Hospital Radio

What hospital radio involves

Hospital radio stations are run by volunteers who create and broadcast programmes for patients, staff and visitors. Many NHS hospitals in the UK have their own station, typically broadcasting a mix of music, requests, interviews and local information. Some stations now stream online or produce podcasts alongside traditional broadcasts, and a growing number use social media to connect with listeners beyond the wards.

As a volunteer, you might find yourself presenting shows, selecting music, interviewing guests, handling technical equipment or visiting wards to collect song requests from patients. The work may appeal to people who enjoy radio and want to contribute something to their community. You will usually be part of a small team, so there is a social side to it as well. Many volunteers stay involved for years.

Who can volunteer

Most hospital radio stations welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. You do not need previous broadcasting experience. Stations typically provide their own training on equipment, presentation skills and how to interact with patients.

You will normally need to be at least 16 or 18, depending on the station. Because you will be entering a hospital environment, you may need to go through a DBS check, particularly if your role involves direct patient contact. Some stations also require basic health and safety training. Many ask for a regular time commitment, often a few hours each week, so they can plan schedules reliably.

If you have particular skills in audio production, journalism or music programming, these can be useful. Enthusiasm and reliability are highly valued alongside any technical background.

DBS Check Guide

Not sure if you need a DBS check for volunteering? Answer a few questions about the role and find out what level of check is needed, how to apply, and how long it takes.

Try our DBS Check Guide free, here on this site →

Getting started

The Hospital Broadcasting Association is the main membership body for hospital radio in the UK, though not all stations are members. Their website lists member stations by region, making it straightforward to find one near you. You can also contact your local hospital directly and ask whether they have a radio station and how to apply.

The application process varies. Some stations hold open days or taster sessions. Others ask you to fill in a form and attend an informal interview. Once accepted, you will usually shadow experienced volunteers before taking on your own duties.

Training covers the basics:

• how to use the mixing desk
• microphone technique
• programme structure
• how to speak with patients on the wards

The learning curve depends on the station and your starting point, but most people pick up enough to contribute within a few weeks.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

What you get from it

Hospital radio gives you practical experience with broadcasting equipment and live presentation. If you are considering a career in radio, television or audio production, it can be a useful addition to your CV. Some broadcasters have cited hospital radio as part of their early experience in the industry.

University courses, podcasts and online platforms now offer other routes into broadcasting. Hospital radio remains one option among several, and it still provides practical experience that can be difficult to replicate elsewhere. Beyond any career benefits, you may develop skills in teamwork, communication and technical production that transfer to other areas of work and life.

There is also the straightforward satisfaction of doing something useful. Patients in hospital can spend long stretches with little to do. A song request, a friendly voice or a local news update can lift someone's day. Volunteers often say this sense of purpose is what keeps them coming back.

You may also meet people who share your interest in radio. The volunteer base tends to be a mix of ages and backgrounds, which can make for good company and lasting friendships.

Volunteering in a hospital environment can sometimes be emotionally challenging. Most stations provide some form of support, whether through mentorship from experienced volunteers or simply a team culture where people look out for one another. It is worth asking about this when you apply.

Practical points to consider

Hospital radio is unpaid voluntary work. Volunteers do not receive a wage, but some stations may cover travel expenses. Check with the station before you start.

Shifts often take place in the evenings or at weekends, since many volunteers have other jobs or studies. This can suit people looking for a regular commitment outside normal working hours.

You will be working in a hospital, so you need to be comfortable around patients who may be unwell or elderly. Ward visits require sensitivity and the ability to chat naturally with people you have never met.

If you are receiving benefits and thinking about volunteering, the rules allow you to do voluntary work while claiming most benefits, provided you remain available for paid work where that is a condition of your claim. GOV.UK has guidance on volunteering while on benefits if you want to check the details for your situation.

Hospital radio will not suit everyone. The hours can be unsociable, the equipment sometimes dated, and the audience small. But for those who enjoy radio and want to help others, it remains a worthwhile way to spend your time.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our DBS Check Guide lets you not sure if you need a DBS check for volunteering? Answer a few questions about the role and find out what level of check is needed, how to apply, and how long it takes. Try it now →