Media Literacy Project

Explore our series on media literacy, including how journalism works, what press regulation means, how we report responsibly, and how you can identify trustworthy news. From bylines to corrections, these articles explain the inner workings of ethical, local journalism.

Journalists assembled outside the Supreme Court in London Image: Steve Nimmons/Wikipedia

First on the scene: What breaking news is (and isn’t) meant to do

When a big story breaks, people want answers fast. But in the earliest moments of any major event, verified facts are often in short supply. While breaking news updates are...

From tip to headline: How the public helps local journalism thrive

Local journalism is a conversation, not a broadcast. While journalists investigate, write, and publish, readers often play a vital role in helping stories come to life. Whether it’s sending in a tip, sharing...

Clickbait vs credibility: Why responsible news starts with the headline

In the era of print newspapers, headlines were designed to stand out on newsstands. They had to grab attention, fit in a limited space, and sell papers. Tabloid papers such as...

Who said that? Understanding named and anonymous sources in the news

Where a piece of information comes from is just as important as the information itself. In journalism, that’s why we talk about sources. These are the people, documents, or...

What makes the news and what doesn’t: Editorial judgement explained

In the digital age, where information can be posted instantly and shared even faster, it’s easy to assume that if a newsroom knows something, it should report it. But responsible...

Fast news, slow truth: Why responsible journalism waits to get it right

In journalism, speed is optional. Accuracy is not. You can miss a headline - but you can’t afford to miss the truth. The pressure to publish quickly has never been greater, but so...

The evolution of journalism: From print to digital, facts to formats

Journalism has undergone a seismic shift over the past few decades. From the era of daily print deadlines to the always-on pace of digital publishing, the tools and platforms have...

How local journalism supports democracy at a grassroots level

At its best, journalism is not just about reporting the news - it’s about making sure democracy works. Nowhere is this more visible than in the work of local and regional newsrooms, where...

King Charles calls regional press “cornerstone of democracy” as Bedford Independent publisher attends Buckingham Palace reception

The Bedford Independent was amongst the publications represented at a reception at Buckingham Palace yesterday (Wednesday) in recognition of the importance of regional media. The event, hosted by King Charles and...

Why press regulation matters: A guide to how UK journalism is held to account

Press regulation exists to protect both the public and journalists. In an age of misinformation and mistrust, it acts like a kite mark, signalling a commitment to ethical standards, transparency...

Media Literacy Project

Get the latest Bedford news first