Communities’ news service hits milestone by sending out its 50,000th story
The Press Association’s partnership with Media Trust, Community Newswire, sent out its 50,000th news story to journalists today.
Set up in July 2004, the service helps grassroots organisations, charities and communities get their stories told, with many seeing their stories published in national newspapers, television, radio, regional and local press.
The service reached its milestone with a story about former army officer Major Phil Packer who is launching the British Inspiration Trust to help young disabled people overcome the depression that is so often an integral but overlooked aspect of their disability.
“Community Newswire were the first to raise awareness of my aspiration to raise £1million for charity. My initial request for support was seen as a much bigger and stronger story. The release from Newswire was sent out to journalists and every national paper and main TV channel and radio station has assisted me since. If it was not for their tremendous support I would not have reached my target within the year and I am sincerely grateful to Community Newswire for giving such vital support,” said Phil.
“The impact of this coverage has helped me to reach in excess of £1.3 million and given me the opportunity to move on and start to support the wider community through my plans for the British Inspiration Trust.”
Phil, who was paralysed while serving in Basra in 2008, raised the cash for Help for Heroes, a charity set up to help those who have been wounded in Britain's current conflicts.
The newswire service has seen more than 15,000 stories getting significant media coverage, in The Daily Mail, The Telegraph, The Times, The Independent, The Guardian, Metro, BBC and on ITV national and local television and radio news, including Radio 4, Heart FM and Radio 5, as well as numerous regional and local media including The Yorkshire Post, Newcastle Chronicle, Leicester Mercury, BBC Radio Leicester, Shine TV, Leicester Sound Radio, Echo and Yellow Advertiser.
Stonham, a charity that helps provide housing and support for vulnerable and socially excluded people also turned to Community Newswire for help when a former client held an art exhibition. Jerry Lyons from Stonham said: “Once the story hit the wire our phone didn’t stop ringing and we gained regional TV and radio coverage. Not only did this coverage raise Stonham’s profile it more importantly lifted our client’s spirits and played a big part in helping him to feel part of society again. Community Newswire service is fabulous, the staff are thorough and know what they are doing.”
David Blunkett MP, who was instrumental in setting up the service said: “Community Newswire has helped thousands upon thousands of charities and community groups gain media coverage. This has resulted in an increase in volunteers, an increase in funds, and an increase in people’s awareness of campaigns.”
And Stephen Mitchell, Deputy Director, BBC News & Head of Programmes, BBC News, said: “Community Newswire does an excellent job by delivering practical advice to voluntary and charity organisations, which means that by the time they engage with the media both sides start with a better understanding of each other.”
To see the latest published stories, including the 50,000th, visit the Community Newswire site.
Find out more on the partnership between Press Association and Community Newswire.
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