The press watchdog has launched a new online resource to help journalists covering sensitive subjects.

The Independent Press Standards Organisation has unveiled a directory which features a list of organisations journalists can consult if they require more information about topics such as religion, mental health, transgender people and childhood abuse.

Organisations offering advice about reporting on domestic abuse, victims of crime, suicide prevention, sexual offences survivors and the group known as Daesh also feature.

Contact details are included in the directory, with links to media guidelines produced by some of the organisations also appearing.

In a piece announcing the directory’s launch, IPSO standards officer Rosemary Douce wrote: “We know that journalists often face tight deadlines and this is intended to be a one-stop shop where they can go and easily find relevant information.

“These resources may help them to produce rich and varied content and may assist in complying with the Editors’ Code of Practice, particularly relating to the accuracy of their articles. The page includes a brief description of organisations and their contact details, with links to their media guidelines, if applicable.

“We have a commitment to press standards which goes beyond complaints handling, and we believe it will be worthwhile to have an up-to-date collection of resources and this is part of our work to support journalists in producing high quality content.

“All of the organisations featured recognise the important role the media can have in raising awareness of sensitive subjects which affect so many people in society, and which are widely reported in the media.”

The directory can be found here.