New guidance from the NUJ and International Professional Security Association

  • 16 Mar 2022

Guidelines for journalists and private security officers aims to improve working relationships.

The National Union of Journalists has worked collaboratively with the International Professional Security Association (IPSA) to produce new guidelines for engagement between journalists and private security officers (PSOs).  

The guidance aims to support PSOs in understanding the role of journalists and encourage good working relationships, that allow both journalists and PSOs to conduct their work.  It includes information on the UK Press card, the Security Industry Authority card and practical ways to resolve disputes.

Welcoming its publication, Natasha Hirst, NUJ vice president and chair of NUJ photographers’ council said: 

"There is no legal requirement for PSOs to receive training on engaging with journalists. We are pleased to be working with IPSA to fill this knowledge gap.

"We have started an essential conversation about the important role of journalists and how best private security officers can respond when journalists seek to document or report on incidents. Equally, our members will gain a better insight into the role of PSOs who will often be working to the instructions of employers which may conflict with journalists' rights to report.  

"The guidance provides key tips for verifying each other’s accreditation and resolving disputes. We will continue to work with IPSA to develop further training for PSOs, and take forward constructive conversations to employers and contractors responsible for instructing PSOs at work."

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