Kearney News Editorial Standards Policy
Version: 1.0
Effective Date: June 2026
Publisher: Catherine Kearney Solutions Limited trading as Kearney News
1. Purpose
Kearney News is committed to providing accurate, fair, independent and trustworthy journalism. We recognise the vital role of the media in supporting democratic participation, holding institutions to account and informing communities.
This Editorial Standards Policy sets out the principles that guide our journalism and our commitment to responsible reporting.
2. Editorial Independence
Kearney News maintains complete editorial independence.
Editorial decisions are made solely by the editorial team and are not influenced by:
- Advertisers
- Sponsors
- Donors
- Political organisations
- Commercial partners
- External interest groups
Advertising and editorial content are kept clearly separate at all times.
3. IPSO Principles
Kearney News seeks to operate in accordance with the principles of the Editors’ Code of Practice administered by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO).
Our journalism shall be guided by:
- Accuracy
- Fairness
- Transparency
- Accountability
- Respect for privacy
- Protection of children and vulnerable people
- Public interest reporting
4. Accuracy
We take all reasonable steps to ensure information published is accurate.
This includes:
- Verifying information before publication
- Using reliable and credible sources
- Seeking corroboration where possible
- Clearly distinguishing fact from opinion
- Correcting significant inaccuracies promptly
Information that cannot be independently verified will be clearly identified.
5. Fairness
Individuals and organisations who are the subject of allegations should be given a reasonable opportunity to respond before publication whenever practicable.
Reports must be balanced and avoid misleading presentation.
6. Sources
Journalists should:
- Identify sources wherever possible
- Protect confidential sources where legally and ethically appropriate
- Verify anonymous source information before publication
- Avoid publishing rumours as fact
7. Distinction Between News and Opinion
Opinion content shall be clearly labelled.
Readers should be able to distinguish between:
- News reporting
- Analysis
- Opinion
- Sponsored content
- Advertising
8. Corrections
Where significant errors are identified:
- Corrections will be published promptly.
- Clarifications will be issued where necessary.
- Serious inaccuracies will be corrected with due prominence.
A record of corrections may be maintained for transparency.
9. Privacy
Kearney News respects the privacy of individuals.
Information relating to personal lives will only be published where:
- Consent has been obtained; or
- Publication is justified in the public interest; or
- Information is already lawfully available in the public domain.
10. Children and Vulnerable Persons
Special care will be taken when reporting on:
- Children under 18
- Vulnerable adults
- Victims of crime
- Individuals affected by trauma
Journalists must consider potential harm before publication.
11. Discrimination
Kearney News does not tolerate discriminatory reporting.
References to:
- Disability
- Race
- Religion
- Gender
- Sexual orientation
- Age
- Nationality
will only be included where genuinely relevant to the story.
12. Disability Inclusion
As an organisation committed to disability inclusion, Kearney News strives to:
- Promote accessible journalism
- Use respectful language
- Challenge stereotypes
- Ensure disabled voices are represented fairly
- Improve accessibility of our digital services
13. Armed Forces Covenant
Kearney News recognises the contribution of serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families.
We support the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant and seek to ensure fair and respectful reporting relating to the Armed Forces community.
14. Transparency
Where material has been amended after publication, readers should be informed where appropriate.
Sponsored or commercial relationships will be disclosed clearly.
15. Accountability
Readers may raise concerns regarding editorial content through our Complaints Policy.
Complaints should be submitted in writing and will be investigated fairly and impartially.
16. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required by law, regulation or editorial standards developments.
