1. Purpose of This Policy
This policy sets out how UKPoliticsDecoded cooperates with IMPRESS, our independent regulator. It explains our obligations under the IMPRESS Regulatory Scheme and the steps we take to ensure transparency, accountability, and full compliance with regulatory requirements.
This document is publicly available to demonstrate our commitment to responsible, ethical, and independently regulated journalism.
2. Commitment to Full Cooperation
UKPoliticsDecoded is committed to cooperating fully and promptly with IMPRESS in all matters relating to:
- complaints handling
- compliance assessments
- investigations
- information requests
- regulatory directions
- whistleblowing reports
- monitoring and audit processes
We recognise IMPRESS as the independent body responsible for overseeing our adherence to the IMPRESS Standards Code and the Regulatory Scheme.
3. Providing Information and Documentation
We will provide IMPRESS with all information and documentation reasonably required to carry out its regulatory functions, including:
- complaint logs
- corrections records
- compliance failure reports
- editorial decision notes
- relevant correspondence
- internal policies and updates
Information will be supplied promptly, accurately, and in good faith.
4. Compliance with Directions
UKPoliticsDecoded will comply with any direction issued by IMPRESS under the Regulatory Scheme, including directions relating to:
- complaint resolution
- publication of adjudications
- remedial actions
- corrections or clarifications
- changes to internal processes
Where a direction requires publication on our platform, it will be displayed clearly and without delay.
5. Reporting Compliance Failures
We will notify IMPRESS of any compliance failures that:
- involve a breach of the IMPRESS Standards Code
- reveal systemic or repeated issues
- materially affect public trust
- relate to serious editorial or governance concerns
Such reports will include details of the issue, its cause, and the steps taken to address it.
6. Handling Conflicts of Interest
Conflict of Interest Process
Where a complaint or compliance issue presents a conflict of interest:
- the Senior Responsible Person will not attempt to resolve the matter internally
- the issue will be referred directly to IMPRESS for independent assessment
This ensures impartiality and maintains public confidence in the regulatory process.
7. Whistleblowing and Contributor Protection
UKPoliticsDecoded supports the IMPRESS whistleblowing scheme. We will:
- publicise the IMPRESS whistleblowing hotline to contributors
- protect contributors from detriment for raising concerns
- cooperate fully with IMPRESS in any whistleblowing investigation
- ensure contributors have a contractual right to refuse unethical instructions
We will not take action against anyone who uses the hotline or declines to breach the Code.
More information is available on our Whistleblowing & IMPRESS Hotline page.
8. Transparency with Readers and the Public
Publication of IMPRESS Decisions
Where IMPRESS issues an adjudication, ruling, or direction requiring publication:
- we will publish it prominently
- we will not edit, shorten, or alter the text
- we will link to the full decision on the IMPRESS website
We are committed to maintaining public trust through openness and accountability.
9. Record Keeping
To support effective cooperation with IMPRESS, we maintain:
Complaint Log
Corrections Register
Compliance Log
Editorial Decision Notes
Contributor Declarations
(where applicable)
These records are retained for a minimum of six years.
10. Review and Updates
This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure continued alignment with:
- the IMPRESS Regulatory Scheme
- the IMPRESS Standards Code
- best practice in regulated journalism
Updates will be published on this page.