Welcome back to The Charity Show, the charity podcast that lifts the lid on life inside UK charities. Real stories, expert tips and the behind-the-scenes moments that make the sector tick.

This week, we’re joined by Evie Dickinson, Head of Fundraising and Communications at the Prison Radio Association (PRA)—the groundbreaking charity behind the world’s first national radio station for people in prison.

For nearly twenty years, PRA has been running National Prison Radio, a station made by prisoners, for prisoners. Broadcasting 24/7 into cells across England and Wales, it’s not just entertainment—it’s a lifeline. From tackling isolation to inspiring rehabilitation, it’s changing lives and shifting perceptions.

In this episode, we explore:

• 🎙️ The origins of prison radio and how it began as a response to mental health crises inside.

• 📻 What makes radio such a powerful tool for connection compared with podcasts or TV.

• 🌍 How the hit podcast Life After Prison supports prison leavers—and has already reached over 10 million listeners.

• ✍️ The creativity sparked by shows like Free Flow, encouraging prisoners to write rap bars and poetry.

• 🚪 Inspiring success stories: from serving time to winning industry awards and working at the BBC.

• ⚖️ The ongoing challenge of public perception—and why charities must use storytelling to demonstrate real impact.

Alongside our interview with Evie, Tim and Piers also unpack the week’s charity news:

• A refugee-sector charity accused of pushing politics into the classroom after a Valentine’s campaign.

• Cancer Research UK’s polarising social media exchange with Jeremy Clarkson - and what it reveals about when charities should (and shouldn’t) chase humour online.

And of course, our Small Charity Spotlight shines on two brilliant organisations quietly making a huge difference:

• Positive Path Foundation – supporting young people with autism and hidden disabilities through social opportunities and life skills.

• Growing Hope – providing free therapy for children with additional needs in partnership with local churches.

👉 Whether you’re a charity professional, a communications lead, or simply curious about unheard voices, this episode shows the transformative power of radio and why giving people a platform can change lives.

Chapters:

00:00 – Back from holiday: inbox dread and coping with the heat

08:50 – Interview with Evie Dickinson (part one): origins of the Prison Radio Association

24:34 – Charity news: political campaigns in schools and social media misfires

32:14 – Interview with Evie Dickinson (part two): impact, funding and future goals

54:01 – Small charity spotlight: Positive Path Foundation & Growing Hope

57:31 – Wrap-up and what’s coming soon on The Charity Show

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