As millions of people isolate themselves due to the coronavirus, BBC Radio Lancashire and Merseyside has teamed up with a loneliness charity and radio manufacturers and retailers to offer free DAB radios to the most vulnerable aged over 70.

The giveaway is part of the BBC’s nationwide Make A Difference campaign, which was launched in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

Run in conjunction with charity WaveLength across all 39 BBC local radio stations in England it is aimed at connecting communities.WaveLength was established 80 years ago and provides media technology to those who have become lonely through a variety of circumstances including the death of a loved one, illness or injury, disability, domestic abuse or moving away from friends and family.

The BBC’s other partners in the initiative have donated thousands of DAB radios to be given to vulnerable people aged over 70. Since Monday March 30, anyone can nominate someone for a free radio by completing an online application form at www.wavelength.org.uk/radiohero. Radios have been donated by Argos, Currys PC World, John Lewis & Partners, Pure and Roberts Radio; Duracell UK will provide batteries.

Tony Hall, the Director-General of the BBC, said that local radio is a lifeline and a companion for people who are isolating.“We want everyone who needs access to the radio to have it, that’s why we’re giving away DAB radios,” he said, “I’m proud we’ve been able to coordinate this initiative with our partners who have been so generous in offering their resources.”

Tim Leech, Chief Executive of WaveLength, says: “WaveLength has been fighting loneliness for the last 80 years. We are delighted to come together with all partners to help provide radios to those over 70s most in need. This is what Wavelength was born to do!”

Research on behalf of digital radio brand Pure for World Radio Day 202 showed that on average one in four people go days without speaking to anyone. That figure is now expected to be higher, especially among the older population, due to the guidance on isolation and social distancing.

Make A Difference aims to work as a “virtual community notice board”, linking together those who want to give help with those in need. Since it started, the BBC’s local radio stations have been receiving more than 8,000 calls a day from members of the public.More here: bbc.co.uk/makeadifference