Complaints and Corrections

Last updated: 12 June 2026

1. Our commitment

Bower News is committed to producing accurate, fair and responsible journalism.

As a teaching newsroom, we aim to work to professional editorial standards. However, we recognise that errors can occur, and we take all complaints seriously.

We are committed to:

  • correcting inaccuracies promptly;
  • being transparent about significant errors;
  • handling complaints fairly and respectfully.

2. Requests for corrections

If you believe that content published on Bower News is inaccurate or misleading, you may request a correction.

Please include:

  • the URL or title of the article;
  • the specific information you believe is incorrect;
  • (where possible) evidence or supporting information.

3. How we handle corrections

All correction requests will be reviewed by the programme staff team.

Minor inaccuracies

  • Small errors (e.g. spelling, minor factual slips) may be corrected without a formal notice.

Significant errors

  • We will correct the content as soon as possible;
  • We will add a clear correction note explaining what has changed.

Serious issues

In certain circumstances, we may:

  • amend the article substantially;
  • temporarily remove the content; or
  • permanently unpublish the article.

4. Complaints about content

You may submit a complaint if you believe an article:

  • is inaccurate or misleading;
  • is unfair or lacks proper balance;
  • breaches privacy or ethical standards;
  • infringes copyright;
  • or may pose legal concerns (e.g. defamation).

5. How to make a complaint

Please send complaints to:

Email: christopher12.brown@uwe.ac.uk
Subject line: Bower News complaint

To help us respond effectively, please include:

  • a link to the content;
  • a clear explanation of your concern;
  • any supporting evidence.

6. What happens next

When we receive a complaint, we will:

  1. Acknowledge receipt as soon as reasonably possible
  2. Review the content against our Editorial Policy
  3. Consult relevant contributors and staff where appropriate
  4. Decide on appropriate action

This may include:

  • no change (with explanation);
  • a correction;
  • an update or clarification;
  • removal of content.

7. Timescales

We aim to:

  • acknowledge complaints within 2 working days;
  • provide a substantive response within 7–10 working days.

Some cases may take longer if they require detailed review or involve multiple parties.

8. Student content and learning context

Bower News publishes work created by students as part of a journalism training programme.

While content is subject to editorial oversight, it reflects a learning environment, and contributors are developing professional practice.

Where appropriate, complaints may also be used as part of the educational process to improve future reporting.

9. Takedown requests

We will consider requests to remove content where there are valid legal, ethical or safety concerns.

Merely objecting to coverage is not, on its own, a sufficient reason for removal.

Each request will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

10. Right of reply

Where appropriate, we may offer individuals or organisations the opportunity to respond to coverage.

Responses may be:

  • added as an update to an article;
  • included in follow-up reporting; or
  • published separately where appropriate.

11. Further escalation

If you are not satisfied with our response, you may wish to pursue the matter through:

  • the University’s formal complaints procedures;
  • or other relevant regulatory or legal routes.

12. Updates to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time to reflect changes in practice or legal requirements.

Any updates will be published on this page.