Emergence of Independent Media Outlets Aims to Fill Local News Void
In the face of declining traditional newspapers, innovative journalists are stepping up to launch new independent local media outlets across the UK, the US, and beyond. These ventures aim to address the gap in news coverage, particularly in areas where local newspapers have shut down due to the migration of advertising to social media and the trend of accessing news online for free.
In the UK alone, around four million people reside in ‘news deserts’—regions lacking dedicated news sources. Former British Conservative Party leader Lord (William) Hague has described the situation for local media as “a scene of utter devastation, with most titles dead or dying.”
This week, the Public Interest News Foundation (PINF) has highlighted the significance of independent news through ‘Indie News Week.’ The event celebrates the role of these new media outlets in “strengthening democracy, holding power to account, creating pride in place and fostering civic partnership.”
PINF’s mission is to connect communities with their news providers and raise awareness of the vital work journalists perform across the country, according to their statement.
Churches, deeply embedded in their communities, share a common ground with local media. They are involved in numerous community projects and have a long-standing commitment to their areas. However, the relationship between churches and media isn’t always seamless.
Journalist Phil Creighton, who founded independent publications in Wokingham and Reading, noted mixed reactions from churches, ranging from indifference to support. He remarked, “Often my encouragement to keep the relationship going was ignored. Some churches really didn’t understand why we wanted to send a photographer along to an event they were holding, while others went out of their way to be helpful.”
In another instance, experienced journalist Matt Adams launched the independent St Albans Times in 2023 to serve Hertfordshire. Adams emphasized, “Churches and other faith groups are active community organisations with roots deep into our local area. We see building links with them as a key part of our news gathering.”
The St Albans Times has engaged with local churches, featuring news and opinions from church leaders and covering significant events like Easter and Christmas services. It has also reported on controversial issues, such as those affecting Soul Survivor in Watford.
Other initiatives like Mill Media, established in Manchester in 2020, have expanded to several cities, producing in-depth journalism supported by over 10,000 paying members. Mill Media aims to provide “insight and connection” lost in the era of clickbait-driven content.
The Bristol Cable exemplifies another independent outlet, both online and in print, and is fully member-owned. It has prompted changes in local government policies and been referenced in Parliament.
During Indie News Week, PINF members are hosting events nationwide to engage with communities, including film festivals and editor meet-ups. “Despite being busier than ever, journalists are throwing open the newsroom doors to let in local communities,” states the PINF.
These emerging media platforms are open to collaboration with churches and other community groups, offering a fresh opportunity for churches to share their stories and messages.
Rev Peter Crumpler is a Church of England minister in St Albans, Herts, and a former communications director with the CofE.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
