This video explains the usefulness of peer support networks for helping ease the emotional impact of online attacks and harassment on journalists. It outlines the qualities and structures these networks should have in order to fulfil their aim, and underscores the importance of a trauma-informed culture in the newsroom.
This video covers the following topics:
- What is a peer-support scheme?
- Journalists are often reluctant to talk to outside professionals
- Creating a human bridge
- Reconnecting targeted journalists back into the community
- What role can a peer-support network play in the newsroom?
- What can a peer supporter do for targeted colleagues?
- Normalize distress reactions
- Helpful conduit to resources about mental health
- Facilitate craft mentoring
- Identify warning signs
- How to implement a peer-support programme?
- Run by journalists for journalists
- Consult outside experts including trauma-focused specialist
- Train peer supporters in basic trauma awareness
- Creating a trauma-informed culture in the newsroom
- Create a conducive safety culture within the newsroom
- Promoting knowledge about traumatic stress reactions
- Training in trauma reporting skills
- Understanding trauma in journalism
This series of video tutorials has been developed in cooperation with the Dart Centre Europe.