As traditional newspapers face decline, a resurgence of independent local media is emerging across the UK and the US. This new wave aims to fill the void left in communities now referred to as ‘news deserts.’
In the UK alone, around four million individuals reside in areas lacking dedicated news outlets. This situation arises as advertising dollars shift to major social media platforms and readers increasingly consume news online at no cost, leading to the closure of numerous local newspapers.
Lord (William) Hague, former leader of the British Conservative Party, has characterized the current state of local media as “a scene of utter devastation, with most titles dead or dying.”
Conversely, this week marks ‘Indie News Week,’ a celebration hosted by the Public Interest News Foundation (PINF), highlighting the importance of independent news in “strengthening democracy, holding power to account, creating pride in place and fostering civic partnership.”
PINF, which supports many new independent outlets, is committed to “connecting communities with their news providers, generating all-important funds and raising awareness of the essential work that journalists do across the country.”
Churches, often deeply rooted in local communities and engaged in various beneficial projects, are seen as natural partners for local media. They have stories to share, especially those highlighting the transformative impact of the Christian gospel.
However, the relationship between churches and local media can be inconsistent. Journalist Phil Creighton, who launched independent titles in Wokingham and Reading, shared that church responses ranged “from bafflement and indifference to helpful and encouraging.”
He noted that some churches did not understand the intent behind sending a photographer to their events, while others were very cooperative.
In contrast, in Hertfordshire, experienced journalist Matt Adams launched the independent St Albans Times in 2023. He sees churches and faith groups as integral to local news gathering, saying, “We see building links with them as a key part of our news gathering.”
The Times has successfully collaborated with local churches, including featuring news and opinions from church leaders and covering events like Easter and Christmas services.
Additionally, it has addressed controversial church issues, such as those affecting Soul Survivor in Watford.
Other innovative media efforts include Mill Media, founded in Manchester in 2020 and now active in multiple UK cities. It aims to connect readers with insightful journalism, supported by over 10,000 paying members.
The ‘The Bristol Cable’, another independent outlet, operates as a member-owned entity, impacting local government policies and gaining recognition in Parliament.
Celebrating Indie News Week, PINF members are hosting various community events, such as film festivals and ‘meet the editor’ days, to engage with local communities actively.
These emerging media platforms are accessible to churches, offering opportunities to share positive news and potentially foster interactions centered around the gospel.
Rev Peter Crumpler is a Church of England minister in St Albans, Herts, and a former communications director with the CofE.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
