Support for the smallest local news publications is mounting as the digital economy clearly favours the bigger titles. What are the key developments on the horizon and why does it matter to you?
Subscribe to the Journalism.co.uk podcast on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud and Spotify
Last year, the UK charity Public Interest News Foundation (PINF) released data that revealed that on average, independent local news outlets earn annual revenue of just £42k. Meanwhile, the big regional news organisations have revenues in the millions.
This is despite the fact that stories published by community organisations are some of the most hard-hitting. But the digital economy favours the big players.
Look at Australia's News Bargaining Code, introduced to level the playing field between tech and publishers, and allow news organisations to negotiate more revenue for clicks to their site. But only those who earn more than $150,000 (Australian Dollars) - around £80,000 - are eligible. That is precisely the bracket that few independent publishers fall in. Such a model in the UK would exclude most independent news outlets.
In this week's podcast, Jonathan Heawood, executive director of PINF discusses what is next for the UK independent news sector. We revisit the legacy of the 2019 Cairncross Review into a sustainable future for journalism and how one of its key rejected recommendations could find its way into Scottish legislation instead. There are also concerns around increasing consolidations within local journalism and the threat that poses to community titles. But could there be a way to support community buyouts instead of seeing small titles falling into the hands of already powerful news groups?
PINF is also surveying for its next index into the UK independent news sector. Fill it in when you get a chance.
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
Regional news publications seek a part-time reporter (three days a week) with NCTJ qualifications, a driving licence and access to a car
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?
