Ethics Policy

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

1. Purpose

This Ethics Policy outlines the ethical principles and professional conduct expected of all staff, editors, journalists, contributors, freelancers, and partners working for or on behalf of SurgeZirc UK. It underpins our commitment to trustworthy, responsible, and independent journalism and supports public confidence in our work.

2. Core Ethical Values

SurgeZirc UK is guided by the following core values:

  • Integrity: We act honestly and uphold the highest standards of professional conduct.
  • Accuracy: We seek truth and report it responsibly.
  • Independence: We maintain editorial independence from political, commercial, and personal interests.
  • Fairness: We treat individuals and communities with respect and impartiality.
  • Accountability: We are answerable to our readers and correct mistakes transparently.

3. Editorial Independence

  • Editorial decisions must not be influenced by advertisers, sponsors, political actors, or external pressure.
  • Commercial relationships within the SurgeZirc Media network must not compromise editorial judgement.
  • Editors have final authority over editorial content.

4. Conflicts of Interest

  • Staff and contributors must disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest, including financial, personal, or professional relationships relevant to their work.
  • Individuals must not report on, edit, or influence coverage where a conflict exists.
  • Gifts, hospitality, or incentives that could compromise independence must not be accepted.

5. Accuracy, Honesty, and Misrepresentation

  • We do not knowingly publish false, misleading, or distorted information.
  • Sources, images, and quotes must not be fabricated or altered to mislead.
  • Plagiarism is strictly prohibited.

6. Fair Treatment and Respect

  • We respect the dignity, privacy, and rights of individuals.
  • Care is taken when reporting on children, victims of crime, and vulnerable groups.
  • Harassment, discrimination, or hateful conduct is not tolerated in our journalism or workplace.

7. Use of Sources and Confidentiality

  • Sources must be treated ethically and transparently.
  • Confidential sources are protected unless disclosure is legally required.
  • Anonymous sources are used only where there is a clear public interest.

8. Data Protection and Privacy

  • Personal data is handled in accordance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
  • Information obtained through newsgathering is used responsibly and lawfully.
  • Deceptive data‑gathering practices are avoided unless clearly justified by public interest and approved by senior editors.

9. Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies

  • AI tools may support research, transcription, and drafting but must not replace editorial responsibility.
  • All AI‑assisted content is reviewed by a human editor.
  • AI must not be used to fabricate facts, sources, images, or quotes.

10. Sponsored Content and Advertising Ethics

  • Sponsored or branded content must be clearly identified and distinguishable from editorial content.
  • SurgeZirc UK does not allow advertisers to influence editorial outcomes.

11. Corrections and Accountability

  • Ethical concerns or errors must be raised promptly with editors.
  • Errors are corrected transparently and without undue delay.
  • Ethical breaches may result in disciplinary action.

12. Whistleblowing and Ethical Concerns

  • Staff and contributors are encouraged to report ethical concerns without fear of retaliation.
  • Reports will be handled confidentially and investigated fairly.

13. Global Network Alignment

As part of the SurgeZirc Media global network, SurgeZirc UK:

  • Adheres to shared ethical principles across the network
  • Applies UK‑specific legal and regulatory standards
  • Ensures cross‑border content meets local ethical expectations

14. Policy Review

This Ethics Policy is reviewed regularly and updated to reflect changes in law, technology, and industry best practice.

SurgeZirc UK is committed to ethical journalism that serves the public interest and upholds trust.