Bristol Express News (BEN) is a journalism passion project and a community-driven, independent news publication dedicated to delivering reliable, hyperlocal, and people-centred journalism across Bristol. We cover local politics, social issues, housing, transport, business, environment, culture, arts, and neighbourhood life, ensuring that the voices of Bristol’s diverse communities are heard and represented.
Our reporting focuses on stories that matter to residents, told with accuracy, balance, and a strong connection to the city.
Our Core Principles
At Bristol Express News (BEN), we believe strong local journalism is essential for informed communities and a healthy democracy. Our editorial approach is guided by the following principles.
Strong Ethical Journalism
We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity. In an era of misinformation, Bristol Express News prioritises fact-based reporting, balanced perspectives, and responsible storytelling.
Every article is carefully researched, thoroughly verified, and presented transparently. Our journalists follow a strict ethical code to ensure independence, fairness, and accountability. Our aim is to be a trusted source of news for Bristol residents.
Promoting Street Journalism
News should be created with the community, not just about it.
Mainstream media often overlooks everyday stories that shape local life. Bristol Express News empowers citizen journalists, community contributors, and local storytellers to report on issues and events happening in their neighbourhoods.
By encouraging street journalism, we amplify local voices, highlight overlooked concerns, and ensure lived experiences help shape the local news agenda.
Building an Informed Community
An informed city is a stronger city.
Our mission is to educate, engage, and empower people across Bristol through accessible and relevant journalism. We provide daily updates on civic affairs, transport, housing, business, environmental issues, and local governance.
We also publish in-depth investigations into issues that matter to residents, opinion pieces that encourage meaningful discussion, and practical guides to help people understand public services, rights, and opportunities.
By keeping communities informed, we help residents make confident decisions for themselves and their city.
Strengthening Local Democracy
A healthy democracy depends on public awareness and participation.
Bristol Express News closely follows local government activity, policy decisions, council meetings, and elections, holding leaders and institutions accountable.
We encourage civic engagement by explaining complex political topics in clear language, offering a platform for community leaders, activists, and residents, and highlighting initiatives that drive positive change across Bristol.
Our journalism bridges the gap between decision-makers and the public, empowering people to take an active role in shaping the city’s future.
News by the People, for the People
At Bristol Express News, journalism is powered by professional reporters alongside volunteer Street Reporters who live in the communities they cover.
These local contributors bring attention to everyday issues such as housing challenges, transport disruptions, neighbourhood developments, environmental concerns, cultural events, and grassroots campaigns. Their firsthand knowledge adds authenticity and depth to our reporting.
All Street Reporters receive structured training in journalism fundamentals, ethical reporting, and verification standards to ensure every contribution meets Bristol Express News’s editorial values.
We encourage residents to share stories, photos, and news tips, because those who live in a community understand its challenges and successes best.
📖 Want to learn more about our Street Journalism Training Program? Visit our Street Journalism Training Programme page to understand how we train and empower local voices to become trusted news contributors.
We believe that those who live in a community understand its challenges and successes best. That’s why we encourage local residents to contribute their perspectives, photos, and news tips.
💡 Interested in covering local news in Bristol Express News (BEN)? Visit our ‘Become Street Reporter‘ page to get started!
Our Coverage
We cover news from across Bristol, including its neighbourhoods, wards, and surrounding areas.
Wherever you live in the city, Bristol Express News is your local source for news that affects your daily life.
Why Bristol Express News?
Bristol Express News delivers independent, ethical, and community-first journalism beyond mainstream headlines. We provide a platform for citizen journalists, support emerging writers, and remain committed to transparency, accuracy, and public-service reporting.
Bristol Express News — reporting Bristol through the voices of its people.