Impress can confirm that it has launched an investigation into member publication 5Pillars regarding a potential breach of the Impress Standards Code. The investigation is related to Episode 122 of Blood Brothers, a podcast produced by 5Pillars and published on their own website on February 27, 2024.  

It was brought to our attention via our social media channels. Impress has not received a formal complaint from an individual or representative group, regarding this publication. 

A regulatory committee has determined the publication is in remit, engages the Code, and concerns a matter of public interest, therefore the Committee deemed there was a case to answer on this occasion.  

Our full Standards Code can be found here. We will be making no further comment on the investigation until it reaches its conclusion.   

About Impress-initiated investigations 

Under our Regulatory Scheme, Impress has powers to investigate potential Code breaches on our own initiative. This allows us to proactively address concerns about journalism standards, ensuring regulated publishers are adhering to the Impress Standards Code. 

Prior to launching a formal investigation, we first assess whether there is a case to answer. To do so, our regulatory team gathers evidence, contacts affected parties, and seeks expert advice where relevant. 

A regulatory committee appointed by the Impress Board then decides whether further investigation is required. 

If the committee decides the matter does not warrant further investigation, it will be closed. If the committee decides there is a case to answer, a formal investigation is launched. 

We will then communicate the case to the publisher, providing an opportunity to respond to the concerns. We consider any comments or other cooperative actions that the publisher makes, while gathering further evidence. 

The publisher is given time to prepare a response before the investigation decision is made public. If a breach is found, a publisher may be directed to take certain action. 

Such actions can include issuing corrections, apologies, and in some cases, paying a fine. All investigation decisions are published on the Impress website. 

Media enquiries

Louie Chandler: louie@impressreg.org.uk / 02033076778

About Impress 

Impress is a champion for news that can be trusted. We are here to make sure news providers can publish with integrity; and the public can engage in an ever-changing media landscape with confidence. We set the highest regulatory standards for news, offer education to help people make informed choices and provide resolution when disputes arise.