Standards

Editorial Policy and Corrections

Last updated: 29 September 2026

1. Our standards

We aim to report accurately, fairly and promptly. We try to check facts before we publish, give people who are criticised a chance to respond where we can, and make clear the difference between fact, opinion and rumour.

2. Sources and attribution

Many stories begin with a reader's tip, a public statement or a social media post. We say where information comes from, link or credit the original source, and embed social media posts rather than copying them where possible. We protect sources who ask not to be named.

3. Headlines and images

Headlines should reflect what the story says. Images should be relevant to the story; we avoid graphic images and blur or leave out content that could harm victims or minors.

4. Updates to stories

Developing stories are updated as we learn more. Significant new information is added to the story, and the date it was last updated is shown on the page.

5. Corrections

When we get something wrong we correct it as quickly as we can. Where a correction changes the meaning of a story, we add a note to the story saying what was changed. Minor fixes such as spelling may be made without a note. Stories may be removed when they cannot be corrected, for legal reasons or to protect someone's safety.

6. Advertising and sponsored content

Adverts are shown in clearly marked spaces. Paid or sponsored posts are labelled as such. Advertisers do not decide what we cover or how.

7. Reader comments

Comments are reviewed before they are published. We remove comments that are abusive, hateful, spam or that may be unlawful.

8. Feedback and complaints

To report an error or make a complaint, email [email protected] with a link to the story and what you believe is wrong. More ways to reach us are on our contact page.