The Havering Daily Ltd. – Editorial Code of Practice
As a publisher regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), The Havering Daily Ltd. is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical journalism, accountability, and public trust. This Code of Practice is binding on all staff, journalists, contributors, contractors, and stakeholders representing The Havering Daily Ltd.
Our editorial standards are aligned with the IPSO Editors’ Code of Practice, which we adopt in full. The principles below reflect both IPSO requirements and our own internal commitments to responsible journalism in the public interest.
1. Accuracy
1.1 All published information must be accurate, not misleading, and verified through reliable sources.
1.2 Headlines, social media posts, and images must accurately reflect the content.
1.3 Significant inaccuracies, misleading statements, or distortions will be corrected promptly, transparently, and with due prominence.
2. Privacy
2.1 Everyone is entitled to respect for their private and family life, home, health, and correspondence.
2.2 Intrusions into privacy are only justified where clear public interest is demonstrated.
2.3 The obtaining of material through clandestine means will only be considered in exceptional circumstances and must be approved by the Editor-in-Chief.
3. Harassment
3.1 Journalists must not engage in intimidation, harassment, or persistent pursuit.
3.2 Individuals who ask to cease contact must have their request honoured unless a clear public interest justifies continued engagement.
4. Children
4.1 The welfare of the child is paramount.
4.2 Children under 16 must not be interviewed or photographed without the consent of a parent or guardian where they can be identified.
4.3 Children must not be approached at school, near their home, or involved in sensitive stories without exceptional public interest.
5. Reporting of Grief or Shock
5.1 In cases of personal grief, tragedy, or shock, sensitivity and discretion must be exercised.
5.2 Individuals who are grieving should not be placed under pressure to comment.
6. Intrusion into Self-Harm and Suicide
6.1 We will not publish excessive details of suicide methods.
6.2 Coverage must be responsible, avoid sensationalism, and include signposting to mental health support services where appropriate.
7. Discrimination
7.1 The Havering Daily Ltd. will not publish material that discriminates or encourages hatred against individuals or groups based on race, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
7.2 Details about personal characteristics will only be included when strictly relevant to the story.
8. Crime and Payments
8.1 Criminals or those convicted of crimes must not be paid or offered financial gain for information unless permitted under strict public interest tests.
8.2 The newspaper will not facilitate or encourage criminal behaviour.
9. Financial Journalism
9.1 Financial reporting must be accurate and not misleading.
9.2 Any conflicts of interest must be declared.
9.3 Journalists must not use financial information for personal benefit before it becomes public.
10. Public Interest, Accountability, and Transparency
10.1 We will hold those in positions of power, public office, and influence accountable in the public interest.
10.2 Editorial decisions will be made independently of advertisers, sponsors, political influence, or other commercial interests.
10.3 We commit to publishing legitimate stories that benefit the community and contribute to informed public debate.
11. Corrections and Complaints
11.1 A clear and accessible process for the submission of complaints will be maintained.
11.2 All complaints will be dealt with respectfully, promptly, and in accordance with IPSO standards.
11.3 If IPSO upholds a ruling against us, we will comply fully and publish adjudications with due prominence.
12. Commitment to Ethical Journalism
12.1 The Havering Daily Ltd. will ensure that contributors and freelance reporters are informed of this Code and are expected to comply with it.
12.2 Staff will receive ongoing training in IPSO compliance, media law, and ethical reporting.
By adhering to this Code of Practice and the IPSO Editors’ Code, The Havering Daily Ltd. reaffirms its dedication to fair, accurate, and responsible journalism. We strive to protect individuals, serve our readers honestly, and ensure the continued trust of the community we represent.