2018-11-29 15:42:34
When a 91 year old man with learning disabilities takes to the airwaves next week he’ll have been living his dream of being a radio presenter for over 18 years.
Alan, who is supported by Hft, plays a key role on Radio 119 and was one of the first people supported by the charity to take to the station in 2001, which operates in partnership with Bradford-based community radio station BCB Radio.
The radio stalwart, who has carried out more than 460 interviews during his broadcasting stint, works in a group of ten people supported by the charity. Together they research interviews based on topical news, issues and challenges relevant to people with learning disabilities for a show broadcasted every fortnight. Interviews range from pop stars to inclusive health and leisure organisations.
Thanks to his wide breadth of general knowledge and interest in current affairs, Alan is heavily involved in sourcing interviewees and researching and devising questions for the regular slot. Alan frequently introduces the show and has also enjoyed interviewing several prominent people during his many years on the radio, including Girls Aloud star Kimberley Walsh.
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Taking on the 12 mile journey from Keighley independently several times a week, Alan attends the station in central Bradford to socialise with friends and take in local events with other Radio 119 team members.
Monday (3 December) marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities, with this year’s theme focusing on empowering people with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality. Reflecting on his own achievements, Alan said:
“I’m proud to work on Radio 119, it’s my favourite thing. I love doing the show, especially meeting new people and seeing my co-workers every week. Introducing the show is always the highlight of my work on the radio.”
Sian Forse, Team Leader at an Hft Bradford service, said:
“Since its inception in 2001, Radio 119 has always provided a brilliant opportunity for people supported by Hft to air their views and participate in all aspects of running a radio station.
“I’ve seen first-hand how dedicated and committed Alan is, and how interviewing and presenting on Radio 119 has given him a sense of purpose and boosted his confidence enormously.”
Hft currently supports more than 2,500 people with learning disabilities across the country. This includes supporting people with learning disabilities to live independently in their own homes, providing employment services to help people develop skills and experience for work and helping people to pursue hobbies, make new friends and get involved in their local communities.
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
Location: Hft Bradford
