 11:00 AM. The broadcaster boasts a history spanning 55 years, having made its first broadcast in December 1970 to patients at Hillingdon Hospital. Over the years, it has evolved from its initial broadcast to become a vital community resource. The station’s longevity and continued operation are a testament to the dedication of its volunteer workforce and the community support it receives. A recent initiative involves a new fundraiser and an interview with Frank Allen of the band The Searchers, highlighting the station’s commitment to engaging with the wider music community and raising funds for charitable causes. The station offers multiple avenues for listeners to connect and support its operations. Listeners can donate directly through the website, contributing to the station’s fundraising efforts. The website utilizes a commission-based system, where purchases made through links on the site benefit the station. The broadcaster actively encourages listeners to utilize QR codes for donations, accessible both on computers and mobile devices. The station's website provides further details on how to listen and support the broadcaster, emphasizing the importance of volunteer contributions and fundraising initiatives to sustain its services.