Editorial Standards & Fact‑Checking Policy

Publisher: SurgeZirc UK
Network: SurgeZirc Media (Global Network)
Jurisdiction: United Kingdom
Effective Date: January 2026

1. Purpose and Scope

This policy sets out the editorial principles, standards, and fact‑checking processes that govern all content published by SurgeZirc UK, including articles, opinion pieces, explainers, interviews, multimedia, newsletters, and social posts produced under our brand. It applies to all editors, journalists, contributors, freelancers, and partners working for or on behalf of SurgeZirc UK.

SurgeZirc UK is committed to accurate, fair, independent, and responsible journalism in line with UK law and recognised industry standards.

2. Core Editorial Principles

2.1 Accuracy

  • Accuracy is paramount. All factual claims must be verified before publication.
  • Headlines, images, captions, and summaries must accurately reflect the content.
  • We do not publish information we know to be false or misleading.

2.2 Fairness and Balance

  • We present issues fairly and in context.
  • Relevant viewpoints must be represented, particularly on contentious matters.
  • Individuals and organisations should be given a fair opportunity to respond to significant allegations.

2.3 Independence

  • Editorial decisions are made independently of political, commercial, or personal interests.
  • Advertising, sponsorship, or partnerships do not influence editorial content.

2.4 Accountability and Transparency

  • We correct errors promptly and transparently.
  • Sources, limitations, and uncertainty are clearly explained to readers.

3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

SurgeZirc UK operates in accordance with:

  • UK defamation, contempt of court, privacy, and copyright laws
  • Data protection laws (UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018)
  • The Editors’ Code of Practice (IPSO)
  • Relevant Ofcom Broadcasting Code principles where applicable to video or audio content

Content must not:

  • Defame individuals or organisations
  • Invade privacy without a clear and demonstrable public interest
  • Incite hatred, discrimination, or violence

4. Sourcing Standards

4.1 Use of Sources

  • We rely on primary sources wherever possible (official documents, direct statements, original data).
  • Anonymous sources are used only when there is a clear public interest and the information cannot reasonably be obtained otherwise.
  • Editors must know the identity of anonymous sources and assess credibility.

4.2 Attribution

  • All facts, quotes, and data that are not common knowledge must be attributed.
  • Links to original sources should be provided where appropriate.

4.3 Social Media and User‑Generated Content

  • Information from social platforms must be independently verified before publication.
  • Images or videos must be authenticated and used with appropriate context.

5. Fact‑Checking Policy

5.1 Pre‑Publication Verification

Before publication, content must undergo proportionate fact‑checking, including:

  • Verification of names, dates, locations, statistics, and quotations
  • Cross‑checking claims against at least two reliable sources where possible
  • Confirmation that images and videos accurately represent events described

5.2 Levels of Review

  • Breaking news: Rapid verification using trusted primary sources; updates clearly labelled as new information emerges.
  • In‑depth or investigative pieces: Full fact‑checking, document review, and editorial sign‑off required.

5.3 Corrections of Uncertainty

Where facts are disputed or evolving, this must be clearly stated within the article.

6. Corrections, Clarifications, and Updates

  • Errors are corrected promptly once identified.
  • Significant corrections are clearly labelled and appended to the article.
  • Clarifications or updates are timestamped.
  • We do not silently edit substantive errors.

Readers may report errors via our published contact channels.

7. Opinion, Analysis, and Sponsored Content

7.1 Opinion and Commentary

  • Opinion content is clearly labelled.
  • Opinions must be based on accurate facts.
  • Opinion writers are subject to the same fact‑checking standards for factual claims.

7.2 Sponsored and Branded Content

  • Sponsored content is clearly identified.
  • It is produced separately from independent editorial content.

8. Use of Artificial Intelligence

  • AI tools may assist with research, transcription, or drafting, but do not replace editorial judgement.
  • All AI‑assisted content is reviewed and verified by a human editor before publication.
  • AI may not be used to fabricate quotes, sources, or events.

9. Conflicts of Interest

  • Staff and contributors must disclose any personal, financial, or professional conflicts of interest.
  • Where relevant, disclosures will be made to readers.
  • Editors may reassign stories to avoid perceived conflicts.

10. Diversity, Harm, and Sensitivity

  • We strive for inclusive and respectful coverage.
  • Care is taken when reporting on crime, trauma, children, or vulnerable individuals.
  • Graphic or distressing material is avoided unless there is a strong public interest and appropriate warnings are provided.

11. Global Network Standards

As part of the SurgeZirc Media global network:

  • SurgeZirc UK adheres to shared core editorial values while maintaining compliance with UK‑specific laws and standards.
  • Cross‑border content is reviewed to ensure accuracy, cultural context, and legal suitability for a UK audience.

12. Review and Updates

This policy is reviewed regularly and updated as legal requirements, industry standards, or editorial practices evolve.

SurgeZirc UK is committed to maintaining public trust through rigorous editorial standards and responsible journalism.