Over the last 7 years I have learnt a thing or two about working with all forms of media.
Newspapers and magazines are looking for sensationalisation, true life stories are what they are of course interested in, it is what people buy the tabloids and mags for, to read about people and their stories.
They tend to be the sort of mags that you pick up in the hairdressers, for a quick flick through.
In my experience most journalists are not actually interested in you they are just trying to sell a story, the more anger, tears emotional turmoil the better it sells.
Often there are mistakes, artistic license and in some cases total untruths.
When you embark on the rocky road to of telling your story, be prepared for many phone calls, emails all going over the details only to be told at the very last minute that they have changed their minds.
Always start your conversation by saying, "You have checked this with your legal dept have you?" if they say no, then say,"Well when you have and got clearance then I will talk to you."
I have lost count of how many hours I have spent over 7 years, going over and over our story, it takes its toll, it is hard to keep on talking about such a difficult situation.
If you are approached either directly or indirectly, be prepared.
Also be prepared for the horrible comments that people write about you, I learnt very quickly never to scroll down to comments, people who had never met me, wrote serious personal insults, not only about me but my whole family.
Do your research into the particular journalist you are talking to, are they freelance? Do they work for a reputable paper or magazine?
Not all publicity is a good thing.
Be cautious.
Jane
www.bristolgrandparentssupportgroup.co.uk
Very true.
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