Decentered Media Podcast 143 - We Need A Civic and Community Media Alliance Decentered Media Podcast

In this Decentered Media podcast episode, the pressing need to reformulate policy development for community media and public purpose media in the UK takes centre stage. The discussion opens with a critical examination of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s (DCMS) current approach, highlighting its inadequate engagement with civic society organisations and public authorities. I argue that this failure significantly hampers the ability of community media providers to produce content that effectively addresses the myriad of social problems exacerbating the deterioration of the UK’s social fabric, particularly in the wake of prolonged austerity measures.

The conversation then shifts to the potential of community media as a tool for social renewal, emphasising its role in fostering community engagement, amplifying marginalised voices, and promoting social cohesion. I summarise my insights into how community media can serve as a platform for dialogue and understanding, bridging the gap between different segments of society and contributing to the healing of the social divide.

I argue that the next government has to ensure there is a collaborative effort between the government, civic society organisations, public sector bodies, and community media practitioners to co-create a more inclusive and participatory policy framework. This new policy direction would prioritize public purpose and leverage the power of community media to address local needs, empower communities, and tackle social issues head-on.

The episode concludes with a rallying cry for listeners to advocate for policy change that recognises and supports the invaluable contribution of community media to society. I urge stakeholders at all levels to engage in meaningful dialogue and partnership to ensure that community media can fully realize its potential as a force for good at addressing the challenges facing the UK today.