Our Purpose:
To safeguard the vital flow of information which enables us to make decisions, building informed and engaged societies.
Our Mission:
We empower freelance journalists with the knowledge, resources and resilience they need to gather the facts and establish the truth, safely and without fear.
Privacy Notice:
We collect and process your personal data to assess applications and meet legal obligations. Your information is stored securely, never sold, and only shared when necessary. You have the right to access, correct or delete your data. Contact privacy@rorypecktrust.org or visit www.rorypecktrust.org/privacy.
A One-Day Practical Workshop for Freelance Journalists
Date: October 1, 2026 (Full Day)
Location: Belfast Metropolitan College (Belfast Met)
This practical training equips freelance journalists to manage real-world risks when reporting locally. Designed specifically for independent reporters working without newsroom backstops, the workshop covers:
- Field Safety: Risk assessment, protest positioning, riot exit strategies, and doorstep encounters.
- Digital Security: Digital footprint lockdown, doxxing prevention, and managing online harassment.
- Expert Input: Legal rights, threat escalation pathways, and safety guidance from the PSNI.
Please Note: Spaces are limited. Detailed venue instructions and timings will be provided to successful applicants prior to the event. Complete the form below to apply.
Application deadline: September 28th
Important: Due to a high volume of applications, processing times are currently extended up to 6 weeks. Please be patient during this period. In the meantime, we encourage you to look for alternative funding opportunities - many organisations that support journalists regularly share upcoming funded opportunities (including for freelancers) on their social media channels.
Please ensure you have selected your training provider and course dates before applying, where possible. As our funds are limited, you will have a maximum of three months from receiving the grant to undertake your training.