NCB Now: Handling the media after a death
William Gore
Monday, January 24, 2011
Dealing with the death of a loved one is never easy. Add to this an interested media and pressures can become hard to bear, especially when children's grief is being exposed.
However, there are limits to what the press can report and on how journalists seek information about matters involving grief and shock. These are set out in the Editors' Code of Practice, administered by the Press Complaints Commission (PCC). The code also has special provisions to protect children under 16 from intrusion.
If these rules appear not to have been followed, the PCC can investigate. However, we recognise that prevention is better than cure and we also work to try to avoid problems arising in the first place.
It is important that those supporting bereaved families are aware of the services the PCC can provide. For example, families can (in certain circumstances) contact the PCC and request that it circulate an advisory notice to the media on their behalf. This will make clear that they have no desire to comment and wish to be left alone to grieve privately. PCC staff are available to advise informally at any time. Visit www.pcc.org.uk for more details.
William Gore, public affairs director, Press Complaints Commission
