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THE ITV true crime drama:- 'The Hack' has brought phone hacking and its devastating human impact back into the public eye. But while the series is rooted in events of the past, phone hacking cases are still moving through the UK Courts, and the issues at stake are far from over. Press harm is not just a historic issue.

Against this backdrop, the Press Recognition Panel (PRP) has launched its annual Call for Information to gather views on press regulation in the UK. Established by Royal Charter in 2014 following the Leveson Inquiry, the PRP oversees the Recognition System for independent press self regulation, designed to protect the public from press harm while safeguarding freedom of speech. It operates entirely independently of Government, Parliament, the press industry, or any other third party.

Under the system, press regulators can apply to be formally recognised, giving the public confidence that they act independently, are financially secure, apply robust standards, run fair, transparent complaints processes, and provide affordable arbitration as an alternative to the Courts. Participation is voluntary. IMPRESS, the UK’s first and only Approved Regulator, was recognised in 2016 following a full independent assessment and has since passed three cyclical reviews confirming its independence and effectiveness.

The call for information will inform the PRP’s 10th Annual Report on the Recognition System – an opportunity not just to reflect on progress made, but to explore how the system continues to respond to an ever-changing news landscape.

Kathryn Cearns OBE, Chair of the Press Recognition Panel (PRP), says:- "The Hack is a timely reminder of the harm press misconduct can cause. While it is set in the past, cases are still before the courts, and concerns about press standards continue today. The Recognition System offers a proven model of independent press regulation, and each year, we are required to report on its effectiveness and the extent to which it covers all relevant publishers. This call for information is a chance for anyone with an interest in press standards and accountability to share their experiences and evidence to help shape that assessment."

The PRP is currently looking for evidence and experiences from:- the public, journalists, academics, campaigners, politicians, news publishers, and other media organisations under 4 key questions and asking them to take part in the debate:

How effectively is the public protected from harm caused by news publishers? Harm includes, but is not limited to, misreporting, unjustified intrusion, or coverage that unfairly targets or stereotypes diverse groups.

What more can be done to ensure people affected by press harm can seek redress? Who has, or should have, a role to play in making this happen, for example, the justice system, politicians, the press, or regulators, and what factors affect whether they act?

Is there anything more the Recognition System should consider to meet the changes in how news is being produced and distributed, for example, through social media and AI tools, so that it continues to protect the public and uphold press standards into the future?

What factors encourage or discourage news publishers from participating in the Recognition System, whether by joining, reforming, or creating a body that could apply for recognition?

The PRP also welcomes case studies and personal stories about experiences with press complaints processes or redress mechanisms, as well as any other relevant evidence. This can be submitted in writing or at a pre-arranged telephone, online, or in-person meeting. Respondents may request anonymity and confidentiality.

Write:-

Press Recognition Panel
Mappin House
4 Winsley Street
London
W1W 8HF
UK

Email:- Consultation@PressRecognitionPanel.Org.UK

The call for information will run fromL0 25 September to 19 December 2025.

For further background information, please visit:- The Press Recognition Panel (PRP) website.