Grant News

The UK government has announced up to £12 million in funding to support local journalism as part of a new national strategy.

The funding, to be distributed over two years, sits at the heart of the government’s Amplify plan, unveiled by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

A significant portion of the funding will go towards a newly created Local News Fund, which will back innovation projects and help publishers develop more sustainable business models. The investment is also intended to help local news organisations expand their reporting capacity and improve coverage in areas with little or no local news provision, often described as “news deserts.”

Alongside the £12 million package, the government confirmed it will continue providing around £1 million annually to support community radio stations.

Ministers said additional financial support will come indirectly through increased public sector advertising in local media, giving publishers a more reliable and consistent source of income.

The funding forms part of a wider effort to secure the future of local journalism. Plans include encouraging more young people into the profession through school outreach and clearer career pathways, as well as launching a Regional Media Forum pilot to strengthen cooperation between media organisations and public bodies.

Wider issues affecting the sector, including the role of digital platforms, the impact of artificial intelligence, and the BBC’s position in local news, will be examined as part of the strategy.

Further details on how the money will be allocated will be announced in due course.