Who are we?
Sudbury Newstalk is a member of the Talking Newspaper Federation and was launched in November 1981. In common with many other audio newspapers and magazines throughout the country, we provide a service for the visually impaired by recording local news, views, information and entertaining listening on a regular basis. Our News recording listenership covers an approximate twelve mile radius of Sudbury, Suffolk, whilst our Magazine reaches further afield into West Suffolk including Bury St Edmunds, Haverhill, Newmarket and parts of Ipswich.
How are we funded?
Sudbury Newstalk is a registered charity (charity number 284646) run entirely by volunteers. Our management committee, which includes visually impaired members, is legally bound by written constitution and overseen by Trustees. We receive no direct financial support but rely on donations from well-wishers and the efforts of our own fund-raising activities to meet replacement equipment costs and administrative expenditure.
Are you a budding broadcaster?
You may consider writing and recording your own material for inclusion in our bi-monthly Magazine. A distinctive voice or accent is always an extra interesting asset. Maybe you have never recorded your voice at all, but this doesn’t really matter – who knows, you may well be an absolute natural broadcaster just waiting for your chance to have a go! We are constantly surprised by the hidden literary and speaking talents of our volunteers. Our studio times together are always great fun as there is such a friendly collection of people from all walks of life.
Can I help?
You certainly can. We are always pleased to welcome new members to our News and/or Magazine recording team; we encourage anyone who can comfortably spare just a few hours a year to help us maintain this valuable service. Our recording sessions are evenings on a Tuesday for News or Wednesday for the Magazine. They start at 7:15pm and run for about 2 hours. We are on the look out for new readers for our bi-weekly rota on Newspaper output and writers for the Magazine. We also require news editors, fund-raisers and recording technicians; do you have computer skills?
Who is eligible to receive our FREE service?
Those who are registered blind, visually impaired or physically disabled and find reading particularly difficult. We provide both recordings and suitable audio equipment for easy listening and recordings can be provided to those living outside our usual locality.
Do you know someone with failing eyesight?
If you have a friend, neighbour or family member living in the Sudbury area who is blind or has failing eyesight, do not be afraid to ask them if they receive any talking newspapers, magazines or books. You may well help to open a new world of communication for them.