The hyperlocal trade body has revealed it has given out 80 new membership cards since the start of the coronavirus crisis.

The Independent Community News Network has issued the cards which verify the holder as a professional member of the press after realising its members may “struggle to access news events” during lockdown.

HTFP reported last week how the crisis had prompted a “surge” in demand for press cards.

The News Media Association said it had issued more than twice as many press cards in March 2020 than in the same month last year.

ICNN communications and project officer Matt Abbott said: “Without easy access to press cards due to the fact many are not earning the majority of their income from journalism, many of our members were going to struggle to access news events.”

He added: “Independent community journalism is essential in a functioning democracy. The need for people to be able to access independent, verifiable news and information from local publications is now more essential than ever.

“During the lockdown we saw our members traffic double as audiences were seeking out trusted and sources of news.

“ICNN has now issued over 80 membership cards to ensure that our members can continue providing this valuable service.

“Each membership card carries a unique identification number and information that verifies the card holder as a professional member of the press.

“While they are not press cards, they serve as an essential piece of identification for our members during this time of national emergency.”

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