Independent news outlets in Scotland warn of being left behind. The UK and Wales invest in local journalism, but Scottish publishers are excluded. Calls grow for a dedicated Scottish Local News Fund.
Independent publishers across Scotland are calling on the Scottish Government to create a Local News Fund, after the UK Government launched a £12 million initiative that excludes Scottish outlets in its first year due to devolved powers. This move has raised concerns among local media leaders about the future of independent journalism in Scotland and its ability to compete for resources and audience attention.
The Scottish Beacon, a network of more than 25 news organizations, coordinated an open letter highlighting that while publishers in Wales can access both the UK and their own government’s fund, Scottish publishers currently have no such support. The letter argues that strong local reporting is essential for democracy, accountability, and combating misinformation, but warns that without targeted investment, many Scottish communities could lose access to trusted news sources.
Publishers propose three key actions: establishing a Scottish Local News Fund, directing more public sector advertising to local outlets, and launching funded journalism placements that are accessible to independent publishers. Industry voices from organizations such as Shetland News and Greater Govanhill say they are already serving communities with limited resources and should receive the same public investment as their counterparts in other UK nations.
The Scottish Beacon is inviting journalists, publishers, and the public to join the campaign for stronger local news. The open letter and a sign-up form are available for those who wish to support the initiative. This push for funding comes as other regions, including the US, have seen new investments in local journalism models, such as the recent expansion of Village Media’s local newsroom network in partnership with the Knight Foundation.
For more details, readers can access the open letter and add their names to the campaign through The Scottish Beacon’s website.
