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Medical publisher to give financial backing to NCTJ diversity fund

Chris JonesA medical journal’s publisher has become the latest financial backer of the NCTJ’s Journalism Diversity Fund.

The BMJ has been unveiled as an official partner of the scheme, which helps from disadvantaged backgrounds to undertake professional journalism training.

The publisher will also actively participate in the JDF’s mentoring programme, offering successful candidates the chance to gain insights into its specialised branch of journalism.

Last year the JDF offered assistance to a record 59 individuals after increasing the number of media partners involved in the scheme, which now stands at 19.

BMJ chief executive officer Chris Jones, pictured, said: “At BMJ, our vision is to help create a healthier world for all.

“We know that to fulfil that vision, we need to identify with the communities we support.

“That’s why we are delighted that this partnership allows us to directly impact underrepresented groups of people in a positive way.”

Will Gore, head of partnerships and projects at the NCTJ, said: “It is brilliant to welcome BMJ as a supporter of the JDF, as we work together to ensure that people can get access to professional journalism training, whatever their background.

“We love being able to open people’s eyes to the wide variety of opportunities that exist in the industry, and are hugely looking forward to connecting the students we support with The BMJ’s highly specialised form of journalism.

“The growth of the JDF in the last couple of years has demonstrated just how much commitment there is in our sector to diversifying newsrooms.

“The track record of the scheme speaks for itself, and it’s great that so many employers – who will ultimately benefit from the talent of JDF alumni – are offering their support.”