The World Health Organisation (WHO) has published a case-study feature recognising the Vale 50+ Forum’s monthly radio show on Bro Radio as an outstanding age-friendly practice as the first and only 50+ forum radio show in Wales.
The programme is celebrated as a standout example of community engagement and inclusion for older adults, showcasing how local partnership and innovative communication can strengthen community ties and support active ageing.
Hosted on Bro Radio, the radio show was launched in 2023 by the Vale 50+ Strategy Forum, supported by the Vale of Glamorgan Public Services Board’s Age Friendly Vale Programme.
The show provides a dedicated platform for older residents to share their views, hear from local leaders - including the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales - and learn about community events, all while listeners enjoy a carefully curated mix of classic tracks, bringing together information, entertainment, and connection.
Cllr Eddie Williams, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health, said: “The recognition from the World Health Organization is a tremendous honour and reflects our community’s commitment to ensuring older people’s voices are heard and valued.
“This radio show demonstrates how meaningful engagement, creativity and partnership can enrich lives and make our Vale an even more inclusive place to grow older.”
Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies, said: “The Vale 50+ Forum’s radio show is a really innovative way of reaching out to and engaging with older people, particularly those who are not online, and I’m delighted that this has been recognised by the WHO.
“Access to information, as well as opportunities to make our voices heard, are crucial to support us to age well, and I hope that this model can be rolled out more widely in other areas of Wales.”
Since its launch, the initiative has grown beyond its original pilot phase and continues to thrive as a valued part of the Forum’s work programme and the Vale’s ongoing age-friendly strategy.
Age Friendly Vale Officer Sian Clemett-Davies said: “The Forum’s radio programme shows how the Vale of Glamorgan is putting the Age Friendly Communities movement into action by valuing and amplifying the voices of people aged 50+. It ensures vital information reaches older residents who are housebound or offline and is a credit to the Forum volunteers who have developed new skills to create a valuable community resource.
“The programme is designed by and for older people, with forum members taking an active role in selecting topics, conducting interviews and co-producing content. Its inclusive approach helps reach listeners who may be socially isolated, bringing important information and connection directly into homes across the Vale.”
The programme is live on the second Tuesday of every month at 7pm, and people can also listen back through the ‘Listen Again’ feature on Bro Radio’s website in its 'Monthly Programming' Section via its Listen Again Service.
Hear the latest programme:

Vueling withdraws winter flights to Aicante this winter
Playground in Barry forced to close after fire damages equipment
Campaigners Take Fight for Fairer Pathways in Welsh Women’s Football to Parliament
Vale Councillor Gwyn John Launches His First Novel at Llantwit Major Book Signing
Pink poppy display commences with celebration of life
Former Barry office block converted into new homes for people at risk of homelessness
Welsh Government publishes independent report on Level 4 intervention at Cardiff and Vale UHB
Three CoastSnap stations set to be installed along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast
Daffodil Runner statue installed at Marie Curie Hospice in Penarth
Woman Dies After Incident in Leckwith as Police Investigation Continues
Vale entrepreneur wins national Innovate UK award for sustainable construction technology
Cardiff Airport retains top accessibility rating as regulator reports record demand for assistance
Open Doors event to showcase hidden world of Glamorgan Archives
New details have emerged of a new tree-lined public square that will replace a traffic dominated junction
Dyffryn Gardens’ Edwardian rose garden blooms again after decade-long restoration
Barry’s Own Daniel White to Walk 190 Miles Back to Where His Round Table Story Began
1,300 people attend Flying Start Family Fun Day
Dispersal order put in place to tackle anti-social behaviour
Interim Chief Executive Appointed at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
Cardiff Theatre Marks 50 Years of Service for Long‑Standing Staff Member