Local news still at the heart of the community

And that’s why we should all be celebrating Local Newspaper Week.

Local papers give their readers a voice, empowering them to bring about real change. This is often achieved through campaigning.

Local papers are in a unique position to listen to the concerns of their readers, pinpoint the issues that matter to them, and galvanise support for a particular cause.

Digital technology has given the industry new platforms on which to do this important work.

Through social media, a local newspaper campaign can get results within hours.

Digital doesn’t replace the power and impact of a printed front page, it complements and enhances it.

Local newsbrands are reaching more people than ever before – 40 million people read a local paper in print or online every week.

And many of these people are actively engaging with their local newspaper and the issues being covered. This engagement is not surprising when you consider how deeply most people care about their community.

Life is local – research shows that nine out of 10 people spend the majority of their time and money within five miles of home.

Local newspapers have a unique ability to make a difference to people’s lives and that’s exactly what we are celebrating during this year’s Making a Difference and Local Newspaper Week.