The Rusty Haggis Community Radio is a child-led, non-profit community radio station based in Leicester (Leicestershire), UK, operating as a Community Interest Company (CIC).
Who we support (our beneficiaries): Our primary beneficiaries are children and young people in Leicester and across Leicestershire. This includes school-aged children, young people in youth spaces, those in community hubs, and groups such as home-educated young people. We particularly aim to reach and include underrepresented or less-heard voices, with an emphasis on inclusive participation (including for those with special educational needs or in diverse communities). We also serve the wider local community by amplifying local culture and voices.
How we help them: We empower young people by giving them a real platform to express themselves through radio. This includes:
- Hands-on workshops in schools, community centres, and youth spaces where children learn radio skills (presenting, producing, storytelling, technical aspects).
- Hosting child-led live shows (broadcast daily, e.g., Monday–Friday 8:00–17:00) and on-demand podcasts covering topics like arts, wellbeing, sport, local issues, and creative audio.
- Providing opportunities to create content, build communication and technical skills, collaborate with peers, and share their stories in a safe, supportive environment. Volunteers and young participants help run the station, fostering ownership and leadership.
Why our help matters: In a world where young people's voices can often feel overlooked or drowned out, we build confidence, creativity, communication skills, and a strong sense of belonging and community. By putting children in control of the microphone, we help them develop self-esteem, resilience, and practical life skills that benefit their personal growth, education, and future opportunities. We also strengthen local connections by celebrating Leicestershire's culture and bringing people together through inclusive, positive media—keeping community radio alive as a vital space for connection, learning, and expression.
