New Volunteers Crucial for Future of Visually Impaired Audio Service

The individual leading an audio news service designed for people with visual impairments has stated that an increased number of volunteers is essential to ensure the continued existence of the service, which one recipient characterized as “irreplaceable.” This audio publication, known as Stafford & Stone, distributes local news content on memory sticks to over 100 subscribers without any cost. Mike Hall, the chairman, expresses pride in the organization’s 43-year legacy but harbors concerns about its longevity, noting a decline of 600 listeners over the past two decades. He emphasized, “We need young blood, none of us are getting younger,” adding that “more volunteers are crucial, particularly on the management side.” Mr. Hall recalled a time when over 500 talking newspapers operated nationwide, yet the Talking News Federation reports that only half of that figure remains active today. The Stafford & Stone Talking Newspaper operates entirely on self-generated funds, primarily sustained by bequests from dedicated listeners. Nevertheless, the chairman of the organization acknowledges that an aging subscriber base represents one of its significant challenges. He explained, “When we moved over to digital working, we lost quite a few people then,” and further noted, “and of course we’ve got competition from people like BBC Local Radio.” Alison Cardy, who experienced sight loss later in life, is a devoted listener to the service. She expressed her enjoyment of the poetry, jokes, and general conversation, in addition to the news content. With a smile, she remarked, “You recognise the voices and feel like you know the characters.” She has regularly conveyed her gratitude through thank you messages to the committed volunteer team. She conveyed that it was “very sad” to learn of the substantial decline in subscriber numbers over the past two decades. Mrs. Cardy has advocated for the service via Cannock and District Ladies Probus and indicated her willingness to volunteer for the talking newspaper if her physical condition permitted. She confessed, “I’d be lost without it,” and urged prospective volunteers to participate. For updates, follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.