Broadcasting Co-op Aims to Combat Ageism Empowers Seniors
LLARC (Later Life Audio and Radio Cooperative) is a pioneering co-operative that is committed to combatting ageism and empowering seniors within the realm of radio and broadcasting. Founded in 2019, this UK-based network has quickly grown into a powerful force for change.
Together with age-inclusive radio stations, third-sector organizations, local authorities, and academic researchers, LLARC strives to cultivate positive perceptions of age and aging. Through their supporting circles, which address various areas such as strategy, finance, production, and training, LLARC ensures a well-rounded approach to achieving its goals.
Funding, a crucial aspect for their continued success, is a top priority as they actively explore strategic bids and develop a comprehensive business plan. Despite having no paid staff, LLARC remains resolute in its mission, relying on donations and funding to carry out its important work.
With a membership of around 50 individuals, LLARC aims to foster an intergenerational community where all participants have an equal say in governance.
By challenging stereotypes and misconceptions about older people and encouraging their active involvement in society, LLARC strives to create a more inclusive and age-friendly future.
Sharing best practices within the audio and radio communities, this ground-breaking co-operative aims to dismantle ageist attitudes and assumptions, paving the way for a more enlightened society.
LLARC (Later Life Audio and Radio Cooperative)
LLARC (Later Life Audio and Radio Cooperative) is a UK-wide co-operative that was founded in 2019 with the aim of challenging ageism and giving older people a voice in the field of radio and broadcasting. The co-operative works closely with age-inclusive radio stations, third-sector organizations, local authorities, and academic researchers to promote positive views of age and aging.
LLARC operates through a network of supporting circles, each focusing on different aspects of the co-operative’s operations, such as strategy, finance, production, and training. This organizational structure ensures that all key areas are given due attention and expertise.
Funding and Priorities
One of the major priorities for LLARC is securing funding to sustain and expand its operations. The co-operative is currently exploring strategic bids and putting together a comprehensive business plan to present to potential funders and supporters.
LLARC relies heavily on donations and funding from various sources, including individuals, organizations, and grants, to continue its important work of challenging ageism and empowering older people in the radio and broadcasting industry.
Membership and Governance
LLARC currently has approximately 50 members, and it aims to be cross-generational in its membership. The co-operative believes in the importance of inclusivity and diversity, recognizing that people of all ages have valuable contributions to make.
The governance of LLARC is egalitarian, with each member having an equal say in the decision-making process. This inclusive approach ensures that the co-operative’s actions and initiatives truly represent the needs and aspirations of its members.
Challenging Stereotypes and Misconceptions
A core goal of LLARC is to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about older people.
The co-operative firmly believes in the potential, talent, and active participation of older individuals in the community. By showcasing the diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives of older people in the radio and broadcasting industry, LLARC aims to break down barriers and promote a more inclusive and age-positive society.
Sharing Best Practices
LLARC recognizes the importance of sharing best practices within the audio and radio communities to confront ageist attitudes and assumptions. The co-operative actively seeks out collaboration and engagement with likeminded organizations and individuals who share the goal of promoting positive views of age and aging.
By sharing experiences, insights, and successful approaches, LLARC aims to create a supportive and empowering environment for older people in the radio and broadcasting industry.
Empowering Seniors Through Broadcasting
LLARC empowers seniors by providing them with a platform in the field of radio and broadcasting. The co-operative offers opportunities for training and skill development, ensuring that older individuals have access to the resources they need to thrive in this industry.
LLARC encourages active involvement in content creation and production, giving older people the chance to share their stories, talents, and perspectives with a wider audience.
Collaboration and Partnerships
Collaboration is a key aspect of LLARC’s approach. The co-operative works closely with age-inclusive radio stations, third-sector organizations, local authorities, and academic researchers to promote positive views of age and aging.
By forming partnerships and collaborating with various stakeholders, LLARC aims to amplify its impact and reach a broader audience. Together, these collaborations strive to challenge ageism and create a more age-friendly society.
Strategies for Success
LLARC’s focus on strategic bids and business planning plays a crucial role in securing the funding needed to sustain its operations. The co-operative identifies viable funding opportunities and develops comprehensive business plans that showcase the value and impact of its work.
Additionally, LLARC leverages the expertise of its supporting circles, which specialize in different aspects of the co-operative’s operations, to ensure that its strategies are well-informed and effective.
Positive Impact on Aging Community
LLARC’s work has a significant positive impact on the aging community.
By challenging misconceptions and promoting active participation, the co-operative empowers seniors and combats ageism. Older individuals who engage with LLARC’s initiatives gain a sense of purpose, connection, and fulfillment, while society as a whole benefits from their contributions.
Through its efforts, LLARC is driving meaningful change and fostering a society that values people of all ages.
Future Plans and Expansion
Looking ahead, LLARC has ambitious plans to continue expanding its network and reach. The co-operative aims to involve more radio and broadcasting organizations in its mission, encouraging them to embrace age-inclusive practices and create opportunities for older individuals.
Additionally, LLARC plans to develop partnerships with organizations in other countries to combat ageism on an international scale. By sharing expertise and collaborating globally, LLARC aspires to make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of older people around the world.
