Bridging the Gap – Local News Research Meets Practice

Bridging the Gap – Local News Research Meets Practice

Hosted by: MeCCSA Local and Community Media (LCM) Section

Join us for a roundtable bringing together industry insiders, journalists, policymakers, professional bodies, and academic researchers to explore how research can better inform the future of local journalism. At a time when local media faces unprecedented challenges but also new opportunities, this event aims to bridge the gap between research and practice, strengthening dialogue between academics, industry, and policymakers.

The discussion will focus on the role of local news research in supporting practice, policy, and innovation. Together, we will consider what kinds of research are most valuable and relevant for industry, policymakers, and professional bodies, and reflect on the most pressing research gaps in local media and journalism today. The session will also ask how deeper engagement and collaboration between industry, policymakers, academics, and other stakeholders might strengthen local media in the UK.

Confirmed speakers:

• Thomas Barlow, Impress
• Ian Carter, Iliffe Media
• Sarah Hartley, The Northern Eco
• Jonathan Heawood, PINF
• Madeleine Jennings, Local Trust
• Dr Martin Moore, King’s College London
• John William, Ofcom

The webinar will also feature the launch of the report: Challenges and Opportunities for UK Local Media: Insights from Academic Research by Simona Bisiani and Dr Agnes Gulyas.