According to Newsworks’ research most Brits (62%) believe journalists are playing a “valuable role” in covering the cost-of-living crisis.
The survey of 2,000 people by OnePoll also found that 36% of people believe journalism is more important now than before the crisis started – while nearly half of respondents believe journalism maintains its importance, and the role in plays in society today.
Of those surveyed who believe that without a free press the crisis would be much worse, six in 10 said that it would mean there would be no pressure on big businesses to keep costs down because people would be unaware of what competition was available.
The research, commissioned by Newsworks for Journalism Matters, revealed the five top roles journalists perform that are helping respondents navigate through these difficult times. These include:
- raising important issues that may never otherwise come to light
- providing information and advice to readers so that they can make informed decisions
- unpicking complicated government policies and explaining what this means to everyday life
- challenging policies and decisions made by food, energy and service providers
- reporting the facts and providing opinion
The study showed that 55% of people believe “that local and national newspapers are playing different but equally valuable roles” for their readers and communities.
Three-quarters of all respondents also think advertisers should be investing more or the same in trusted journalism so they can continue to cover the big issues like the cost of living.
Jo Allan, Newsworks CEO, said: “This research demonstrates the significant role journalism plays in people’s lives, which is especially vital in these incredibly difficult times.
“Trusted journalism helps provide people with a clear understanding of what is going on in the world, and how it affects them day-to-day. Quality journalism also offers vital information and advice while challenging the powerful by scrutinising every decision made. And given the current global economic backdrop and political chaos here in the UK the role of journalists couldn’t be more vital right now.”
News Media Association chief executive Owen Meredith said: “Journalism Matters is an annual celebration of the enormous value local, regional and national news media brands create for our democratic society, in so many different ways. In an increasingly complex world, the role of trusted and accurate news and information will become more important than ever before.”
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