Local news makes the places we live better. I don't need to tell you that, if you're reading this article on our website, it's a fair bet that you already value local news.
This week, the UK Government has published it's Local Media Strategy, a document that aims to support local news provision in the face of the challenges from the monopolies held by the big tech platforms, the overreach of the BBC and more.
It's a moment to reflect on why it matters.
The report rightly states that local media is an “essential and unique public good”.
Locally based journalists are vital to local democracy, creating transparency and accountability and, through that, trust. Where there is no local journalism, trust declines.
But there's more than that. Local reporting brings problems to the council’s attention that matter to our readers. Sometimes we are criticised for being negative, but the scrutiny and debate helps improve our communities.
Here in Worcestershire our reporters are working every day to bring you the local news, to hold local authorities to account and to bring you the latest from court, council meetings, and breaking news.
Just this month we have reported on some horrendous crimes taking place in our communities, as well as demonstrations, local companies closing, rising fuel prices, planning disputes, council tax rises and hospital waiting times. These are the issues that matter to you and we will continue to ensure you are informed about them.
Campaigns run by local titles make a difference. Our sister title the Northern Echo, for example, uncovered serious failures at North East Ambulance Service, prompting an independent review of the service. The Southern Daily Echo was recently praised for its investigation that led to the resignation of a chief constable over sexual relationships with junior officers.
The government report also rightly recognises the community building role of local media too. We support communities by highlighting local events and the services of local businesses, and by hosting physical or virtual spaces where community organisations and charities can promote their work, through local listings, awards and much more.
Yesterday I was at the Society of Editors Media Freedom Conference 2026 where Lisa Nandy, Secreatary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, spoke about the importance of local news. Beyond recognising the issue, the report puts forward some actions to support out industry.
Among them is an Inspiring the Future pilot scheme in the north-west of England that aims to reach 10,000 young people over six months and improve media literacy. Newsquest's titles in the area will be very involved in this scheme.
I welcome the government's recognition that advertising spend with local media is highly effective, giving examples such as increasing awareness of actions to take in flood risk areas, improving take up of vaccines in certain communities and encouraging more people to register for pension credit. We want to see public bodies channel more advertising spend through local media because it gives a double benefit of being both highly effective, and supporting provision of local news. The report also recognised the important of the Local Democracy Reporting Service and the need for the BBC to do more to support, rather than compete with, local news media.
None of this would be possible withouth you - the readers, who continue to support us. If you buy the paper or are a digital subscriber, you help us to make our communities stronger and better. Thank you.
