New research commissioned by iconic British manufacturers, Ruark Audio, to mark the 100-year anniversary of the UK’s first entertainment radio broadcast, reinforces the enduring power of radio, showing increased listening during the Covid-19 pandemic and radio’s positive impact on mental well-being.
The survey, which was conducted by Perspectus Global and polled 1500 respondents between 1 -2 October, found that many listeners turned to radio during lockdown with 47 percent of respondents saying they are listening to more radio during the pandemic.
84 percent respondents said that listening to radio or podcasts is good for their mental health, and almost a third said they prefer listening to the radio over watching TV or streaming services.
A spokesperson from Ruark Audio, said: “As a nation, radio is reassuring to us and can help keep us calm in times of stress. It is a platform that we find comfort in, especially when many are feeling more alone than ever. Radio can bring many positive effects through its progressive, everchanging and relevant broadcasts. At Ruark we want to create flexible products, empowering users to listen more in style. As this survey shows, the power of radio has never been stronger. We hope the platform only continues growing and bringing positivity to people’s lives.”
Ford Ennals, CEO, Digital Radio UK, said: “As this study shows, radio is more important than ever to listeners and that’s why almost 90% of us in the UK listen every week. During the pandemic, all generations have turned to radio as a key source of national and local news, information, music, entertainment, and companionship.
“People are discovering that thanks to radio’s digital revolution there are now many more stations available, with 54 national digital stations and hundreds of great local stations, and more being launched all the time.”
Three quarters of those surveyed said that they find radio a comfort in times of crisis. When asked why, 55 percent said music lifts their spirits, 48 percent find background noise comforting, and 47 percent listen for the company.
22 percent said that they find hearing voices on the radio to be particularly calming, and one in five said that it gives them a different perspective on life. The study also found that seven in ten people find it easier to take in information from radio or podcasts, rather than watching videos.
Ruark Audio is celebrating the launch of a new version of their leading R1 model. An evolution of the original design, the new R1 sees a more progressive style including a hand-crafted slatted wood grille. Find out more here.