Wiltshire Police has appointed its new Journalist Safety Liaison Officer (JSLO).
Chief Superintendent Doug Downing will take on the role – which was brought in by the UK Government to improve protections for news professionals.
The National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists ensures every police force in the UK now has a dedicated officer to support journalists facing abuse and threats.
The officers act as a single point of contact for journalists and news organisations, offering advice and ensuring any crimes reported are properly logged and investigated.
The plan was first tabled by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in 2021, and was delivered by Labour.
Chief Superintendent Downing will carry out the role in addition to his responsibilities for the Specialist Operations, Contact Management, Neighbourhood Policing, Response and Neighbourhood Harm Reduction teams.
“Too often, journalists are put in harm’s way while fulfilling their vital role of delivering accurate news to the public”, media minister Ian Murray said.
Adding: “It is only right that they feel supported and protected so they can focus on carrying out their jobs to the highest standard.
“By appointing Journalist Safety Liaison Officers in every police force, I hope reporters will feel reassured knowing they have a direct point of contact if issues arise.”
Safeguarding minister Jess Phillips said that she knowns how it feels to be on the receiving end of threats and intimidation.
She said: “I also know my experience is not unique – too many people who put themselves in the public eye to do their jobs face the same.
“My broader work on safeguarding has shown me how important it is to protect those who speak out, and that must include journalists.
“Their work underpins our democracy and they must be able to do it free from fear.”
The scheme is backed by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), which worked alongside the government to ensure JSLOs are in place across all 43 forces in England and Wales, as well as in Scotland, Northern Ireland, British Transport Police and Counter Terrorism Policing.
Deputy Chief Constable Sam de Reya, NPCC lead for media and communications, said: “Policing takes the safety of journalists extremely seriously, and this initiative demonstrates our commitment to protecting those who play a vital role in our democracy.
“The National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists has brought together partners across policing, government, and the media to tackle the threats journalists face.
“Policing is proud to support this work, and we will continue to play our part in ensuring that journalists are protected and empowered to do their jobs without fear or intimidation.”
