A senior policing official has affirmed that the media plays a “central role” during major incidents, coinciding with the release of a new charter aimed at redefining the relationship between police forces and journalists.
The Policing and Media Charter, launched on March 17 at the Society of Editors' ‘Future of News’ conference in London, is the culmination of over two years of collaboration involving senior leaders from policing, criminal justice, and the media. It offers clear guidance designed to enhance cooperation between police communications teams and journalists, particularly during critical incidents.
This initiative stemmed from a national working group formed in late 2023 following the College of Policing’s review of the Nicola Bulley missing person case—an investigation that attracted intense mainstream and social media scrutiny. As part of their work, the group also updated protocols for police information release and guidance for journalists seeking court materials.
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Jointly developed by the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), College of Policing, Crown Prosecution Service, Crime Reporters Association, Society of Editors, and Media Lawyers Association, the charter represents a significant reset in police-media collaboration.
Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, NPCC Chair, emphasized the importance of transparency, stating, “Policing needs open and honest communication with the public, and the media has a central role to play in this, especially in fast-moving or sensitive situations. This charter embodies our commitment to build mutual trust and meaningful change.”
Dawn Alford, Chief Executive of the Society of Editors, highlighted the charter’s role in rebuilding trust: “Our mutual goal is to ensure the public receives accurate and timely information about crime and policing.”
Edd Moore, Editor-in-Chief at Reach plc, praised the charter’s focus on reputable journalism, noting its importance in countering misinformation during emergencies. Rebecca Camber, Chair of the Crime Reporters Association, described the charter as a transformative step toward strengthening public confidence and policing legitimacy through improved media relations.
Together, these leaders see the charter as providing a robust framework for cooperation, fostering transparency, trust, and the public interest in times when clear communication is most critical.