What to do if you have received a request from a journalist or media outlet
Don’t know if a media request is genuine or worthwhile? Want to share a media opportunity with the rest of NCAS? Undecided on being a spokesperson? Unsure on how to provide a quote? Need help with arranging an interview?
The NCAS Communications Team offers staff a range of services and support related to media relations, alongside the Press Office at your host institution. We can help with building relationships with journalists and media outlets, by writing and distributing press releases, tracking news coverage and hot topics, creating written content, and offering advice ahead of interviews or media briefings.
Contact the Communications Team
If you receive a media request by email, social media message, or over the phone – please forward it to the NCAS Communications Team.
Contact the team via their shared email inbox comms@ncas.ac.uk or by direct message to the National Centre for Atmospheric Science on LinkedIn, X (Twitter), Instagram, or Facebook. Alternatively, you can ring through to +44 (0) 113 343 4212 to speak to a member of the team.
Once you have passed on the request, the Communications team will get in touch to offer the most appropriate support. You can expect to be contacted by:
Harriett Richardson (Communications Manager, National Centre for Atmospheric Science)
Ilze Millere (Digital Communications Coordinator, National Centre for Atmospheric Science)
Eleanor Dixon (Mid-Life Upgrade Communications Officer, FAAM Airborne Laboratory, National Centre for Atmospheric Science)
Questions and actions to consider when contacted about a quote or interview
What is the topic of the story?
Helps assess whether it aligns with your expertise.
What specific aspects of this topic are you interested in?
Clarifies the focus and allows for tailored responses.
Why are you reaching out to me specifically?
Understands the journalist’s perspective on your expertise.
Are you looking for a quote, a full interview, or background information?
Determines the level of involvement needed.
Where will this be published or broadcast?
Ensures credibility and audience awareness.
Search for their previous work or similar stories
Helps gauge the journalist’s approach and reliability.
Who else are you speaking to for this piece?
Understand the broader context and potential biases.
Will this be a live interview, recorded, or written responses?
Helps appropriate preparation.
What is your deadline?
Ensures a timely response and time to prepare.
Will I have a chance to review my quotes for accuracy before publication?
Some journalists allow this, but not all.
How will you ensure my comments are not taken out of context?
Clarifies editorial integrity.
Is there a risk of my comments being politicised or misinterpreted?
Helps assess potential reputational risks.
If I feel uncomfortable with how the interview is going, can I withdraw my contribution?
Establishes boundaries in case of misrepresentation.
Can you send me a link when the piece is published?
Useful for sharing and reviewing accuracy.
Would you be open to a follow-up if I need to clarify anything?
Ensures corrections if needed.