NUJ and Google launch training tool for journalists

The National Union of Journalists has teamed up with the Google News Initiative to launch Storysmart, a free online interactive training tool for reporters who face hostile environments, social media attacks and cyber threats.

According to Michelle Stanistreet, the NUJ’s general secretary,

“Storysmart is designed to raise journalists’ awareness of the challenges they face and provide tested methods to minimise risk and protect sources, however and wherever they are carrying out their work.”

“Journalism has always been dangerous, but hostile environments now extend to the streets of our own cities and cyber attacks can be mounted on the devices in all of our pockets.”

The Storysmart initiative consists of a series of interactive modules that examine hostile environments, psychological trauma and well-being, cyber risks and dealing with injury. Each module takes between 10-20 minutes to complete.

Matt Cooke, head of Google News Lab said:

“The Google News Initiative works side-by-side with associations, publishers and journalists to build a more sustainable, diverse and innovative news ecosystem. This new training destination, designed by the NUJ, aims to raise awareness of practical steps and digital safety techniques.  It has never been more important to protect and support journalists, and we’re grateful to the NUJ and all of the expert practitioners from across the news industry who have contributed to this project.”