Simplify: Live Small - Think Big

A story of a dramatic change of lifestyle and great generosity for no conceivable self gain may be of significant interest to the media.  You will find that local outlets are a good place to start. 

At first, communicating through the media may seem daunting, but with a little effort even the most tentative amateur can make effective use of it. Regional and local press and media are more positive towards Christianity than nationals, and are more likely to report your story in a fair way, if you present the facts to them clearly and precisely. A single local news story may be seen by thousands.

We live in an increasingly media-literate society. Everyday we are bombarded with a torrent of messages via television, radio, print and online media outlets. Ideas and opinions are formed by what we see and hear. To communicate effectively in the 21st century, churches and Christian organisations must acquire media skills and learn to present their messages more professionally.

Even if you have never considered yourself brave or interesting enough to contact your local media before, this could be your time to get your good news story heard.

We would love to hear and profile your stories relating to Simplify and can help you present your story in an interesting way to the media. Send your story and/or your contact details to simplify@eauk.org

If you would like to have a go on your own, here are some tips when relating with the media:

• Know your story well and know why it may be of interest. Think about the top one or two points you want to put across before you start, and keep to these in any interviews.

• Compile a list of local media contacts including radio, television, newspapers and new media who you may reasonably expect to run stories you submit.

• Keep conversations with journalists brief and to the point.

• Review local press for relevant articles to establish an understanding of the outlook and style.

• Take a number of good photos that can accompany press releases.

• Contact local radio stations - BBC stations have regular religious programmes each Sunday and even independent stations are keen to hear good local news stories.
• Invite the local press to an appropriate event if you are holding one. Provide them with a mobile number for a contact on the day.

• Ensure consistency by electing a single spokesperson, only issuing material from one source and making sure that all forms of communication (e.g. website) don't contradict each other.

Local broadcast media

Most local BBC radio stations broadcast a Christian based religious programme - usually on a Sunday morning. Consequently, broadcasters are receptive to good local religious stories that will interest their audience. Presenters and producers work together to plan the programme a few weeks in advance, it is best contact them on a Thursday or Friday, or during the weekend.

Local commercial radio stations vary greatly in what subjects they cover, but a strong community story has a good chance of being covered on their news programme. Carefully consider if you want to participate in an 'on-air' discussion, as Christian opinions can be controversial. Occasionally, the station may have a 'thought for the day' or a religious slot, which may welcome contributions from local Christians.

The BBC radio stations in your area are available for England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, local commercial radio stations are also listed.

Local & Regional Newspapers

The simplest way to find out information about local papers is to either visit a newsagent or note which free papers are delivered. Before contacting a publication, it is advised that you familiarise yourself with its content and style.

Publications will normally include details of how to contact them, the names of key staff, and additional information such as circulation figures. When contacting a local newspaper ask for the news editor or a named journalist. If the paper does not cover your event in advance, take some good, clear photos and send a selection of the best ones to the paper. The paper may still print the story - but this will depend on other factors such as other competing local news, the uniqueness of your event or the quality of your photographs.

Use the Newspaper Society's Database of local and regional newspapers in the UK to find your nearest (www.nsdatabase.co.uk).