Community journalism – get involved

Leading researchers, thinkers and community journalism practitioners are invited to a conference at the University in the New Year to look at innovation and opportunity in this fast evolving sector.

Hosted by the Centre for Community Journalism in the School of Journalism Media and Cultural Studies, the conference takes place on Wednesday 16 January 2013 and will explore the latest research and hands on experience in hyperlocal and community journalism.

The conference will also examine the potential for engaging and empowering communities using digital technologies and social networks in innovative, low cost and sustainable ways.

Professor Richard Sambrook, Director of the Centre for Journalism in the School said: "Community journalism is emerging as a vibrant way of filling the news gap left by the contraction of local newspapers with some exiting and inspiring examples of what can be done at low cost with passion, skill and persistence. This sector has huge potential for carving out a new, independent space created by and for communities. Local people need the glue of shared information and opinion about what's on their doorstep as well as a place to have their voice heard.

"Like all emerging areas of enterprise, there is a need to nurture and network practitioners and to learn more about what is happening and key factors for success. That is why Cardiff's Centre for Community Journalism is bringing together leading players in the field."

Speakers at the conference will include Jan Schaffer, MD of the Institute for Interactive Journalism at Washington DC and Damian Radcliffe, author of the first review of the sector in the UK.

More details, including how to register for the event can be found at:
http://cardiff.ac.uk/jomec/conference/community_journalism_conference/index.html