Local journalism is under threat at a time when communities need more inclusive reporting

The future of local newspapers is under threat, according to parliament’s digital, culture, media & sport committee (DCMS) report released last month.

This report into the sustainability of local journalism comes at a time when public trust in the national media is falling, while online disinformation, polarisation and hatred towards minorities continues to rise.

But my research shows local journalism is capable of providing an important antidote to this. And therefore it should be recognised as an essential element for nurturing our diverse, civic communities.