ABSW runs a survey on diversity and barriers in UK science journalism

Photo credits: Mark Lewis Photography

Diversity isn’t just a buzzword. Whether you’re new to the ABSW or just need a reminder, we want to emphasise that the ABSW Board is committed to making both our association and our profession more inclusive, diverse and representative. It’s not just a goal — it’s a priority.

That’s why we’ve launched and supported a range of initiatives — from diversity scholarships for our Summer School and the UK Conference of Science Journalists, to our partnership with UKRI as Lead Diversity and Inclusion Partner, to dedicated sessions and resources on equity and inclusion [here and here]. We’re taking action — but we know there’s still a lot to learn, and we want to ground that work in real evidence.

That’s where you come in. Together with the Science Communication Unit at the University of the West of England, we’re running a survey to explore the barriers to entering science journalism in the UK as well as the challenges faced by journalists working in the field — and we need your input. The research is being led by Andy Ridgway, a senior lecturer at UWE and an ABSW Board member, and is part of the COALESCE project, an EU-funded initiative that supports journalism and science communication across Europe.

🎯 What’s the survey about?
This is one of the first studies of its kind in the UK looking specifically at diversity and barriers to entering science journalism, including broadcasting, podcasting and science writing, as well as the challenges faced by working science journalists. It asks about:

• Your current employment situation
• Whether you’ve faced barriers entering the field
• Any experience of discrimination, harassment or hate speech linked to your work
• And a few other things that will help us understand what needs to change

You can always skip questions or select “Prefer not to say” — and all responses will remain confidential.

⏱️ The survey takes around 30 minutes to complete. Yes, it’s a bit of a commitment — but please stick with it till the end. The insights you provide will help us better understand the challenges people face and how we can drive meaningful change.

📬 Who can take part?
We’re inviting journalists and science writers whose work is primarily published or broadcast in the UK to take part — including freelancers, staff writers, broadcasters, podcasters, editors and more. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, your perspective matters. Feel free to share it with your peers as well.

Take the survey here

🗓️When is the deadline?
Please complete our survey by 5 pm (UK time) on Monday, 14 July 2025.

Your answers will help us — and our partners — build a clearer picture of what’s happening in science journalism today, and what needs to change for tomorrow.

Thanks, as always, for being part of this community — and for lending your voice to something that could make a real difference.