Community Reporting Fund

Supporting the next generation of community journalists

The Community Reporting Fund (CRF) was established in 2024 to support the Community News Project (CNP).

The CNP is partnership between the NCTJ and regional news publishers to support quality local journalism and improve the diversity of UK newsrooms.

The NCTJ has designated £450,000 from its reserves to establish the CRF and launch a further phase of the project.

We are looking to secure additional funding from external partners to help us continue the legacy of the Community News Project, which has provided opportunities to over 280 people since 2019.

By growing the CRF, we can increase the number of recruits, boost more regional newsrooms, and provide coverage for more local audiences.

A proven model

Given the success of the Community News Project, we are determined to ensure its legacy. Since it was established in 2019, the project has had meaningful impact on communities, newsrooms and the individuals hired as part of the scheme.

280+

reporters trained and placed in underserved areas
80+

communities reached
75%

of reporters come from diverse backgrounds

Empowering the next generation of community journalists

By building on the project’s proven framework, and our partnerships with leading regional publishers and small independent publishers, we aim to train 150 reporters over the next three years, expanding coverage to 120+ underserved areas and building a sustainable pipeline for diverse talent in journalism.

Charity champion Ursula Myrie, from Sheffield, told us how her relationship with a community reporter really made an impact within the black community and helped instil trust in the media. Read more.

"I think it’s really important for every media outlet to have that one person connecting with a particular community."

— Ursula Myrie, founder, Adira

"The CNP gave me the start I needed in this industry and the opportunity to learn and apply new practical skills on the job."

— Mirek Gosney, community reporter, Newbury News

Invest in the future of local journalism

Partner with the NCTJ and support the Community Reporting Fund to sustain and expand this vital initiative.

Get in touch