The publisher of the Wall Street Journal has announced five-figure backing of a scheme aimed at increasing diversity in UK journalism.

Dow Jones will award £10,000 to the Journalism Diversity Fund, which is administered by the National Council for the Training of Journalists.

The fund awards bursaries to aspiring journalists from diverse backgrounds who do not have the financial means to support themselves through NCTJ diploma courses.

Those who receive JDF funding are also paired with a working journalist to mentor them throughout the duration of their studies, and many sponsoring news outlets offer work placement opportunities or insight days.

Recipients of the JDF

Thorold Barker, The Wall Street Journal’s editor for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, said: “We’re excited that this sponsorship will help the next generation of talented reporters from all backgrounds pursue their careers in journalism.

“We are committed to helping ensure that our newsroom and those around the country better reflect the diversity of their readers.”

The NCTJ recently announced an ambitious fundraising goal, aiming to increase annual donations to the JDF to half a million pounds.

Will Gore, the NCTJ’s head of partnerships and projects, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have Dow Jones on board as a sponsor of the Journalism Diversity Fund.

“The decision demonstrates the company’s commitment both to making newsrooms in the UK better reflect the communities they serve, and to quality journalism training.

“Dow Jones’ support, alongside the continued support of the fund’s existing sponsors, is particularly welcome as we celebrate this 15th anniversary year of the JDF with a renewed fundraising drive.

“And crucially it means we will be able to help more aspiring journalists who might otherwise not be able to pursue a career in our vital news industry.”