The ICNN supports and champions community journalists and the hyperlocal news sector, working to create 'a level playing field' with established media
The Independent Community News Network (ICNN), the representative body for the hyperlocal news sector and community journalists, launched yesterday evening (11 January) in Cardiff.
ICNN aims to support and champion sustainable forms of digital and print journalism on a local level, providing help and guidance such as specialist legal support to its members.
The network has been active since the summer and already has 70 members, but this week’s official launch means ICNN is now able to consult with its advisory board to map its future and choose the issues to focus on, explained Emma Meese, director of ICNN, in an email to Journalism.co.uk.
As well as offering access to legal support, the network is currently in discussions with the National Union of Journalists to gain access to press cards for its eligible members, and is exploring the readership and combined reach of its membership.
"We are aware that we have many challenges ahead of us if we are to get the community and hyperlocal news sector on a level playing field with the more traditional local news sector," Meese said.
"A number of legislations aimed at local news publishers, such as publishing statutory notices, were created when the local news landscape looked completely different.
"If we are to succeed in getting fair opportunities for our members we will have to look at these issues and fight for fair access for all."
The hyperlocal and community news sector is often misunderstood by those outside it, such as local authorities or even established newsrooms, so part of ICNN’s work also includes advocating that community journalism can also be professional, Meese explained in a recent Journalism.co.uk podcast.
ICNN’s current members include The Bristol Cable, The Ferret, The Hackney Citizen, Caerphilly Observer, Shetland News, the Lincolnite, and Wrexham.com among others.
As well as Meese, the network has two other members of staff, working directly with members: Matt Abbott, communications and project officer, and Professor Justin Lewis, chairman.
"We think we can achieve things together that we couldn’t achieve individually," Lewis said at the launch at the National Assembly for Wales Senedd building yesterday.
If you like our news and feature articles, you can sign up to receive our free daily (Mon-Fri) email newsletter (mobile friendly).
Sign up to receive job alerts of your choice by email, or manage your subscription
Featured recruiter: click to view its vacancies
New digital journal covering inflation and rate setting seeks a talented writer with experience as a financial journalist to use data to produce specialist content
Subscribe to our newsletter for latest news, tips, jobs and more
End that deadline stress today and find help in our freelance directory
Personal trainer James Hilton has launched a podcast 'Jim's Gym - Inspiring Movement'. James, a specialist in biomechanics and injury recovery from the Cotswolds, runs Jim's Gym, a virtual online space supporting people over 55 to be more active
Our next Newsrewired conference will be in May 2025, London.
Conferences and study weeks are fantastic opportunities to get the latest updates on the industry and network with your peers
Awards are a great way to have your hard work recognised by industry experts and celebrate your teams. Here is where you can apply
If you find your social feeds a tad too heavy on men's voices, follow and connect with these fantastic women experts on indie media
How do you move print readers to digital? Are there other ways to hold on to subscribers besides a last-ditch deal?
