Radio 1 Local Heroes campaign highlights short-term volunteering

A survey of 1,000 young people showed that over 50% said they didn’t have time to get involved in the causes they cared about. Now BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra are planning to inspire their listeners to get involved in volunteering opportunities which don’t involve a big time commitment.

Local Heroes week will run across both channels from Sunday 18 to Sunday 25 April. DJ Tim Westwood will become a “Local Hero” for the week, trying out a different taster volunteering challenge each day.

Anna Bowman, Executive Producer, Radio 1 and 1Xtra Campaigns, says: “Our research suggests that many young people are interested in volunteering but don’t have the time.

“We want to show that volunteering can be fun, rewarding and doesn’t have to be a long-term commitment.

“We hope that Tim’s volunteering antics will inspire some of our listeners to become a Local Hero in their own community.”

Some people might think Westwood is an unlikely volunteer, but I know he gives up his time for causes he cares about. I’ve seen him play for free at a Christmas party for young people affected by HIV – and they got so into it that the wall had to be replastered… Fact!

Westwood’s not the only Radio 1 DJ to volunteer… Nihal, Annie Mac, and Mary Anne Hobbs have all played for free at the vinspired Lake of Stars festival in Malawi and loved it. Plus, DJs from both stations were involved in the Bullyproof and Body Image campaigns.

If you’re inspired to get involved, find an opportunity near you on vinspired.com. You could even get into a festival for free in exchange for giving up a bit of your time!