Newsroom Policies & Ethics
Our Mission and Responsibility
Barrenside exists to practice local journalism in the public interest. Our success depends on two things: telling the truth and earning the trust of our readers. If our reporting is inaccurate, unfair, or perceived to be influenced by hidden interests, we fail in our mission.
This policy sets out the standards, expectations, and principles that guide our work. While these guidelines are meant to be firm, they are not inflexible.
Journalism requires judgment. When questions arise, discussion is encouraged.
When in doubt, ask.
Editorial Independence
Barrenside maintains a strict separation between editorial decision-making and business operations. Advertising, sponsorships, partnerships, grants, donations, or other financial support do not influence our reporting, story selection, framing, or conclusions.
Our coverage does not constitute an endorsement of any advertiser, sponsor, donor, candidate, organization, or individual.
No individual involved in editorial decision-making may engage in paid political consulting, lobbying, or content creation on behalf of a political candidate, elected official, political party, or lobbying entity. Editorial staff must not hold employment or contractual roles with government entities or organizations they directly cover. Any potential conflicts must be disclosed and addressed prior to assignment.
Ethics and Core Standards
Barrenside follows the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Code of Ethics and is guided by these core principles:
- Seek truth and report it accurately, fairly, and completely.
- Act independently and avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived.
- Minimize harm while recognizing the public’s right to know.
- Be accountable and transparent with our audience.
All staff and contributors share responsibility for upholding these standards.
Accuracy and Verification
Accuracy is fundamental. We verify information before publication whenever possible through documents, direct observation, and reliable sources. When facts cannot be independently confirmed, that limitation is disclosed to readers.
We do not fabricate information, use composite characters, or alter facts, ages, locations, or dates. We do not plagiarize. We do not pay for interviews.
Sources and Attribution
We strive to identify all sources of information. Anonymous sources are used only when a source faces a credible risk of harm or retaliation, the information is of clear public interest, and there is no other reasonable way to obtain it.
The identity of anonymous sources must be known to editorial leadership. When anonymity is granted, we explain to readers why it was necessary and take additional steps to verify the information provided.
We do not misrepresent ourselves to obtain information. Journalists identify themselves as Barrenside reporters when seeking interviews or information.
Fairness and Right of Response
Fairness is essential to credibility. When coverage portrays an individual, organization, or institution in a negative light, we make a good-faith effort to provide a reasonable opportunity to respond prior to publication. What is reasonable may depend on the urgency of the story, but our goal is to avoid surprising people with serious allegations.
If a response is not obtained, we explain the efforts made to reach the involved parties. No story is fair if it omits facts of major importance, misleads the reader, or lacks necessary context.
Conflicts of Interest
Staff and contributors must disclose any personal, financial, professional, or familial relationships that could reasonably be perceived as influencing coverage.
This includes employment, consulting, board service, political activity, donations, or volunteer work connected to subjects we cover.
When a conflict exists, the individual will recuse themselves from the coverage or the conflict will be disclosed to readers.
Public Life and Civic Engagement
Barrenside does not engage in partisan political activity. Editorial staff should avoid political actions that could cause a reasonable reader to question their ability to report fairly or independently on their coverage areas.
Participation in civic, charitable, religious, or community organizations is permitted and encouraged, provided it does not create conflicts of interest or compromise journalistic independence. Potential conflicts should be disclosed to editorial leadership.
Corrections and Accountability
Errors undermine trust and must be addressed promptly. Barrenside corrects mistakes fully, quickly, and transparently. Corrections and substantive updates are clearly noted within or appended to the original content.
Readers are encouraged to report errors or omissions by contacting news@barrenside.com.
Transparency
All content is clearly attributed to its author or creator. We strive to explain how information was obtained and why editorial decisions were made, particularly in complex or sensitive reporting.
If a subject of coverage is also a sponsor, donor, or partner, that relationship will be disclosed.
Coverage of Minors, Victims, and Sensitive Matters
We exercise heightened care when reporting on minors, victims of crime, and traumatic or sensitive events. Names of minors and victims of sexual offenses are generally withheld unless there is a compelling public interest and informed consent.
Graphic content is avoided unless it is essential to understanding the news and serves a clear public purpose.
Community Standards
Barrenside aims to inform without inflaming. We avoid sensationalism, misleading headlines, and unnecessary repetition of harmful stereotypes. We report with context, proportion, and care for the community we serve.
Living Policy
This policy reflects current standards and practices and will evolve as Barrenside grows and as journalism continues to change. Ethical questions are expected and welcomed. When in doubt, we ask, discuss, and act in the best interest of the public.