Editorial Standards

Our editorial standards are designed to support accurate, fair and responsible journalism. We use the Editors' Code of Practice as an important reference point, while not claiming regulator membership unless that status is confirmed and displayed on this website.

Accuracy

We take reasonable care before publication. Headlines, captions, social posts and summaries should be supported by the article text. Where facts are uncertain or developing, we should make that clear to readers.

Sourcing And Attribution

Sources should be identified where possible. Anonymous sourcing should be used only where there is a good editorial reason, such as safety, confidentiality or legitimate public interest. Agency, freelance, partner and third-party image material should be credited where supplied or required.

Right Of Reply

Where serious allegations are made about an identifiable person or organisation, we should normally offer a fair opportunity to respond before publication unless there is a strong public-interest reason not to do so.

Privacy, Intrusion And Harm

We consider privacy, safety, grief, shock, children, vulnerable people, medical information and discrimination risks before publication. Public-interest journalism can justify publication of sensitive material, but the decision should be proportionate and carefully assessed.

Opinion, Analysis And Labelling

Opinion, analysis, review and comment should be distinguishable from straight news reporting. Commercially influenced content must be labelled clearly and must not be presented as independent reporting.

Conflicts Of Interest

Editors, contributors and commercial teams should avoid conflicts that could compromise editorial independence. Where a relevant relationship cannot reasonably be avoided, it should be declared internally and, where appropriate, to readers.

Corrections

Significant inaccuracies should be corrected promptly. Depending on the nature of the error, we may amend the article, add a correction note, publish a clarification or remove material where there is a legal, safety or rights-based reason.

Use Of Technology

Technology may support research, transcription, production or moderation, but editorial responsibility remains with the publisher. We should not knowingly publish fabricated quotes, manipulated media or materially misleading automated output.