Editorial policy

Ground Level is an independent editorial publication. These are the standards we hold ourselves to.

Independence

No funder, subscriber, advertiser, source, or third party has editorial influence over what we publish. We carry no advertising. We accept no sponsorship. We are not affiliated with any developer, housebuilder, housing association, council, trade body, charity, think tank, or political party. Editorial decisions are made by the editorial team alone.

Accuracy

Every factual claim we publish is sourced. Where we cite statistics, we name the dataset, the publishing body, and the date. Where we reference legislation, we cite the Act, section, and regulation. Where data is contested between sources, we say so and present both figures.

We do not present opinion as fact. Where we offer analysis or interpretation, the language makes that clear. Readers should always be able to distinguish between what the data shows and what we think it means.

Corrections

We correct errors promptly and transparently. If we get a fact wrong, we fix it and note the correction at the foot of the article with the date it was made. We do not silently alter published text.

If you believe we have published something inaccurate, write to [email protected] with the specific claim and the evidence that contradicts it. We will investigate and respond.

Sources and confidentiality

We protect the identity of confidential sources absolutely. We will not reveal a source's identity to any third party, including in response to legal threats, unless the source gives explicit written consent. This commitment is unconditional.

We verify information from confidential sources against documentary evidence or independent corroboration before publishing. We do not publish unverified claims from anonymous sources as fact.

Right of reply

Where we report critically on a named organisation, council, or individual, we offer the subject an opportunity to respond before publication where it is practicable and would not compromise the reporting. Responses are included or summarised fairly.

Updates to this policy

This policy may be updated as the publication develops. The current version is always available at this URL. If you have questions about our editorial standards, write to [email protected].