Don’t write off the local media, NCTJ chief executive tells Westminster forum

NCTJ chief executive Joanne Butcher addressed the Westminster Media Forum this month as part of a panel session on the future of local media: plurality, revenue models and policy priorities.

In her address, Joanne discussed the changing media landscape and what it means for the journalism skills agenda. She told an audience of media professionals, academics and policy makers that local media remained a “fertile and innovative” training ground for young journalists, who need to be taught the editorial and commercial skills needed to keep up with a fast-changing industry.

The seminar, which examined the future of the UK’s local media markets, next steps for developing sustainable commercial models for local content, and the future for high-quality services that meet local needs, took place at the Royal Over-Seas League, London on 21 April.

The full text of Joanne's speech can be seen on the latest Training Matters blog for HoldtheFrontPage.