The Power of Diverse Perspectives

At MyLocal, we're committed to fostering a vibrant community dialogue by opening our platforms to voices beyond our newsroom. We value the insights and opinions of those with unique experiences or expertise—be it in politics, science, technology, the arts, history, or the public sector. Our Voices columns are spaces where the community can engage directly with a diverse range of ideas and perspectives that may challenge, inspire, and provoke thought.

Responsibility and Integrity

As a contributor, you're responsible for the accuracy and integrity of your submission. Our editorial teams will assist with fact-checking and editing to ensure your piece aligns with our high standards and editorial guidelines, but the final content will always be a collaborative agreement between you and our editors.

Types of Contributions

We welcome a variety of column forms:

• Expert Insights: Share your deep expertise to illuminate issues, propose solutions, or offer counterarguments.

• First-Person Narratives: Personal experiences that offer a unique viewpoint and resonate with our readers.

• Public Discourse: A platform for public officials to articulate their views or policies with insightful, newsworthy perspectives.

Originality and Exclusivity

Submissions will ideally be original, exclusive to MyLocal, and not previously published in any form. We aim to provide our readers with fresh, engaging content that can't be found anywhere else.

Ethical Standards

We expect all guest writers to adhere to the highest ethical standards, avoiding any conflicts of interest and ensuring full transparency with our audience.

Submission Guidelines

• Word Count: Ideally between 700-900 words, not shorter than 500, and not exceeding 1,000 words.

• Audience: Aimed at a knowledgeable non-specialist local audience, with hyperlinks to supporting data or research.

• Visuals: Include images or graphs (600 pixels wide minimum, JPEG/PNG format) and datasets if relevant.

Submission Expectations

Your post should be submission-ready, with clear headlines and a multimedia approach where possible. Hyperlinks are crucial for backing up claims and enhancing credibility.

Review and Response

We receive a high volume of submissions and can't respond to all. If you don't hear from us within five days, feel free to submit your work elsewhere.

Writing for Impact

We seek contributions that:

• Engage and challenge diverse audiences.

• Offer specific insight into complex issues.

• Start conversations and influence change.

• Delight with exceptional writing and original perspectives.

What We Avoid

We do not publish content that is too niche, overly personal, or that promotes products. Our focus is on impactful, authoritative voices that speak to the interests and concerns of our readers.

Becoming a MyLocal Voice

There's no set frequency for contributions—write when you have something compelling to share. Consider the relevance and timeliness of your topic, and ensure your writing is accessible, engaging, and targeted to a UK audience.

Editorial Process

We respect your voice and argument. Changes made are typically for clarity, SEO, or legal compliance. Titles may be altered for impact and reach, with your consent.

Your Role in Our Community

As a MyLocal Voice, you're joining a mission to inform, engage, and enrich our local community. Your insights and expertise are invaluable in shaping a well-informed public discourse.

To submit your column for consideration, please send your draft to voices@mylocal.co.uk. We look forward to hearing your voice!

Amplify Your Voice

Once your column is published, we encourage you to amplify its reach. Share your MyLocal Voices piece on your personal and professional social media platforms. Engaging with your audience through these channels can extend the conversation and increase the impact of your work.

Interactive Dialogue

We also invite you to actively participate in the discussions your column may generate on the MyLocal platform. Responding to comments and interacting with readers can deepen the dialogue and foster a stronger community connection.

Visual Authenticity and Permissions

Original Imagery or Video

To enhance your column, we welcome original images or videos that you have personally captured, for which you will retain copyright, but give us permission to use. High-quality, relevant visuals can significantly increase reader engagement with your piece. If your topic is more abstract, please discuss with us potential visual approaches.

Copyrighted Images

If you wish to use copyrighted images, it is your responsibility to secure the necessary permissions or licenses. Ensure that you have the right to share any copyrighted material you submit.

Creative Commons

For images obtained under Creative Commons licenses, please include the appropriate attribution and confirm that the license permits use in our publication. Specify the type of Creative Commons license and ensure compliance with its conditions.

Legal Considerations and Content Integrity

Respectful Discourse

We believe in robust debate and diverse opinions but draw the line at personal attacks. Civility is paramount. Content that descends into personal attacks or could be perceived as defamatory will not be published.

Adherence to UK Media Law

MyLocal operates under strict adherence to UK media law. Submissions must respect the legal boundaries concerning defamation and libel. Any claims that could be potentially legally problematic must be substantiated with clear evidence.

Accountability and Evidence

To maintain the integrity of our platform, we require that all contentious claims are supported by verifiable evidence. Hyperlinks to credible sources or sharing documents that back up such claims are mandatory for publication.

Editorial Discretion

MyLocal retains the editorial right to modify, withhold, or remove content, in part or in full, at any time, to ensure compliance with legal standards and our platform's policies.

By submitting your column to MyLocal Voices, you accept these terms and agree to cooperate fully with our editorial team to ensure that your content meets these legal and ethical standards. We're committed to fostering a space for free expression, provided it aligns with these principles and the responsible practice of journalism.