Powerful Local Newspaper Campaigning Showcased For Journalism Matters

A showcase of 24 powerful local media campaigns from across the industry has been unveiled as part of the News Media Association’s Journalism Matters campaign.

Run by daily and weekly newspapers over the past year, the campaigns will be open to a public vote kicking off on 13 May – the start of the new Journalism Matters week.

Shortlisted campaigns include the Manchester Evening News’ hidden homelessness campaign, the Evening Times’ push for mandatory teaching of CPR in secondary schools, The Star’s knife crime crackdown and the Eastern Daily Press’ campaign to celebrate Norfolk.  

The Yellow Advertiser’s investigation into a paedophile ring and The Sunday Post’s campaign against surgical mesh and the Chorley Guardian’s drive to raise funds for a new food bank are also on the shortlist.  

The winner of the vote will be announced by NMA vice chairman Henry Faure Walker at the Society of Editors Regional Press Awards on 17 May and will receive the Making a Difference award.  

Mr Faure Walker said: “Campaigning is one of the unique strengths of the news media industry. Each year, our sector runs hundreds of campaigns which shine a spotlight on important local and national issues and change people’s lives for the better.  

“Journalism Matters is designed to celebrate our unique role and bring the industry together to shout unashamedly about the benefits we create for society.”

Journalism Matters will also include a #trustednewsday on 16 May during which news media publications will showcase how trusted news media journalism is produced. Last year, a Thunderclap to kick off #trustednewsday reached nearly 2.5 million accounts after being backed by hundreds of editors and publishers.