The Black Country Talking Newspaper, which provides audio news to those living with sight loss and other disabilities, is appealing to budding and amateur journalists to join its rank of volunteers. The free service, which is run by sight loss charity Beacon, is a vital life line for the visually impaired community across the region who struggle to access local news. The charity is calling for volunteers to help record, design and produce the weekly service in its Centre in Sedgley, Wolverhampton Road East, WV4 6AZ, once a week.
Beacon CEO, Lisa Cowley, said: “Our dedicated team has been volunteering for over 20-years with one of our oldest members retiring at the age of 95. Naturally people move on and retire, so we are always looking for new people to join the team and inject some fresh ideas and thinking. We are looking for passionate people who enjoy reading and discussing the news.”
For most of the listeners talking news is a weekly highlight and something they look forward to. In addition, it also provides a social link and keeps many people connected to the community.
Richard Westwood, Talking News Subscriber said: ”I always look forward to receiving the talking news because it helps keep me connected to my local community and events. Without the Black Country Talking News my week would be dull, the service always lightens up my week – I am forever grateful.”
Another subscriber, Alan Warner, mentions: “The Talking News is more than just an audio newspaper. It helps keep me in the loop with important developments which affect me. I enjoy the nostalgia section and the sports news which are all personalised to the Black Country.”
Talking News Volunteer, Bryan Gall, added: “We need more volunteers to help us record, edit and organise CD’s before they are sent to our listeners. We have lots of different roles, so don’t worry if you are not tech savvy, we will find a role suited to you. We welcome people of all backgrounds, abilities and age groups.”
Volunteers will be working with like-minded individuals and will be given training and guidance. You will need to commit to 3-hours a week from 9.30am till 12.30pm every Wednesday and will be located at the Beacon Centre in Sedgley, Wolverhampton Road East WV4 6AZ.
Lisa went on to say: “We rely on volunteers across the charity. Without their dedicated work and time, we would not be able to provide our invaluable services to those we support. If you are looking to learn new skills or can spare a few hours every week we would love to hear from you.”
If you are interested in local topics such as sports, news, current affairs, culture and lots more then Talking News will be right up your street. You can contact pdhariwal@beaconvision.org or call 01902 880 111 for more information.