Editorial Standards Policy

Purpose

This policy sets out the editorial standards that govern all content produced and broadcast by Towerblock Radio CIC, ensuring quality, integrity, responsibility and compliance with applicable regulations.

Scope

This policy applies to all broadcast content, including live shows, pre-recorded shows, podcasts, interviews, features, social media content and website content produced by or on behalf of Towerblock Radio CIC.

Definitions

• Editorial content means content that is curated, produced or presented by Towerblock Radio CIC, including music selection, spoken word, interviews and features.
• Ofcom Broadcasting Code means the standards framework for broadcast content published by Ofcom.
• Due impartiality means a balanced and fair approach to controversial subjects.

Responsibilities

The board approves the editorial standards policy. The Programming Lead is responsible for implementation. DJs, presenters and contributors follow the standards.

Policy Statement

Towerblock Radio CIC is committed to editorial standards that promote quality, accuracy, fairness, integrity and responsibility, while supporting the authentic underground music culture the station represents.

Detailed Procedures

Accuracy and integrity

• Content must be accurate and not misleading.
• Presenters must not knowingly broadcast false information.
• Corrections must be made promptly if errors are identified.
• Sources should be credible and verified where claims are made.

Impartiality and fairness

• Towerblock Radio CIC is a music and community station, not a political broadcaster. However, where controversial subjects are discussed, presenters should approach them fairly.
• Contributors must be treated fairly.
• People must not be unfairly criticised or misrepresented on air.

Harm and offence

• Content must not incite violence, hatred or discrimination.
• Presenters must avoid content that could cause unnecessary harm or distress, particularly to children and vulnerable people.
• Suicide and self-harm should be handled sensitively, with signposting to support services.
• Strong language, sexual content and disturbing material should be appropriate for the time of broadcast and audience.

Protecting the under-18s

• Content that is unsuitable for children must be broadcast after the watershed (9pm).
• Explicit music should be flagged and played at appropriate times.
• Presenters must not encourage dangerous or illegal behaviour.

Music standards

• DJs should credit artists and labels where reasonably possible.
• DJs must follow the Music Submission Terms and Copyright Compliance Policy.
• Stolen, leaked or unauthorised music must not be knowingly played.
• DJs should respect promo and dubplate conditions.

Guest contributors

• Guests must be briefed on editorial standards before appearing.
• Guests must not use the platform to promote hatred, violence or illegal activity.
• Pre-recorded interviews should be reviewed before broadcast if there is any concern about content.

Social media

• Content published on Towerblock Radio CIC social media must follow the Social Media Policy.
• Presenters speaking in a personal capacity on social media should not bring the station into disrepute.

Right of reply

If someone is criticised on air, they should be given a right of reply where appropriate and practical.

Reporting Process

Concerns about editorial standards should be reported to the Programming Lead or via the Complaints Policy.

Compliance Requirements

• Ofcom Broadcasting Code (where applicable to online broadcasting).
• Communications Act 2003.
• Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.
• Equality Act 2010.
• Malicious Communications Act 1988.

Monitoring

The Programming Lead monitors content for compliance with editorial standards. The board reviews editorial standards annually.

Review Cycle

This policy shall be reviewed annually.

Version Number

Version 1.0

Approval Section

Approved by: Towerblock Radio CIC Board Date: July 2026 Next review: July 2027

Related Policies

• Code of Conduct for DJs
• Live Broadcast Policy
• Copyright Compliance Policy
• Broadcast Complaints Procedure
• Social Media Policy

Website URL slug

/policies/editorial-standards-policy

Meta Title

Editorial Standards Policy | Towerblock Radio

Meta Description

Towerblock Radio CIC's editorial standards policy covering accuracy, impartiality, harm and offence, protecting under-18s, music standards and guest contributors.

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Broadcasting

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editorial standards, Ofcom Broadcasting Code, accuracy, impartiality, watershed, content standards