Gfm, a volunteer-led radio station serving Glastonbury, Street, Wells, and surrounding villages, has received a grant of £106,367 from the National Lottery.

The funding will allow the community radio station to refurbish their premises and invest in state-of-the-art studio equipment, enabling them to expand their outreach and training programs for young people and local groups.

For years, the current studio building has been in need of a complete equipment and furniture upgrade, with particular emphasis on the access needs of presenters and guests, both physical and mental. Alice Topson, Director of Diversity and a user of a rollator walking aid, will work with volunteers to ensure that everything is considered, from font size on computers to the colour scheme, to ensure the studio is accessible to everyone.

Station Manager Joanne Schofield said that the desire to develop the outreach and training aspect of the radio station was a major focus of the bid, as the space and equipment had not been fit for purpose for some time.

With the refurbishment, Gfm hopes to give local people and organisations a platform to raise awareness and encourage greater understanding and cohesion amongst the diverse communities within the broadcast area.

Gfm's ultimate goal is to combat isolation and bring people together.

The radio station will now offer many opportunities for people to get involved and learn new skills. As Joanne put it, "Gfm is so much more than what comes out of your speakers. So many people think radio is just about playing music. In fact, there are so many transferable skills that are enhanced and learnt by making radio programs, from learning interview techniques and research skills to improving confidence and communication abilities."

Thanks to the National Lottery funding, Gfm will also be able to cover other essential running costs. Volunteers and listeners can now look forward to the next three years with confidence.

Gfm started broadcasting in 2008 from the Tor Leisure Centre in Glastonbury, before moving to a shipping container in the car park outside the Red Brick Building until their current studios were built by Director Bob Lloyd and a team of volunteers. The station is currently based in the Red Brick Building, Morland Enterprise Park, Glastonbury. You can find it at 107.1fm or listen online