Seminar: 'The death knock' - the ethics of reporting grief and tragedy

Is it ethically acceptable to "death-knock" at a grieving family's door? If so, can it be done sensitively and in the interest of the bereaved, as well as the wider public?

These questions have been given new urgency by the ongoing Leveson Inquiry: it has heard powerful evidence from the Dowler, McCann and Watson families, who have all dealt with the pressures of press attention amid traumatic circumstances.

This Dart Center seminar will bring together journalists, filmmakers and researchers to discuss the future of the death knock post-Leveson. Dr Sallyanne Duncan, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow and Jackie Newton, Liverpool John Moores University, will introduce their research in this area, which examines bereaved families' varying responses to news media intrusion.

Their research has found that many encounters between journalists and the newsworthy bereaved are anticipated and positive, particularly in the regions.

This is the fourth in a series of practical discussions hosted by Dart Centre Europe, meeting informally over lunch, for journalists and filmmakers interested in fresh approaches to reporting on violence and trauma. The practice-based conversation will help to inform the Dart Centre's approach to supporting journalists and media workers who cover trauma and violence.

DETAILS

12:30pm-2:00pm

Dart Centre Europe
48 Gray's Inn Road
London WC1X 8LT
Entrance around the corner on Baldwin Gardens.
Nearest tube: Chancery Lane

Map

Lunch is provided.

Places are limited and so please RSVP via email to [email protected] to reserve a seat.

Please notify us of any dietary requirements.