Codes of Conduct update

There are 4 main codes of conduct that apply to journalists and news organisations.

1. NUJ – National Union of Journalists 

This is the primary body for journalists and is followed by the major media organisations.

2. IPSO – Independent Press Standards Organisation 

This has replaced the PCC (Press Complaints Commission). It’s the code that will adopt some key areas of the Editors Code of Practice. It’s the press body for journalists working for newspapers, magazines and online publications.

3. OFCOM – The Office of Communications 

This is the broadcasting code for television and radio

4. BBC Guidelines 

The BBC conduct their own standards and values

All these codes are important because it guides journalists through ethical issues and provides a benchmark for behaviour. The law is specific and very limited. Journalists must reassure audiences that they can build their trust.

Codes of Conduct

There are four codes of conduct that apply to journalists.

1. The NUJ (National Union of Journalists): is the primary body for journalists and is followed by the majority of media organisations.

2. The PCC – Press Complaints Commission and the Editor’s Code of Practice: this is the code that editors follow and it protects peoples’ privacy. News International follows this and if anyone breaks the code, they will be sacked from the Murdoch empire.

3. BBC Producer Guidelines (standards and values): have their own set of guidelines and also have their own regulation as the BBC Trust.

4. OFCOM Broadcasting Code: corresponds to broadcasting organisations from ITV to commercial radio. Except SKY which is under the Murdoch empire.