News Reporter - Swindon

Application Deadline: 17 August 2026

Department: Editorial

Location: Swindon

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious News Reporter to join our high-performing newsroom, covering one of the most dynamic patches in the region.

This is a fast-paced role where no two days are the same. You’ll be at the forefront of breaking news, court reporting, community stories and in-depth features, producing content that informs, engages and resonates with local audiences across Swindon and Wiltshire.

Working as part of a supportive and driven team, you will help deliver digital-first journalism across our websites and social platforms, playing a key role in ensuring we tell the stories that matter most to our communities.

This role is open to senior journalists looking for a fresh and bigger challenge as well as trainee reporters entering the industry for the first time.

Key Responsibilities

• Report on breaking news, crime, courts, local politics and community issues
• Identify and develop exclusive stories, features and human-interest content
• Produce accurate, engaging and balanced journalism to tight deadlines
• Ensure all content is written and presented in a digital-first way, optimised for online audiences
• Build strong contacts across the patch, including emergency services, councils and community groups
• Use social media to source stories, engage readers and promote content
• Work closely with editors and colleagues to deliver impactful coverage
• Contribute ideas to content planning and help shape daily news agendas

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Passionate about journalism and committed to high editorial standards
• Digitally skilled, with a strong understanding of how audiences consume news online
• A confident writer with the ability to produce clear, engaging copy
• Highly organised, able to work quickly and accurately under pressure
• Proactive, curious and full of ideas for stories and content
• Comfortable using social media as a reporting and publishing tool
• A strong communicator, able to build and maintain professional relationships
• A journalism qualification (NCTJ or equivalent) or relevant experience
• Knowledge of media law, IPSO regulations and ethical reporting standards
• Experience working in a newsroom or similar environment (desirable but not essential)
• A Driver's Licence and your own car

Job Benefits

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
• Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
• Structured career progression & ongoing training
• Pension plan
• Employee Helpline counselling and advice
• Perks & discounts including:
  • Gym membership
  • Cycle to Work scheme
  • Eye care
  • Retail discounts
• Team building days & annual volunteer charity day