1. Accuracy
- We focus on providing accurate and reliable information. All content must be checked for facts, and any mistakes should be corrected quickly and clearly.
2. Impartiality and Fairness
- We cover all sides of important issues to stay fair. We include a variety of viewpoints and do not favor one side over another.
3. Avoiding Harm and Offence
- We take care not to publish content that could hurt or offend people unless it’s necessary for the story. If we do, we will give warnings and explain why.
4. Re-using Content
- When we update or re-use content, we make sure it’s clear to our readers. The original meaning should stay the same to keep the content accurate.
5. Independence
- Our decisions are made independently, without influence from politics, businesses, or personal interests. Any links or references to other sites are chosen based on their relevance to the content, not external pressures.
6. External Relationships
- We are open about any partnerships or financial relationships, and they will not affect our editorial decisions. Links to other websites must have a clear editorial purpose and shouldn’t look like we’re endorsing those sites.
Key Points:
- Links to Other Sites: Links should be relevant and necessary for the content. We never include links in exchange for payment. The sites we link to should share our values, especially on sensitive topics.
- Fairness: When covering controversial issues, we make sure to link to a balanced range of opinions. We always check linked content to ensure it meets our standards.
- Transparency and Responsibility: We are responsible for all content on our site, including any third-party content we use. We clearly indicate when content comes from another source and make it easy for users to report problems.
- Avoiding Promoting Products: We avoid giving too much attention to any products or brands. Links to commercial sites are included only when necessary and not to promote them.
- Charity and Public Service Content: When linking to charities or other organizations, we ensure the links are fair and balanced, especially when multiple organizations are involved.
- Commercial Relationships: Links to commercial sites from The Times Beats will only be included when there is a good editorial reason, ensuring we do not promote or endorse these sites.
By following these guidelines, The Times Beats ensures that its content remains trustworthy, fair, and of high quality.