Later Life Audio & Radio Cooperative (LLARC)

My Role

• edited podcasts and facilitated audio production workshops for older adults

• co-wrote a £10k EPSRC funding bid and managed the allocated budget

• co-produced branding materials with members

• supported LLARC’s governance: participated in sociocratic circles, helped register as a cooperative, and invited Co-ops UK CEO Rose Marley for the first AGM keynote speech

• social media management

Collaboration

• worked with community radio producers, third-sector organisations, and Newcastle University staff

• coordinated across multiple stakeholders to champion older adults’ voices in community broadcasting

Tools & Methods

• audio editing / Zoom for recording workshops and podcasts

• film and photography to capture sessions and events.

Impact

• contributed to LLARC’s launch at a 2-day radio festival for older adults

• network content ranked Top 50 Global Interviews on Mixcloud

• gained Newcastle University Engagement and Place Award for inclusive audio education

• supported older adults learning audio production and actively participating in broadcasting

• built early community awareness and established sustainable digital channels

Learning / Takeaways

• learned the value of inclusive facilitation for diverse participants

• gained experience in cooperative governance and cross-sector coordination

• strengthened skills in project management, funding, and outreach, balancing hands-on production with strategic organisation

• built practical insight into social innovation and digital participation for later-life communities

• making content accessible to older adults

You can listen to LLARC's mixcloud here.  

You can read more about LLARC here