Across the UK, community radio stations play an extraordinary role ā not just in broadcasting, but in transforming lives. On World Radio Day we wanted to spotlight four of the outstanding radio stations that have been recognised through our Princess Royal Training Awards for their excellent training programmes and commitment to skills development: Gateway Community Media, Reprezent Radio, East Coast FM, and Sheppey Matters (Sheppey FM). What unites them is more than radio; itās their dedication to training for productivity, inclusion, and social impact – values at the heart of the City & Guilds Foundation.
š Gateway Community Media
Two-time Award winner, Gateway Community Media is a local community radio station based in Basildon which reflects the interests, tastes, backgrounds, cares and concerns of the local community. Awarded in 2020 and 2023, they have developed robust ināhouse media training designed specifically for unemployed and hardātoāreach groups, including mental health support and opportunities that lead directly into volunteering, education, or employment. Since 2020, they have trained over 500 people, with 100 unemployed participants moving into work ā a powerful example of skills development driving community and economic impact. Find out more about Gateway Community Media here.
š Reprezent Radio
Reprezent Radio awarded in 2018 is based in South London. Known for their Sounds of Young London scheme, they offering handsāon media training to disadvantaged young people. The programme has helped many move into employment and attracted interest from major global brands – showcasing the power of inclusive training to unlock talent and raise aspirations. You can watch a video case study which shows behind the scenes at Reprezent Radio here.
š East Coast FM
This awardāwinning Scottish station has achieved the Princess Royal Training Award standard three times ā in 2017, 2018 and 2023. With a longāstanding commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, they offer training to disabled people, vulnerable adults, and school children with additional challenges. Since 2017, 15 people trained every year and 32% of staff registered disabled (compared to the BBCās 8%), they demonstrate how inclusive training not only uplifts individuals but also strengthens organisational performance and community reach. You can find out more about East Coast FM here.
š Sheppey Matters (Sheppey FM)
Awarded in 2022, Sheppey FM offers extensive training programmes for people of all abilities and disabilities, including youth training, opportunities for adults with complex needs, and accessible volunteering. Their work supporting those most in need earned them not only the Princess Royal Training Award but also a Special Commendation, recognising their exemplary inclusion model. Ā With over 10,000 listeners, training is provided to 30 adult and 300 youth volunteers per year. You can find out more about Sheppey Matters here.
Training at its best
One of the defining strengths of the Princess Royal Training Awards is the remarkable breadth of organisations recognised each year – spanning different sizes, sectors, and types of training programmes. From small community organisations to major national employers, the Awards celebrate excellence wherever it happens, united by a shared commitment to impactful skills development. This diversity is reflected annually in the range of recipients, with organisations of all types recognised for successfully linking training to meaningful performance and social outcomes. All four stations exemplify what happens when organisations invest in skills that build confidence, capability, and community resilience. Their programmes donāt just teach technical skills – they reduce inequality, open doors for underrepresented groups, and empower people who often face barriers to opportunity. This is training at its best: inclusive, impactful and transformational. The City & Guilds Foundation is proud to celebrate these organisations for the difference they make every day – on air and beyond. Our Princess Royal Training Awards are open for applications until 20 March 2026. To find out more click here.