We helped change the way the BBC reports on political issues.
Disproportionate level of coverage
Professor Justin Lewis and Dr Stephen Cushion of the School of Journalism, Media and Culture examined how devolution was reported in UK-wide BBC network television and radio news, BBC network factual programmes and BBC online news. They analysed more than 4,500 news items and uncovered a series of shortcomings in both the quality and accuracy of broadcast and online journalism.
These included a disproportionate level of coverage focused on London and the South East of England and few discussions or acknowledgement of the distinct policies of devolved governments.
The findings were detailed in a 102 page report which informed a series of recommendations from BBC management. These recommendations were designed to improve coverage and to report political issues in ways that enable citizens to understand what their own governments were doing, as well as the policies and practices pursued elsewhere in the UK.
Enhancing news reporting
The research revealed how BBC coverage had become more attuned to the new world of devolved UK politics and because of the BBC's reach and scope there was a much wider societal impact, with citizens being provided with better access to information about the nature, responsibility and outcomes of democratic decision making.
Follow-up research in 2009 by the Cardiff team showed that there was an increase in reporting from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and that BBC news outlets had begun to use a 'compare and contrast' approach when reporting differences in policy across the UK.
The research was recognised for its impact at the University's prestigious Innovation and Impact Awards, where Professor Lewis and Dr Cushion were awarded the Regional Impact Prize for their work. The team was presented with the award by Jeff Pearson, Chief Executive of Geldards Law Firm, in a ceremony at the University where guests included the First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones.