In the rolling hills and steep valleys of West Yorkshire, nestled among the towns of Bradford, Halifax and Todmorden, lies the Halifax & District Amateur Radio Society (HADARS). With a storied past dating back to the 1920s, this small yet vibrant club has faced its share of challenges, particularly in recent years. Understanding its current state requires a glance at its journey through triumphs and tribulations, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Historical Overview
HADARS, originally established as the Halifax Wireless Association, has always reflected the ebb and flow of amateur radio interest in the UK. The club peaked during the 1980s when the rise of Citizens Band (CB) radio ignited public enthusiasm for the hobby. However, like many organisations, HADARS faced fluctuations in membership over the decades, with active participation swinging between 30 and 50 members. By 2019, just before the pandemic’s disruptive onset, HADARS was flourishing. With a dedicated training program and an enthusiastic community. The club met regularly in the Church of the Good Shepherd near Hebden Bridge, providing a hub for education and camaraderie among amateur radio enthusiasts.
The Impact of COVID-19
When COVID-19 struck, the club’s momentum was abruptly halted. Lockdowns not only prevented in-person gatherings but also resulted in the loss of its meeting venue due to rising rental costs. The shift to a new space, while essential, brought its own set of challenges—limited facilities for radio operations and inadequate parking led to declining attendance and a diminishing sense of community.
The loss of members during this tumultuous period was felt deeply. By early 2022, HADARS was grappling with a concerning trend of falling membership and engagement. To understand and combat this decline, a Business Risk and Sustainability Survey was conducted. The findings revealed a daunting array of issues, including outdated communication methods, a lack of comprehensive membership records and a significant skills gap within the leadership.
Crisis Point and Realisation
HADARS reached a crisis point when rapid changes in leadership caused disarray within the club. With the former chair, secretary and treasurer stepping down in quick succession, the remaining members knew decisive action was needed to prevent the club from faltering entirely.
As difficult as these realisations were, they offered an opportunity for reflection and growth. Recognising that many amateur radio clubs faced similar struggles, HADARS began to outline an actionable recovery plan.
The Action and Recovery Plan
In September 2023, a new leadership team was elected during the AGM, igniting a renewed commitment to revitalising the club. Key areas of focus included:
Data Protection and Membership Management: The establishment of a comprehensive membership database, complete with contact details and a better understanding of member engagement, became a priority.
Updated Governance: The club’s constitution was amended to reflect contemporary needs, including clearer conflict resolution processes and updated data protection policies.
Enhanced Communication Channels: Social media was embraced as a vital tool for connecting with both active and passive members. The introduction of a private members’ Facebook group and a public community page saw membership grow significantly, offering a platform for information sharing and engagement.
Regular Newsletters: A quarterly newsletter evolved into a monthly publication, featuring club news, hobby articles and engaging content that sparked interest among members. This effort proved crucial in maintaining communication and morale.
Innovative Training Solutions: With traditional training hampered by the pandemic, HADARS adapted by introducing a “Question of the Week” initiative, which utilised animated presentations to help members engage with complex topics in amateur radio.
Understanding and Engaging Membership: While revitalising the club, it was essential to recognise the often-overlooked passive membership—those who pay dues but do not actively participate. To reconnect with these members, HADARS initiated targeted outreach efforts. By collecting feedback and understanding their interests, the club aimed to foster a sense of belonging and encourage re-engagement.
Future and Continuous Growth
As HADARS looks forward, the emphasis remains on nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community. Plans include hosting more public events to showcase amateur radio, recruiting volunteers to share the workload and continually updating training programs to meet the needs of both new and existing members.
Critical lessons learned during this revival process include the importance of shared leadership and the necessity of continuous communication. The club cannot rely on a single charismatic figure; it requires a collaborative committee that can delegate responsibilities and encourage participation across all levels.
Conclusion
The Halifax & District Amateur Radio Society stands as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. By confronting its challenges head-on and implementing thoughtful strategies, the club is not just surviving—it’s thriving once more. The journey of revitalisation is ongoing but with a renewed sense of purpose and community, HADARS is poised to welcome a new era of amateur radio enthusiasts eager to connect with the club and explore the world of communications.
In a world that is increasingly digital, the lessons learned at HADARS serve as a reminder of the enduring value of personal connection, community support and the passion that drives amateur radio operators to share knowledge and experiences. As the club continues to evolve, its commitment to fostering an inclusive and engaging environment for all members will undoubtedly ensure its legacy for years to come.