NCTJ reaches out to all UK journalists for invaluable industry research

The NCTJ is inviting all UK journalists to shine a light on what it means to be a journalist in 2024 by taking part in invaluable industry research.

The NCTJ is inviting all UK journalists to shine a light on what it means to be a journalist in 2024 by taking part in invaluable industry research.

The 15-minute survey, accessible online, is not only an insight into journalists’ experiences across the different media sectors and across the four nations, but an exploration of the issues facing the workforce today.

The 2024 Journalists at Work survey will update similar research conducted in 2002, 2012 and 2018, building a picture of how the industry is evolving over time.

It provides insights for stakeholders in journalism education and the media, so that they are better able to respond to changing skills, reporter needs and the shifting demographics of the industry.

The NCTJ’s research is widely used and frequently cited, both by academics and industry stakeholders, as well as by policy-makers.

Joanne Forbes, NCTJ chief executive, said: “The findings of this research will provide a quantifiable assessment of what it means to be a journalist in 2024.

“It may confirm perceptions about the direction the industry is taking, or contradict them – but it will offer evidence either way.

Mark Spilsbury, research economist, who is working with the NCTJ on Journalists at Work

“And that’s why the varied and multi-faceted day-to-day experiences of journalists around the UK is so vital for this research.

“Brought together, they make up another piece of the puzzle to help us move forward and improve journalism and the news industry for the better.

“Thank you to all the journalists who take part, this wouldn’t be possible without you.”

The 2018 Journalists at Work research reported a greater confidence in the system of regulation and training in ethical issues, and highlighted changes in the ways journalists were sourcing stories using digital tools.

Insights gained from previous reports have informed the NCTJ’s priorities and most notably led to the establishment of the Journalism Diversity Fund and the Journalism Skills Academy.

Issues included for the first time in this year’s survey include the emergence of artificial intelligence, the safety of reporters in the field and the resilience of journalists in newsrooms, and remote and flexible working.

Complete the 2024 survey here.

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