• Children and Youth
• Church Buildings
• Church Tourism
• Communications
  • Writing a Press Release
  • Sharing News
  • Dealing with a crisis
  • Website Training
• Disability Access
• Environment
• Finding a church
• Fresh Expressions
• Fundraising
• Money and giving
• Olympics
• Safeguarding
• Social Responsibility
• The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee

Writing a Press Release

A press release, sometimes called a news release, is the accepted way of getting a message out to print and broadcast media. There are some important steps to follow in writing a clear and effective press release.

1. First, give the date that you are sending out the release, and what organisation is sending out the release.
2. Give the release a headline, as though it were an article in the paper. The headline can be snappy to capture attention but needs to be relevant; don’t be afraid of just stating what’s happening.
3. Your press release must be factual, rather than based on opinion. The first paragraph should always include who, what, where,when, why and how. Stories that grab the attention of journalists usually have a human-interest angle. A story can be about a beginning; an end; a celebration; an achievement; a decision.
4. The rest of the press release can include more detail and ideally a quote in the third or fourth paragraph to inject some emotion into the release.
5. Try to keep the release short, with four to eight paragraphs and try not to go over one page. Keep the sentences short and to the point. An editor will cut from the bottom, so make sure you have put all the important information in the first paragraph.
6. After the press release type ‘Ends’ and then include a section called ‘Notes to editors’ where you can give background, draw attention to any images and give further contact details.
7. Don’t forget to write your contact details at the bottom of the release – and do make sure you’re available for journalists to contact after you’ve sent out the release.
8. It’s best to email, rather than fax or post, your press release. If you don’t have a list of contacts for your preferred media, or if you need some advice or help, contact Eleanor Course, the Diocesan Communications Officer on 01904 699530, 07946 748702 or comms@yorkdiocese.org.