News

The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) Disabled Members Council has issued a statement summoning all journalists to operate within the NUJ’​s recognised code of ethics when reporting on disability issues. Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, confirms the “​NUJ stands up for fair and accurate reporting of disability issues”​ and calls for all journalists “​to think long and hard before writing stories that whip up hatred against disabled people and those with long-term health condition​s”​.

Referring to the “​continuous drip-feed of stories which have promoted a range of inaccurate and generalised accusations”​ against disabled people, the NUJ Disabled Members Council Statement points to the low rate of fraud for incapacity benefit (0.3%) and disability living allowance (0.5%) as opposed to other benefits. It also highlights the fact that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has the highest number of decisions overturned at appeal than any other state department , and draws attention to the fact that there has been little reporting about the poor performance of ATOS Healthcare. All journalists are asked to report fairly about both individuals and groups.

You can read the full story on the NUJ website:
https://www.nujppr.org.uk/site/page.php?category=news&​ref=0&​id=5159&​msg=NEWS&​finds=0