Join Us

HOW DO I JOIN SOUTHSIDE?

The first step is to either write to the station personnel officer or telephone the station directly on 01642 854742 and let us know of your interest. We will then either arrange a suitable time for a visit to the station and/or forward an application form to you.
Once your application form has been completed, a semi-formal interview with at least two senior station members will be arranged to discuss your application.

Click here to download the application form

WHY DO I NEED TO BE INTERVIEWED WHEN THIS IS A VOLUNTARY ORGANISATION?

Like any organisation, SouthSide has standards and responsibilities both to it’s current membership and South Tees Acute Hospitals NHS Trust. It is very important to ensure at this early stage that joining the station will not be waste of either your time or ours.

IF I AM INVITED TO AN INTERVIEW, WHAT SORT OF QUESTIONS WILL I BE ASKED?

The whole idea of a semi-formal interview is designed to allow the potential member not only to ’sell’ themselves to SouthSide but also to enable them to ask the organisation any questions they may have.

Interviewees should therefore expect to be asked to elaborate on their past work, hobbies & interests and how they believe they could incorporate these into possible programming. Remember that there is much more to radio work than presentation and applicants are much more likely to be invited to join the station if they clearly express an interest in ward-visiting and fundraising.

IS THERE A MEMBERSHIP FEE?

Yes £10.00/year or £5.00/year if the applicant is unwaged. This again is purely to indicate a level of commitment as well as helping with basic running costs.

IF I AM SUCCESSFUL AT THE INTERVIEW STAGE, WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Depending on the past level of broadcasting experience a Probationary period of 3-6 months is outlined during which time the trainee will be asked to observe & participate in a variety of shows/activities of the station. Technical training in multi-source audio techniques, script-writing and effective vocal delivery will also be covered if the trainee has indicated an interest in presentation.

Towards the end of the probationary period, time will be set aside to produce a number of unbroadcast ‘pilot’ shows and if a suitable level of professionalism is attained the trainee will be offered a regular slot within the schedule. Broadcasting should then continue to develop and improve with experience.

WHAT SORT OF TIME COMMITMENT WILL I BE ASKED TO GIVE THE STATION?

This is always considered on an individual basis. Some of our members have family or work commitments which clearly take precedence. On average we would expect an initial commitment of 2-3 hours a week to suffice. If members are unable to make training sessions/programmes they are expected to inform colleagues in advance.

WILL WORKING FOR SOUTHSIDE ENABLE ME TO MAKE A LIVING IN THE MEDIA INDUSTRY?

Many past and present members of the station are already working in or have worked in the communications media. However there are no guarantees, nor could there be, given the competitive nature of the industry and it must always be acknowledged that the prime focus of staff on the station is to produce a quality service as an end in itself.

It is always pleasing when presenters do achieve their ambition of working in the media whilst still maintaining an active interest in the day to day running of SouthSide. That way all parties benefit.