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Code of Conduct

THE Co-operative News is the unique and independent voice of co-operative enterprises and strives to report on and promote co-operation and mutuality in the UK and worldwide. This statement, agreed by the Board of Co-operative Press, sets out the main editorial principles on which the paper and website are based.

The Board of the Co-operative Press Limited and the Editor of the Co-operative News and thenews.coop are resolved to abide by the principles set out here and if any reader, advertiser, society, group or organisation has any reason for complaint, they should in the first instance contact the Editor at the address published in the Contact Us section. Our complaints procedure is set out as part of the text that follows.

1. The Co-operative News and associated website are independent co-operative publications adhering to the Co-operative Principles as restated by the International Co-operative Alliance in 1995.
2. Our editorial policies will remain independent of individual co-operative ventures and other organisations, although we shall always endeavour to speak for and on behalf of those individuals or organisations belonging to, or whose aims are sympathetic towards, the broad UK Co-operative Movement.
3. Views expressed in the News or on the website will not necessarily be those of the editorial staff or the Board of Co-operative Press Ltd.
4. In striving to report events and developments fairly and accurately, the editorial staff will aim to be balanced in their coverage.
5. The staff will at all times aim to comply with the professional Code of Conduct established by the National Union of Journalists.*
6. If and when perceived errors relating to accuracy, taste or editorial judgement occur, the Editor should be informed immediately and steps will be taken to address any bona fide issues raised, either through the editorial columns or a reader's letter, as swiftly as practicable.
7. Where it is felt that the procedure set out in paragraph 6 has not satisfactorily resolved a specific problem, complainants are invited to contact the Secretary of Co-operative Press Limited, who will on request refer the issue either to the Chair or to the whole Board for consideration and action at the earliest time practicable.
8. The Co-operative Press is opposed to all forms of sexism, racism and any other form of discrimination that denies individuals their basic human rights. Our employment practices and our editorial stance will strive to reflect this viewpoint.

• To view the NUJ Code of Conduct visit the National Union of Journalists or call 0207 843 3714 to request a printed copy.

Other co-operative News sites:

• ethical reporter
• credit union News
• social enterprise News