How does Southampton Wire cover the region?
Southampton Wire focuses on clear, practical local news for Southampton, Hampshire and the wider South Coast, guided by our editorial mission: trustworthy journalism without spin. Every story must help readers understand what matters locally.
Our reporting covers councils, business, community affairs, crime, transport and culture. We operate as an independent digital publisher owned by Sliema Media Limited (Malta C 84217) and our UK editorial line is +44 20 4587 9485. All content is drafted by a named writer, reviewed by an editor and fact‑checked before publication. AI‑assisted tools may support research or formatting but never replace human editorial judgement – we never fabricate quotes, sources, interviews or bylines. For more detail on our wider editorial standards, see our Editorial Policy.
What you can expect from us
Readers can expect named bylines, editor review, fact‑checking before publication, and clear labelling of sponsored or affiliate content. We never fabricate quotes or sources, and every story is owned by a human editor.
Our team includes Editor‑in‑Chief William Ashby (william.ashby@southamptonwire.co.uk), Managing Editor Sarah Mills, and Standards & Fact‑checking Lead Diane Forbes. Commercial relationships – display advertising, affiliate links, sponsored content, newsletter sponsorships – are always clearly labelled and never determine editorial conclusions. Sponsored material is marked as such. For details on how we use AI and automation, please read our AI & Automation Policy.
How do we select and verify local sources?
We prioritise primary sources: council documents, official statements, public records, and direct interviews with named individuals. Anonymous tips are used only when the information meets strict public‑interest criteria and the source is known to the editor.
Our fact‑checking process is led by Diane Forbes (diane.forbes@southamptonwire.co.uk). Every claim is cross‑referenced against authoritative records – such as planning applications, court listings, or company filings. When we rely on third‑party reports, we identify them. We maintain a dedicated Sources & Attribution Policy that sets out our standards for using anonymous sources, off‑the‑record conversations, and documents obtained through freedom of information requests. Full details are in our Fact‑checking Policy.
How do we report on councils and public bodies?
Our coverage of Southampton City Council, Hampshire County Council, and other local authorities is based on public meetings, agendas, minutes, and direct communication with councillors and officers. Where possible we attend meetings in person or via public livestream.
Local Politics & Council Editor Kieran Doherty (kieran.doherty@southamptonwire.co.uk) oversees this beat. We clearly attribute all information – whether it comes from a public statement, a committee report, or a named official. If we cannot independently verify a council claim, we say so. We also encourage readers to submit tips about local governance via our Tip Us page. Anonymous tips are handled according to the criteria in our Sources Policy.
When do we use anonymous sources?
We grant anonymity only when the information is of clear public interest, cannot be obtained otherwise, and the source’s identity is known to the editor. The reason for anonymity is explained in the story itself.
Any decision to publish an anonymous source must be approved by the Editor‑in‑Chief or Managing Editor. We never allow anonymous sources to make unsubstantiated attacks or allegations. The Editorial Policy contains full guidance on our anonymity protocols. For sensitive tips, you can reach our newsdesk at tips@southamptonwire.co.uk.
How do we handle corrections for local stories?
Corrections are handled promptly and transparently. Readers can report errors via corrections@southamptonwire.co.uk. Each correction is logged, reviewed by the Editor‑in‑Chief, and published with a clear note explaining the change.
We take accountability seriously. Corrected articles carry a visible update line at the top or bottom. If a factual error is significant, we may publish a standalone correction notice. Our Corrections Policy sets out the process in full, including timeframes for responding to correction requests. For unresolved issues, readers may use our Complaints Procedure.
Questions or concerns?
If you have feedback or concerns about our regional reporting, contact the editorial team. We are committed to accountability and welcome dialogue with our readers.
Email the Editor‑in‑Chief at william.ashby@southamptonwire.co.uk or call +44 20 4587 9486. You can also reach our general mailbox at info@southamptonwire.co.uk. For formal complaints, please see our Complaints Procedure. We try to acknowledge all messages within two working days.