We take pride in the station and the studio facilities, which have taken time and effort to achieve. The emphasis is on team work and "service above self".  Considerable effort goes on behind the scenes to keep NHR running and moving forward.

We are not always looking for presenters. In order to run an effective charity we need ward visitors, technical assistants, record librarians, outside events assistants and fundraisers.  There are many opportunities which do not involve speaking on air. 

We would also be interested in hearing from former patients who could help advise us on music and programme content and help maintain regular contact with our audience by visiting patients on the wards and talking to staff at all the Hospitals we serve.

We would be pleased to hear from those interested in becoming contributors to our service. This would involve sending material to us for broadcast - either written for us to read out, or pre-recorded audio. As with any radio station that accepts "freelance" work, we reserve the right to judge whether any material is suitable for broadcast on technical and artistic grounds. We also reserve the right to judge when such material will be broadcast.

All our live programmes are request shows for patients and staff. In addition to these shows, our presenters introduce information sequences (such as our "What's On" service) throughout the day, as part of our 24-hour service. We also encourage presenters to produce pre-recorded programme material for broadcast at various times throughout the week.

Please remember that presenting is only one of a number of roles at NHR.  Whether you are able to make a weekly commitment or perhaps just give a few hours occasionally, you will be made welcome.  NHR is about team work.

Voluntary Work (Aged 21+):

All volunteers are recruited through Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. However, please contact NHR in writing before applying to Northumbria Healthcare as the final decision whether to accept an application rests with NHR.

Please note that because NHR is a voluntary organisation, staffed mainly outside office hours, we regret we do not have the resources to accept referrals from Social Services, Employment Service, rehabilitation organisations, etc.

As with all volunteers within the NHS, applications will involve CRB (Enhanced Disclosure) and Occupational Health screening by Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. This is mandatory and should not be seen as a barrier to volunteering. There are hundreds of volunteers working for Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust on a weekly basis and we know that this work is valued, respected and appreciated by Staff and Trust Directors.

Work Placements (Aged 18+): Apply direct to NHR.

NHR offers a very limited number of placements each year for post A-level students.  Placements are offered in conjunction with Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust giving students the opportunity to gain broad experience in a hospital environment - working in specific areas/hospital departments during the day and with NHR one weekday evening.  Preference will be given to those students wishing to pursue a career in the NHS. 

NHR may also consider applicants who wish to pursue a career in the media, providing they can demonstrate at interview that they are able to maintain a regular commitment and get involved in all areas (ward visiting, fundraising etc) not just studio work.

Recent volunteers are currently working in BBC Regional Television, BBC and Independent Local Radio, Regional Public Relations and even Japanese TV (London)! 

Work experience placements are subject to approval of the candidate by Northumbria Healthcare - which will involve CRB and Occupational Health screening.

Under 18s:

Owing to insurance restrictions and having undertaken risk assessment, NHR does not work with persons under the age of 18. Please do not ask us to waive this restriction, even on a short-term basis.  

Studio visits are not available to casual enquirers.