Free digital radios for the over-70s in self-isolation

THE BBC is to give free digital radios to the most vulnerable over 70s.

Its local radio stations have teamed up with manufacturers, retailers and a charity for its Make A Difference campaign, launched in the wake of the pandemic.

The move will ensure the most at-risk elderly who are self-isolating have access to news and entertainment.

To receive one of the thousands of DAB radios, listeners need to nominate people to the 39 BBC stations.

They can do this from Monday by filling out an application form at wavelength/radiohero.

Radios have been donated by Argos, Currys PC World, John Lewis & Partners, Pure and Roberts Radio.

They will be distributed by loneliness charity Wavelength and Duracell UK will provide the batteries.

Since Make A Difference launched last week, BBC Local Radio has been receiving more than 8,000 calls a day.

Among those it has helped include Tony, a father of three young children from Nottingham who has terminal lung disease.

He called Radio Nottingham to encourage people to stop panic buying and explained he could not go out shopping because of his condition.

The station was inundated with offers of help and a local community group delivered Tony vital goods within hours.

On Thursday, the broadcaster also launched its Stay At Home public information films with clips from shows including Miranda and The Thick Of It.

Director general Tony Hall said: ‘Using our stars is a good way of getting the message out. Even if it makes just a small difference, it will be worth it.’