Become a listener

Tokuma Jeczalik, Audio Editor

I began volunteering here as part of my Bronze DofE (Duke of Edinburgh award) and I was unsure what to expect.  Luckily it is an extremely friendly environment and I feel very fulfilled as I am helping people in our local community.  I have now started college and I am continuing to volunteer each fortnight for my Gold DofE.  I highly recommend STAN, whether you are a prospective Listener or a Volunteer; everyone is so kind and everyone works to provide the best experience possible for our Listeners.

Jane Jones, Volunteer Reader

I am Jane Jones and I am 68.  I retired from my job as a primary school teacher in 2015. I am married with 2 grown up daughters and 1 grandson and 1 granddaughter.  I also volunteer in a charity shop, as well as listening to readers in the reception class of my grandchildren's primary school and announcing at swimming galas.

Reading for STAN was something I had wanted to do for a long time, but couldn't fit it in whilst teaching.  I wanted to do this because of my paternal grandfather, who lost his sight when my mum was pregnant with me, so he never saw me but I used to read to him as soon as I was able.

Mike King, Production & Volunteer Co-ordinator

In 2018, when I hit my milestone 40th birthday, I felt I wanted to do something in my spare time, so looked for local charities who I could support.  I started as a Presenter on a once-a-month basis which suited me perfectly as I work full-time, but gradually I came in more frequently to read or present, as well as taking on more behind-the-scenes duties.  Since 2020 I have been Production & Volunteer Co-ordinator, organising the rota for our volunteers as well as some of the content for each edition of STAN.  In 2025 I became the Chair of Trustees, a role where I can put my leadership skills to good use to support the charity with an aim to increase our listener numbers and improve the service we offer. I love hearing from our Listeners who have some fascinating stories of their own, as well as receiving feedback so we can improve the service to their needs.  It's very rewarding to know that STAN can be a real "lifeline" and makes a huge difference to our Listeners' lives.  Anyone wishing to join the team to do something rewarding, please get in touch.

DJ, Listener

Many thanks for my first edition of the memory stick from the Talking News, which I enjoyed listening to all the items very much.  Looking forward to the next one.

DT, Listener

I received my first issue of Swindon Talking News along with the player in 2022 as I had been unable to read the Swindon Advertiser for about 4 years due to fading eyesight.  This has been a new experience for me which I have found most interesting, informative and entertaining.  My sincere thanks to you all and I look forward to future editions.