1/9. The last 18-hrs have seen headlines appearing in print & online leading on the first paramedic on scene at the Manchester bombing not treating anyone. Many from the pre-hospital & amb world have rightly challenged these headlines, this is exactly what is supposed to happen
2/9. Journalists & their editors seek to grab attention to gain readership but it is important that in doing so they do not, as in this case, mislead & misrepresent the truth of the matter.
3/9. Even if not covered at the inquiry, a call to any number of authoritative bodies (ie. @ParamedicsUK, @BASICS_HQ, @AACE_org , @NARU_Education) wld provide context & understanding to assist in delivering an accurate & contextualised story w accurate headline.
4/9. Why is this important? The truth is always important & no less interesting. Secondly the professionalism & integrity of the individual concerned is maintained & respected. Thirdly because misrepresenting a profession or organisation unjustly undermines public confidence.
5/9. Sticking w the individual at the centre of such stories; they are already suffering post incident distress, inaccurate & misleading reporting adds to this & leads to increasing #Moralinjury which is debilitating & deeply distressing.
6/9. #Moralinjury & mental health of 999 workers has been a focus of many media reports (many extremely supportive) & yet it seems that sections of that same media are willing to compound & contribute to an individual’s distress all for a sensationalist headline.
7/9. #theMedia, please do not ignore this or think that the matter is in the past. Talk to us & others, understand the issues at stake & strive to deliver the news accurately & with respect. It is in all of our interests.
8/9. Schools of Journalism, engage with us & ask us to come & lead workshops or contribute to your courses. These is an important topics that need understanding & addressing.
9/9. Meanwhile, the headline so many in the media needed yesterday: ‘Paramedic recounts being first on scene at the Manchester Arena bombing’.
• • •
Missing some Tweet in this thread? You can try to
force a refresh
