Speakers at our meeting on 29th September

SHIRLEY LUDFORD is not only the station manager at Swindon 105.5  but also Deputy Lieutenant of Wiltshire 

Guest speaker at our meeting in September, Shirley spoke passionately about the Community work of the station, A Queen's Award for Voluntary Service organisation, Launched in 2008,its presenters, admin and technical teams are all volunteers, working together to provide a radio service for Swindon which broadcasts 24 hours a day..

SWINDON 105.5 provides inclusive and accessible facilities and training opportunities to individuals of all ages and abilities. This gives them a chance to learn new skills and share their knowledge and experience with others; building their confidence and abilities which can lead to wider opportunities. The station is now hoping to introduce new channels for specific groups in Swindon.

Shirley introduced us to ASIF ROUFFI who worked as a Journalist in Afghanistan for 20 yrs. He also worked with the British forces on forces radio.

Due to the risk of reprisals from the Taliban Asif was brought to the UK with his wife and small children. Initially his older children had to stay behind.  They were  in hiding as Asif was considered a spy.

The family spent a year in a hotel. Not glamorous or luxurious but challenging and difficult for a young family with little room to play and run around. Asif and his family are grateful and pleased to be safe; his older children have now joined him. His daughters are getting an education and will go to college which would have been denied them in Afghanistan. Traditional role of women in Afghanistan is home based so even his sons are having to learn new ways,

Asif volunteers with 101. 5 Improving his English and  working as a journalist with Shirley and the team. There are several Afghan families in the local area. Asif hopes the proposed  new Chanel will help connect the community and provide opportunities to learn English and help integrate people into the community

Funded through grants, donations, and fundraising activities, Swindon 105.5   also offers advertising and programme sponsorship to local businesses at affordable rates. It is a Not For Profit community broadcasting organisation licensed by OFCOM.