The BBC has a unique public service role in keeping communities informed.
Only the BBC can reach the whole of the UK at once, through its national radio, television and on-line channels, whilst fulfilling a local role in towns and cities through a range of grass root radio, television and on-line services.
The BBC remains the trusted broadcaster the Nation turns to in a crisis with a successful record as a provider of essential information during emergencies. Thirty-five million people in the UK tuned into the BBC on September 11, 2001.
In Cumbria during the flooding of January 2005, the BBC Cumbria 'Where I Live' site was able to mirror the emergency information provided on the radio. In the week of the floods, the website received 3.25 million 'hits'
We can work as a useful conduit when urgent and potentially life-saving messages need to reach as many people as possible, as fast as possible. Our traditional public service commitment ensures we will be a helpful partner. The BBC's Regional and Local Services share with you a strong commitment to the communities we jointly serve.
BBC Local Radio is committed to a news and information based output and enjoys a close relationship with its listeners. In a crisis, it is not unusual for a majority of a radio station's community to tune in.
