The ‘Inspiring the Future’ initiative has made significant strides in promoting careers in journalism, reaching over 11,000 students across more than 100 schools. This campaign is an integral part of the Government’s Local Media Action Plan, which highlights the indispensable role that local media plays within communities nationwide.
In addition, fifty organisations will benefit from a £6 million Local News Fund provided by the government. This funding aims to ensure that communities continue to have access to reliable and high-quality local journalism.
Addressing the Shift to Online Media
As audiences increasingly turn to online platforms for news, the importance of local journalism has escalated, particularly as the Government aims to decentralise power. Local journalism is crucial for ensuring accountability and combatting misinformation in the digital age.
At the heart of the Government’s ‘Amplify: The Local Media Action Plan’, the Local News Fund intends to strengthen community bonds, rebuild social trust, and foster local growth by supporting journalism at the grassroots level. The majority of the funding has been allocated to local print and online news agencies, as well as independent radio and television stations, with grants of up to £125,000 available for community outreach, digital tools, and multimedia services aimed at attracting younger audiences and establishing sustainable income sources. This financial support has been distributed evenly across England and Wales, ensuring that local journalism is bolstered in every region.
Support for Infrastructure Development
The remainder of the fund has been allocated to seven organisations, including software developers and major industry stakeholders, to enhance infrastructure beneficial to the entire sector, with grants reaching up to £275,000.
Media Minister Ian Murray expressed the government’s commitment to local media, stating that it has long been one of the most trusted news sources. However, as the media landscape becomes more intricate, many outlets have had to downsize or shut down. The government is determined to prevent local journalism from collapsing, recognising its vital role in fostering a confident society where everyone feels included.
Through the Local News Fund, the government is facilitating innovation and adaptation of business models in newsrooms, while encouraging the production of high-quality, trustworthy news that communities depend on.
Inspiring Future Journalists
A significant component of the Local Media Action Plan is the ‘Inspiring the Future’ careers campaign, co-funded by the News Media Association (NMA). This initiative connects local media professionals with schools to motivate the next generation of journalists. The initial six-month phase of the campaign focused on the North West, targeting schools in economically disadvantaged areas, where 79% of students are eligible for free school meals. Plans to expand the initiative nationally are contingent upon evaluation and further funding.
Theo Bamber, Chief Executive of the News Media Association, expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort between DCMS and Education and Employers, emphasising the importance of this pilot in connecting local media professionals with emerging talent. As power shifts away from Westminster, the accountability function of local news will become even more critical.
Commitment to Journalist Safety
During Journalism Matters Week, an annual campaign by the NMA that highlights the significance of journalism within the UK’s national framework, the National Committee for the Safety of Journalists will convene to update the National Action Plan. This reaffirms the government’s commitment to ensuring journalist safety and addressing challenges in news gathering—another key aspect of the Local Media Action Plan. This meeting will bring together representatives from various sectors to outline strategies for safeguarding journalists in the UK.
Polly Curtis, Co-Chair of the Local News Fund Steering Board, remarked on the incredible talent across the country to rejuvenate local news in response to community needs for trustworthy information. She encouraged future applications for funding to address the issue of news deserts that persist across the nation.
Future Aspirations and Concerns
Jeremy Clifford, another Co-Chair of the Local News Fund Steering Board, expressed satisfaction with the number of bids received, highlighting the initiative’s importance in facilitating necessary changes within the industry. However, the high volume of quality applications posed a challenge in distributing the limited funding effectively. Clifford hopes for increased collaboration and knowledge sharing to benefit the broader news industry in the future.
While the funding is a positive step, Laura Davison, general secretary of the NUJ, noted that many members remain anxious about their job security and the overall state of the industry. The high level of interest in the Fund reflects the urgent need for support within the sector.
Innovative Projects Funded
Joanne Forbes, Chief Executive of the NCTJ, underscored the importance of local journalism in holding power accountable and sharing untold stories. She acknowledged the potential of AI to assist struggling newsrooms but stressed the necessity of maintaining quality and trust in journalism.
Several innovative projects were funded through the Local News Fund, including initiatives aimed at improving digital services, audience engagement, and operational efficiency. These projects span various regions and media types, from community radio to online news platforms, all dedicated to transforming local journalism to meet contemporary challenges.
In summary, the government’s initiative to support local journalism through the Local News Fund and campaigns like ‘Inspiring the Future’ signals a robust commitment to preserving and enhancing the role of local media in fostering informed communities and promoting democratic values.