The government has today announced £12m funding for the local news industry in a bid to safeguard world-class local news coverage for millions.
The funding, unveiled by the Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy MP at the Society of Editors’ Future of News conference in London, forms part of the government’s Local Media Strategy and includes funding to help local news publishers innovate digitally, to support community radio stations and to tackle the risks of ‘news deserts’ by helping to revive a local news presence in communities that currently don’t have one.
Other measures included in the Strategy include a new Regional Media Forum in the West of England that will explore ways to improve the relationship between journalists and local public services as well as a wider review of the publication of statutory notices in local newspapers. There will also be a campaign in schools in North West England to inspire young people from all backgrounds to pursue local media careers as well as a commitment by central government to ensuring it makes best use of local and hyperlocal media in its advertising and public information campaigns.
Responding to the announcement, Dawn Alford, Chief Executive of the Society of Editors said: “The Society of Editors welcomes the government’s recognition of the importance of local media and the steps set out in this strategy to support innovation and encourage the next generation of journalists.
“Publishers and editors have been adapting to a rapidly changing media landscape for years, successfully reaching significantly larger audiences through digital platforms while continuing to inform the public, reflect local voices and hold decision-makers to account. In fact, some publishers are now reaching 80% of the local population their titles serve — more than ever before.
“A strong local media sector is essential to democratic society, and we look forward to working with government and industry partners to ensure it continues to thrive and serve communities across the UK.”
More details on the Local Media Strategy can be found here. The full text of Lisa Nandy’s speech to the conference can be found here.
