Information for staff

This page tells you what makes a good story and why it is good for the university to share news with the media

What makes a good story?

Journalists are bombarded on a daily basis with a huge volume of press releases and e-mails vying for their attention. In addition journalists work under the constant pressure of daily deadlines, and are in competition with other news organisations to be 'first' with a story.

A press release must grab attention and must follow some basic rules in order to get past the first hurdle and get placed on the news agenda.

In very general terms a good news story must be new to readers, it should surprise, entertain and potentially change the reader’s perceptions. It should also be of direct relevance to readers and key ingredients such as people, money, drama and extremes - for instance latest, first, biggest, fastest - are most likely to attract the attention of journalists.

Why should the University share news with the media?

• As a publicly funded institution the University has a duty to share its findings and research with the wider public. Publicising its work via the media is one of the best ways for the University to reach a wide public audience.
• Positive media coverage enhances the reputation of the University and raises awareness of UWE's activities.
• A consistent and positive presence in the media supports and enhances other University activities such as student recruitment and relations with business and industry.
• Planned and positive media coverage can have an important part to play both in winning research bids and in gathering interest from further collaborators.
• A good ongoing relationship with the media through regular positive media stories also pays dividends when it comes to managing sensitive or negative media coverage.
• Communicating via the media is also a cost effective way to reach a large audience.

What makes a good news story at UWE?

From research results, winning funding bids, stories about students successes, events and conferences there are a wealth of potential good news stories at UWE.

• Is your research project about to report?
• Have you won an important contract, secured funding, or agreed an important collaboration?
• Is your area of expertise getting significant topical news coverage?
• Do you know about a student who has won a prize or performed brilliantly against difficult odds?
• Have you published a new book or are you planning an event, conference or seminar?
• Are you involved with a charity which is raising money for a good cause?

If you think you have a news story...

...contact the Press Office. We are always looking for interesting stories that will raise the local and national profile of the University through the media. We are keen to maximise all opportunities to promote the excellent work which goes on at UWE.

Tell us about your news by calling us on ext. 82208 or email mary.price@uwe.ac.uk and jane.kelly@uwe.ac.uk, or lesley.drake@uwe.ac.uk ext. 82352.