Effective Date: 20 June 2026
Our Editorial Mission
Sheffield Time is an independent digital news publication committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy and timely journalism for Sheffield, South Yorkshire and the wider United Kingdom.
Our mission is to provide readers with reliable information that helps them understand the events, issues and stories affecting their communities.
We are committed to producing journalism that prioritises facts, transparency, accountability and public interest.
Our Editorial Principles
Everything we publish is guided by five core principles.
Accuracy
Accuracy is at the centre of our reporting process.
We verify information before publication using credible and reliable sources wherever possible.
Our journalists aim to present information clearly and accurately while avoiding speculation and misinformation.
Independence
Our editorial decisions remain independent from advertisers, sponsors, political organisations and commercial interests.
No advertiser or commercial partner can influence our editorial coverage.
Fairness
We strive to present balanced reporting by including relevant viewpoints and allowing individuals or organisations an opportunity to respond where appropriate.
Transparency
We clearly distinguish between news reporting, opinion content, sponsored content and advertising.
Where necessary, corrections and updates will be openly disclosed.
Accountability
We take responsibility for our journalism and welcome feedback from our readers.
If mistakes occur, we will correct them promptly.
Editorial Standards
Before publishing content, our editorial team aims to verify information through credible sources, including:
- Official government announcements
- Sheffield City Council statements
- South Yorkshire Police updates
- NHS announcements
- Emergency service statements
- Public records
- Official organisations
- Court documents where legally reportable
- First hand interviews
- Direct eyewitness accounts where independently verified
We avoid publishing unverified rumours as established facts.
Breaking News Policy
Breaking news develops rapidly and information can change quickly.
When publishing breaking stories, we may update articles as new information becomes available.
Articles may be revised to reflect:
- New official statements
- Confirmed developments
- Additional context
- Corrections
Updated articles may include timestamps to improve transparency.
Sources and Attribution
We prioritise original reporting and authoritative sources.
Whenever appropriate, we attribute information to its original source.
Anonymous sources may be used only when:
- The information is in the public interest.
- The source faces legitimate risks if identified.
- Information can be independently verified.
We reserve the right not to disclose confidential sources.
Corrections Policy
Despite our efforts, errors may occasionally occur.
If factual inaccuracies are identified, we will:
- Investigate the issue.
- Correct verified errors promptly.
- Update articles where necessary.
- Add correction notices for significant changes.
Readers can report errors by contacting:
Please include:
- Article URL
- Description of the issue
- Supporting evidence if available
Opinion Content
Opinion articles represent the views of their individual authors.
Opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the views of Sheffield Time.
Opinion content will be clearly labelled.
Sponsored Content and Advertising
Sheffield Time may publish sponsored content, advertisements and affiliate partnerships.
Sponsored material will be clearly identified.
Commercial relationships do not influence editorial decisions.
Our editorial integrity remains independent at all times.
Artificial Intelligence Policy
Sheffield Time may use artificial intelligence tools to assist with:
- Research support
- Content formatting
- Headline testing
- Search optimisation
- Administrative tasks
AI tools are never used as a substitute for editorial judgement.
All published content is reviewed and approved by a human editor before publication.
User Generated Content
Readers may submit:
- News tips
- Community stories
- Event information
- Photographs
Submission of material does not guarantee publication.
We reserve the right to edit, refuse or remove submissions at our discretion.
Ethical Reporting
We aim to report responsibly, particularly when covering:
- Children and vulnerable individuals
- Crime and legal proceedings
- Public safety incidents
- Deaths and sensitive subjects
We respect privacy while balancing the public’s right to know.
Editorial Independence Statement
Sheffield Time is committed to independent journalism.
Our editorial decisions are made without improper influence from advertisers, sponsors, political groups or external organisations.
We remain accountable to our readers and committed to serving the public interest.
Contact Us
Editorial enquiries, corrections and feedback can be sent to:
Editor: editor@sheffieldtime.co.uk
General Enquiries: news@sheffieldtime.co.uk
Website: https://sheffieldtime.co.uk
Last Updated: 20 June 2026