This policy explains the standards applied to journalism published by COFAX. It applies to staff, freelance contributors and commissioned work.
Accuracy and verification
- We verify material facts before publication and use primary documents, direct observation and named expert sources wherever practical.
- Headlines, captions, images and social posts must accurately reflect the underlying reporting.
- Statistics are presented with their source, relevant period and necessary context.
- Rumour, allegation and confirmed fact are clearly distinguished.
Sources and attribution
We identify sources whenever possible and link to original documents or data that readers can inspect. Anonymous sources are used only when the information is in the public interest, the source faces a credible risk from being named and the information can be independently corroborated. An editor must approve anonymity.
Fairness and right of reply
People and organisations facing significant criticism or allegations should be given a reasonable opportunity to respond before publication. We represent relevant responses fairly and do not knowingly omit facts that would materially change the meaning of a story.
Editorial independence
Editorial decisions are made independently of advertisers, sponsors, donors and commercial partners. Paid, sponsored or affiliate content is clearly labelled. Commercial relationships do not guarantee coverage and do not give a partner the right to approve editorial copy.
Conflicts of interest
Contributors must disclose financial, personal or political interests that could reasonably be seen as influencing their work. Material conflicts are disclosed to readers or the assignment is given to another journalist.
Opinion and analysis
News reporting, analysis and opinion are labelled and presented distinctly. Opinion writers may express a point of view, but factual claims remain subject to the same standards of accuracy and correction.
Artificial intelligence
Automated tools may assist with transcription, translation, research organisation, data analysis or production tasks. A human editor remains responsible for every published item. We do not publish an AI-generated factual claim, quotation or image as authentic without human verification and appropriate disclosure.
Images, privacy and harm
Images must be relevant, accurately captioned and used with appropriate rights. Manipulated or illustrative images are labelled. We balance the public interest against privacy, dignity, safety and the risk of avoidable harm, particularly where children or vulnerable people are involved.
Corrections and complaints
Material errors are corrected promptly and transparently under our Corrections Policy. Readers can submit a correction request or editorial complaint through the Contact page.
Last reviewed: 4 August 2026.