The Community Radio Awards are proud to announce the official launch of the 2025 awards, marking not only the 10th Awards, but also celebrating 20 years since the launch of community radio in the UK – making this year’s event more meaningful than ever.
The Community Radio Awards are proud to announce the official launch of the 2025 awards, marking not only the 10th Awards, but also celebrating 20 years since the launch of community radio in the UK – making this year’s event more meaningful than ever.
The submission entry period will officially open on Monday 2nd June and run until Sunday 14th July. As always, entries remain accessible at just £5 per submission.
Building on a decade of growth and feedback from participants and judges alike, this year sees refinements to several existing categories, as well as the introduction of four new categories, recognising the evolving landscape and impact of community radio across the UK.
To support stations, volunteers, and individuals in putting forward their best work, the Community Radio Awards will also be launching a series of Best Practice Guides, created using feedback and insights from judges. In addition, a special online masterclass via Zoom will be held, featuring past winners and current judges, offering tips and insights on crafting standout entries.
The celebrations will culminate in a glittering awards ceremony in Bradford on Saturday 25th October, following the National Community Radio Conference, organised by the UK Community Radio Network. The ceremony will form part of a packed weekend of learning, networking, and celebration for the sector.
Martin Steers, Chair of the Community Radio Awards, said:
"This year is not just about recognising the outstanding work across our sector over the past 12 months — it’s also a time to reflect on two decades of community radio in the UK. We’re thrilled to be heading to Bradford and excited about the new resources and opportunities to help people submit their very best work."
Aiir has also confirmed their continuation as the headline sponsor of the Community Radio Awards to support the sector in celebrating excellence and showcasing best practice.
Victoria Atkin, Aiir’s Operations Manager and director at Radio Newark, said:
"Aiir is proud to support the Community Radio Awards for the sixth consecutive year. With many of our team members coming from radio backgrounds or still actively involved, we truly understand the passion and commitment it takes to run a station. Community radio plays a vital role in connecting and serving local audiences, especially as the wider radio landscape continues to evolve. These awards offer a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the dedication, creativity, and impact of stations across the country”
The same deadline for the awards also applies for the Community Radio Honours scheme for consideration for this year, the honours look to recognise those who have made a significant impact to the community radio sector.
Nominations for the honours can be of any age or experience in regard to community radio. They may have worked within or be connected to the wider sector; they do not need to have been directly associated with a particular station.
The full category list is:
Community Impact Project of the Year
Station of the Year
Presenter of the Year: Woman
Presenter of the Year: Man
Voices of the Community Award
Voices for all award
Live Event or Outside Broadcast of the Year
Entertainment Show of the Year
News, Journalism & Factual Storytelling of the Year
Specialist Content Show of the Year
Arts & Creative Radio of the Year
Specialist Music Show of the Year
Sports Show of the Year
Volunteer of the Year
Young Person or people of the Year (under 25)
Sage Person of the Year (Over 60)
Newcomer of the Year
Digital Content of the Year
Celebrating & Championing Community Radio of the Year
Elections & Political Coverage of the Year
The awards are also open for any business, organisation, or individual who might wish to sponsor a category, and also work with the UK Community Radio Network with the conference and other events on that weekend, also who wish to donate to support the return of the scholarship scheme supporting people in attending.
For more information on the awards, categories, resources, and how to enter, visit: www.communityradioawards.org.uk
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