The Journalists’ Charity plans to expand its reach 164 years after it was set up by Charles Dickens.
The charity provides financial support and advice to journalists looking for help, whether they are new to the industry or have been working journalists all their life.
Speaking at the Newsrewired conference last week (22 May 2024), head of engagements and partnerships Mary Kearns encouraged journalists of all levels of experience to see if they are eligible for support.
Included in its services is the First Jobs Fund, which provides financial backing for new starters in the first two years of industry. The Charity might provide funds for relocation, transportation or essential kit.
Cost of living increases and changes in both press and broadcast media have made the efforts of the journalists’ charity more important than ever before.
Kearns says: “Our history and reputation means we are pretty well connected and want to continue to collaborate more and more with others so we can make sure what we are offering is relevant and is having an impact.”
Journalists are encouraged to sign up to the journalists’ charity mailing list to stay connected.
“Not enough people know we exist,” she adds. “So we want to reach out to those in need, which might be a friend or family member of yours or maybe even yourself one day.”
