Make headlines this Disability History Month: Speed pitching with News UK

Applications have now closed

We know how challenging it can be to get your story heard by the media. Navigating the complexities of approaching journalists and building strong media connections can be overwhelming. But fear not – we’re here to help you amplify your impact and get your story pitch-ready ahead of Disability History Month. 

Media Trust in partnership with News UK is offering a series of speed pitching events for underrepresented groups in preparation for key 2024/25 awareness days.  

Our next event will focus on empowering and uplifting the voices of disabled people for Disability History Month in November and International Day of Persons with Disabilities in December.

Join this exclusive event and gain expert media pitching training. Pitch your stories to top journalists and content producers from outlets including The Times, Talk, Virgin Radio UK and more!

This opportunity is ideal for charities looking for increased media exposure throughout Disability History Month between 14 November and 20 December 2024. 

How it works  

This exclusive opportunity is designed with charities in mind, created to sharpen your media pitching skills and gain invaluable insights from industry experts.  

The event kicks off with a one-hour masterclass led by a seasoned News UK journalist. You’ll gain an insider’s perspective on the current media landscape and learn the essential techniques for crafting compelling pitches that capture the attention of media and radio professionals. 

The session includes a Q&A, where you’ll have the chance to seek answers to your burning questions about pitching and leave feeling confident in your ability to secure media coverage for your cause. 

Following the masterclass, you’ll be divided into small breakout groups for an interactive pitching session.

You’ll present your key stories in a concise 60-90 second pitch to senior journalists from News UK, and receive immediate, expert and honest feedback on how to refine your pitch and seize the opportunity to have your story developed for Disability History Month. 

Each breakout group, comprising 2-3 charities and 2-3 journalists, will provide you with a unique platform to showcase your work. With multiple rotations, you’ll have the chance to pitch your story to up to 12 journalists, maximising your chances of securing impactful media coverage for your cause. 

You’ll have the opportunity to network with fellow charities and the journalists over lunch.

Don’t miss this chance to elevate your storytelling. With limited spaces available, sign up today to avoid missing out.

Why participate?  

• Expert training and support: Get guidance on crafting a compelling pitch that resonates with journalists.  
• On-the-spot feedback: Receive real-time advice from News UK journalists and producers to polish your pitch.  
• Nationwide exposure: A unique opportunity to gain UK-wide media coverage during Disability History Month. 
• Showcase impact: Highlight your work, raise your profile, and inspire others while creating lasting change.  
• Enhance skills: Improve your media engagement knowledge and confidence for obtaining future media exposure.   

Who should apply? 

This event is for disability charities and non-profits across the UK. Although your charity’s focus doesn’t have to be solely on disabled people, we do ask that the story you pitch revolves around raising awareness or empowering the voices of disabled people.   

Due to limited spaces, we can only accommodate one person per charity. You will be expected to come prepared with a 60-90 second pitch on a story that you would like to gain awareness on.  

Please note that the event will be taking place in person at News UK’s office in London. If you are a micro or small charity travelling from outside of Greater London, please let us know in your application if you need support with travel costs.  

The venue is fully accessible, but please let us know in your application form of any support or adjustments you may need.  

• Application deadline: 20 November 
• Shortlisting: 21 November 
• Applicants notified: 25 November 
• Online Charity Briefing: 27 November

Do you have any questions or need support in completing your application? Please contact Media Trust’s Events Manager Lara Harper at larah@mediatrust.org.  

Disability History Month 

UK Disability History Month (UKDHM), running from 14 November to 20 December 2024, is an annual event creating a platform to focus on the history of disabled people’s rights and their struggle for equality and human rights.  

International Day of Disabled Persons 

International Day of Persons with Disabilities falls on the 3 December each year, with the aim of promoting empowerment, and helping to create real opportunities for people with disabilities. 

About News UK  

News UK is one of the leading media businesses in the UK and Ireland. Their news brands include The Times, The Sunday Times, The Sun, The Sun on Sunday and The TLS. Their national broadcast brands include talkSPORT, Times Radio, Talk and Virgin Radio UK, and they have market-leading local stations across Ireland.  

Their world-famous brands provide news, analysis, opinion and entertainment to almost 50 million people each month, panning digital and print, audio and video, events and experiences. News UK is wholly owned by News Corp.