Ethics Policy

Editorial Independence

Leeds Today operates with full editorial independence. Our reporting is driven by news value and relevance to the Leeds business community, not by commercial interests, personal relationships, or external pressure.

No individual, business, organisation, or advertiser can influence what we cover, how we cover it, or whether a story is published. Editorial decisions are made solely by our editorial team.

Coverage Cannot Be Purchased

Coverage on Leeds Today is earned, not bought. We do not accept payment in exchange for editorial coverage. Businesses and organisations featured in our reporting appear because their story is newsworthy and relevant to our readers.

Where Leeds Today enters into commercial partnerships, sponsorships, or advertising arrangements, these are clearly separated from editorial content and labelled accordingly.

Conflicts of Interest

Our editorial team is committed to avoiding conflicts of interest. Where a potential conflict exists, for example, if we are reporting on a business with which we have a commercial relationship, we disclose that relationship within the article.

If a member of our team has a personal or financial interest in a story, they will not be involved in its reporting or editorial approval.

Handling of Quotes and Sources

Quotes published on Leeds Today are reproduced exactly as provided. We do not alter, fabricate, or misrepresent the words of any individual. Where quotes are drawn from press releases, official statements, or interviews, the source is clearly identified.

We respect the confidentiality of sources where it has been agreed. Anonymous sourcing is used sparingly and only when there is a clear editorial justification.

Fairness and Balance

We aim to be fair in our reporting. If a story involves criticism of an individual or organisation, we seek comment from the party concerned before publication wherever possible. If comment is declined or not received, we note that in the article.

Our coverage is optimistic about Leeds and its business community, but it is not uncritical. We report on challenges, closures, and difficulties as well as successes and growth, because our readers deserve an honest picture of the local economy.

Diversity and Inclusion

Leeds Today is committed to reflecting the full diversity of the Leeds business community in its coverage. We aim to feature voices and stories from across all sectors, backgrounds, and areas of the city, and we actively seek out underrepresented perspectives.

Complaints

If you believe that Leeds Today has acted in breach of these ethical standards, please contact us at news@leeds.today. We take all complaints seriously and will respond within five working days.

Contact

For questions about our ethics policy, email news@leeds.today.