COFAX expects everyone involved in its journalism to act with accuracy, independence, fairness, humanity and accountability. This policy draws on established UK newsroom practice, including the principles reflected in the Editors’ Code of Practice. COFAX is not claiming IPSO membership or regulation unless that status is stated separately.
Public interest
Intrusive reporting methods or publication of sensitive information require a clear and proportionate public-interest justification. Public interest may include exposing crime or serious wrongdoing, protecting public health or safety, preventing the public from being misled, contributing to an important public debate or revealing a serious failure of responsibility.
Privacy, dignity and harm
- We respect private and family life and consider reasonable expectations of privacy.
- We approach grief, trauma, illness and vulnerability with sensitivity.
- We take particular care with children and do not identify victims of sexual offences where the law or ethical standards require anonymity.
- We avoid prejudicial references to protected or personal characteristics unless they are genuinely relevant.
- We do not engage in intimidation, harassment or persistent pursuit.
Gathering information
Journalists identify themselves and COFAX when making enquiries unless an editor has approved a proportionate public-interest exception. Deception, hidden recording, unauthorised access and other forms of subterfuge are not used where information can reasonably be obtained openly.
Independence and conflicts
Editorial decisions are not bought by advertisers, sponsors, donors or subjects of coverage. Contributors disclose financial, political, family or personal interests relevant to an assignment. Journalists must not trade on unpublished financial information, plagiarise, accept improper benefits or present paid material as independent reporting.
Accountability
Material mistakes are corrected transparently. Ethical concerns and complaints can be raised through the Complaints Procedure or Contact page.
Last reviewed: 4 August 2026.