I stand in solidarity with NUJ members defending their rights on the picket line this week, and offer my unwavering support to every Journalist at National World who are engaging in industrial action to safeguard the vital essence of local journalism.

In these challenging times, where information flows like a river, the role of high-quality reporting in uniting and informing our communities cannot be overstated. As we navigate the evolving landscape of news and media, it’s imperative that we continue to champion the cause of responsible journalism, which forms the bedrock of our democratic society.

Local journalism holds a unique and invaluable place in our democracy. In an era where the online world is saturated with a deluge of fake news and sensationalised conspiracy reports masquerading as genuine news, local journalism remains a tried, tested, and trusted source of information.

National World titles like the Sunderland Echo, with their 150-year history, and the Hartlepool Mail, stand as pillars of journalistic integrity and reliability. These local papers serve as the bedrock of our communities, chronicling our shared history, and offering a steady, dependable source of news. They are more than just newspapers; they are our local papers of record, documenting the events that shape our communities and the stories that define our lives.

In a world where misinformation is rampant, local journalism’s commitment to accuracy, accountability, and the pursuit of truth is a beacon of light, ensuring that we remain well-informed, connected, and able to trust the news we rely on.

The value of journalism in our society cannot be overstated. Journalists play a pivotal role in upholding the pillars of democracy and ensuring the free flow of information.

While governments often speak of external threats from nations like China and Russia, it is crucial to recognise that there exists a domestic threat as well – the erosion of our trusted news sources. In an era rife with fake news and misinformation, the only effective antidote is real news, brought to us by dedicated journalists who listen, investigate, and report on the stories that our communities hold dear. It is imperative that we not only protect but also value these journalists who work tirelessly to deliver accurate, reliable, and trustworthy information.

I wholeheartedly endorse the journalists’ vote of no confidence in the National World executive chairman and board. Their refusal to engage in discussions about remuneration, coupled with growing pay disparities within newsrooms, is deeply concerning. It means that newly qualified senior reporters in some regions are left with salaries of less than £23,000 per year, a stark contrast to the minimum senior reporter rate of £31,200 at fellow regional publisher Reach.

Moreover, the failure to update pay scales for new starters and promoted staff since 2019 is an attack on the dedication and professionalism of our journalistic workforce. To safeguard the future of reliable journalism, we must address these issues head-on and ensure that our journalists are fairly compensated for their essential contributions to our society and democracy.

National World business model is fundamentally flawed, prioritising short term gains at the expense of long-term sustainability.  By hollowing out titles to boost immediate profits, the company risks inflicting irreparable damage on its journalistic integrity and eroding the trust of its readership.

The prioritisation of shareholder pay-outs over the ability of journalists to effectively carry out their vital roles undermines the very foundation of quality reporting. Cutting staff to unsustainable levels, not only jeopardising the business’s long-term viability but also placing an untenable burden on the well-being of its staff.

National World must become a responsible guardian of our press, and this starts by respecting and valuing journalist. This is a campaign journalists must win if we are to preserve and nurture the vital and vibrant local media landscape, which is the very lifeblood of a free and democratic society.