Salford City Radio celebrates double milestone with community award win

Salford City Radio, our community radio station is celebrating 18 years of broadcasting with a vital funding boost, after being named the winner of this year’s Springboard Heroes Awards.

Salford City Radio has been crowned the 2025 Springboard Heroes winner, following a public vote run by housing association Salix Homes. The annual awards celebrate community-led projects that make a difference in Salford.

The station, based at Salford Civic Centre in Swinton, beat out strong competition from local finalists Alberts of Salford and Red Hot Flames to secure the top spot, receiving a £1,000 cash prize to support its programming.

Station manager Jill Bowyer said the recognition couldn’t have come at a better time.

“Winning the Springboard Heroes Award is an incredible boost for everyone at Salford City Radio. This funding comes at a crucial time and will help us continue broadcasting, supporting our volunteers, and serving the community.

“Celebrating our 18th birthday alongside this win makes it even more special, it’s the best present we could ask for.”

Run by volunteers aged between 18 and 80, Salford City Radio provides a platform for diverse voices across the city.

Salix Homes has been a long-time supporter of the station, even running its own programme, Let’s Talk Housing, to engage directly with tenants and share vital updates.

Liam Turner, Chief Executive at Salix Homes, said:

“The Springboard Heroes Awards are all about recognising the groups that go the extra mile to build stronger communities. Salford City Radio has done exactly that.

“They’re more than just a radio station, they’re a lifeline for many. This win, especially as they mark 18 years on the air, is incredibly well deserved.”

Salford City Radio relies on a mix of grants, sponsorship, advertising and community fundraising to keep operating. The station has become a hub of connection and purpose for volunteers, many of whom see the station as a key part of their lives.

The Springboard Heroes funding forms part of Salix Homes’ wider community investment strategy. So far this year, the housing association has awarded more than £33,000 to local groups through its Springboard fund, backing initiatives that reduce isolation, promote wellbeing, and foster stronger neighbourhoods.