Independent publishers across Scotland are urging the Scottish Government to establish a dedicated Local News Fund and invest more in local journalism, following the UK Government’s launch of a £12 million Local News Fund that, , due to devolved powers, excludes Scottish outlets in its first year.

Coordinated by The Scottish Beacon, a network of over 25 news organisations, an open letter highlights that Wales offers publishers access to both the UK and its own government fund, while Scotland currently has neither.

The publishers argue that robust local reporting is the foundation of healthy democracy, holding power to account and battling misinformation — but warn that without support, many Scottish communities risk being left without trusted news sources. They propose three steps: create a Scottish Local News Fund, direct more public advertising to local publishers, and launch funded journalism placements accessible to independents.

Industry voices from outlets such as Shetland News and Greater Govanhill say the sector is already serving communities on limited resources and deserves the same public investment as other UK nations. The Scottish Beacon invites journalists, publishers and the public to support strong local news by joining the campaign.

Read the open letter and add your name now.

This article was drafted by an AI assistant before it was edited by a human.

Share with a colleague

Written by

Jacob Granger
Jacob Granger
Jacob Granger is the community editor of JournalismUK

Comments