Who issues news releases on behalf of the Church of Scotland?

All news releases on behalf of the Church of Scotland nationally and its councils, forums and departments will be issued by the Communications Department. This includes releases on behalf of CrossReach, the Social Care Council of the Church, the Guild General Trustees and other such bodies.

News releases concerning local events or issues can be issued by Presbyteries and congregations. Indeed, such action is very much encouraged. The Communications Department is resourced to offer general guidance to Presbyteries and congregations and bespoke guidance when a story of national significance arises.

All media statements – releases or responses – which could involve potential legal issues must be cleared by the Head of the Law Department. The Communications Department will check that this has been done before issuing any such statement.

All quotes should be approved directly by the individual quoted. In joint news releases, any partner organisations/groups quoted must approve the release before issue.

While the Communications team will make every effort to keep key people informed, "scripting by committee" can take hours and sometimes days, leaving the Church badly exposed. If protocol leaves any doubt the team should establish who is the appropriate lead person to advise and sign off the final draft of a statement. If the Convener is unavailable the Principal Clerk will be the lead person or nominate someone else.