We are now accepting entries for this year’s Statistical Excellence in Journalism Awards, sponsored by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).
The awards, now in their 17th year, celebrate writers and broadcasters who use statistics to question, analyse and investigate the issues that affect society. Previous winners include journalists and reporters from the BBC, Financial Times and Mail on Sunday, among other publications.
There are four categories – investigative journalism, data visualisation, ‘explaining the facts’ and ‘best statistical commentary by a non-journalist’, which recognises the contribution of the data science and statistical communities to the media discourse.
Professor Christl Donnelly, RSS Vice President for External Affairs and chair of the judging panel, said: ‘The awards give us an excellent opportunity to celebrate all the good work being done with statistics and data in the media across a wide range of outlets and publications. We’ve seen some outstanding work so far and I’m sure we’ll see the same again this year.’
Catherine Bromley, ESRC Deputy Director of Data Strategy and Infrastructure, said: ‘ESRC is delighted to support these awards. I am particularly pleased to see the awards expanded to include a category for best commentary by a non-journalist, as this is a good way to also recognise statistical commentary on social issues by academics or other data users. The professional use of robust evidence and data whilst reporting on important issues is absolutely vital. I look forward to judging the entries and congratulating the winners.’
The deadine for entries is Monday 20 March.
Read more about the criteria and download the entry form.