The Great Central Gazette takes a more in-depth approach to local news and issues, focusing on investigative journalism and the stories that often go untold.
By Rhys Everquill
The team and I believe that the traditional model of local newspapers is no longer sustainable, as journalists are often required to churn out excessive numbers of stories each day to reach arbitrary page view targets. We aim to do things differently, with a focus on quality journalism that is not reliant on online ads, clickbait headlines, or sensationalism. The paper plans to rely on reader-funded investigative journalism to create genuine change in Leicester in the long term.
Anyone can become a member from £2 per month, with the option to contribute more. We are a co-operative, inspired by The Bristol Cable and the Manchester Meteor.
The launch of the Great Central Gazette has been met with excitement from the community in Leicester, with many people eager to see a new approach to local news. We are overwhelmed by all the support we have seen so far, just seven months into our journey.
Trust in local journalism
The Great Central Gazette comes at a time when trust in journalism is at an all-time low. By offering quality reporting that is not beholden to corporate interests, we hope to restore trust in local media and create a more informed and engaged community.
Soon after our launch, we joined Impress, the independent press regulator compliant with Leveson’s recommendations. We believe in the importance of ethical journalism and media accountability. There are other codes and other ways to self-regulate the press and media. But nothing is as robust as The Impress Standards Code.
Their trustmark (displayed on our website, in the footer) is a mark of best practice. Impress protects us from high legal costs and offers personalised advice on journalism ethics, and in an ever-changing landscape, they work to make sure that news providers like the Great Central Gazette can publish with integrity.
Impress is a champion for news that can be trusted.
How to support our work
As a not-for-profit, every penny the Great Central Gazette receives goes directly into the newspaper. Donating any amount will fuel our mission of delivering high-quality journalism to the public.
Learn more about donating here and subscribe to our newsletter here.
Rhys Everquill co-founded the Great Central Gazette, an independent and not-for-profit newspaper in Leicester, along with Emma Guy and Megan Lupton. He speaks about why he set up The Gazette and why they joined Impress. Learn more here and subscribe to their newsletter here.