Latest RAJAR figures show millions listening to radio

RAJAR figures released for the first quarter of 2016 show that millions of adults are listening to their radios every week.

The importance of the work done by British Wireless has been reinforced today (May 19th) by the release of the latest RAJAR (Radio Joint Audience Research) figures.

RAJAR is the official body in charge of measuring radio audiences and its data for the period covering December 28th 2015 – April 3rd 2016 shows that 89% of adults in the UK listened every week.

While this is down slightly on the previous quarter’s 90%, it’s still a massive 47.8 million people who tuned in, up by around 24,000 compared to this time last year, for a total of 1.01 billion hours a week.

On average, a listener enjoyed 21 hours of live radio a week and 57% of the population are now tuning in via digital platforms such as DAB sets, online and through the TV.

The data also shows that 30 million adults now own a DAB radio, which is a 14% increase year on year.

In an average week, digital listening accounted for 444 million hours, with DAB making up 70% of that; online 18% and DTV 12%.

Radio listening via a mobile phone or tablet also increased, with 25% of adults using these devices at least once a month, and 37% of 15-24-year-olds in the same period.

All these figures show just how much the medium of radio means to the UK’s population, especially those who are visually impaired, which is why it is vital we continue to provide the service that we do to those in need.

Imagine the companionship a radio could provide if you couldn’t read a newspaper, book or magazine, or watch the television.

Many blind and partially sighted people can experience loneliness and isolation, but by providing them with a radio, BWBF gives them a lifeline to the world.