Each year, we require each regulated publisher to submit one as part of their contract with IPSO to publicly demonstrate their best editorial practice and compliance with the Editors’ Code of Practice.

Publishers must explain how they handle complaints and the training they offer their teams. They must also give a record of any complaints upheld by IPSO, and how they have responded. 

IPSO has now published its annual statements for 2022 on its website.

IPSO’s publishers include hyperlocal websites, B2B magazines, regional newspapers covering every corner of the UK and Channel Islands, and national newspapers.  Some publishers, like new members Soccer Publishing Ltd, have submitted an annual statement for the first time, while others like DC Thomson are in their ninth year of reporting.

Annual statements can be completed in the publisher’s own style.

What was interesting about this year’s statements?

Two years after the Covid-19 pandemic, there are still implications being felt across the journalism sector. Some, like Wyvex Media based in Oban in Scotland have now adopted a hybrid working arrangement which they say works well for staff and their business. Publishers like MNA in the Midlands have adapted to holding training sessions remotely.

For PA Media, the editorial agenda in 2022 was dominated by the continuing impact of Covid‐19 but particularly by the death of Her Majesty The Queen. As the first media organisation to announce Queen Elizabeth’s death, they provided content which they detected in around 350,000 online and print articles.

It is always encouraging to read about the thorough processes that publishers employ to ensure that their articles are accurate, including steps for fact-checking, ensuring that interviewees are fully informed about the process which will take place, and retaining all notes, audio recordings and correspondence. Baylis Media, Landor LINKS and Faversham House demonstrated particular care in ensuring the publication of accurate and trustworthy news.

Baylis Media and DC Thomson referred to the training sessions held by IPSO in 2022. We run workshops for newsrooms on key issues, editorial standards and the latest rulings by the Complaints Committee. These are free for all member publishers, can be tailored for your newsrooms’ requirements, and can be delivered in person and online.

Several publishers referenced IPSO’s pre-publication advice service. This service is free and can be helpful in avoiding potential breaches of the Editors’ Code. Our Complaints Officers can be contacted to discuss Code issues during office hours via 0300 123 2220, or out of hours, where necessary, via 07799 903 929.

What happens now?

As part of our commitment to transparency, the statements have now been published on our website and can be viewed here.