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Spokesperson Training

Spokesperson Training

The Spokesperson Network trains and supports people to speak on television and radio

Applications are now closed for the next round of spokesperson network training.

We look for people who are working on issues that push for big progressive change in society and who would like to use the media to talk about the things they are working on.

The programme works by training, coaching and providing TV and radio booking support for spokespeople. The aim is to substantially boost the number of progressive, diverse voices in this space, to challenge pervasive narratives and boost coverage of underrepresented issues.

So far we’ve had over 11000 high-profile media bookings, including Question Time, Newsnight, Good Morning Britain, LBC, Channel 4 News, BBC 5 Live, Today, Sky News and ITV News.

We particularly welcome voices from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds in broadcast media, including working-class, LGBTQ+, people of colour, and disabled voices.

Applications are currently closed.

Key outcomes

We know this work isn’t easy. This training has been developed and honed to equip spokespeople with the messaging insights, interview skills and digital support to meet this moment.

As part of the training you will receive:

- Tips and tricks to quickly prepare for broadcast interviews
- A messaging framework that has been proven to push back against the divide and rule tactics of our opponents
- A digital follow up training to boost your profile online and make the most of broadcast interviews
- A supportive community and safety precaution conversation about how to navigate hostility online

Participants will have booking support for interviews following on from training, as part of our wider NEON network. When you join the Spokesperson Network you join the ranks of other progressive voices across a range of issues - not just your own. There are opportunities to socialise, share thoughts and learn from each other across the year.

Who is this training for?

We are looking for people who want to do media and see it as a critical tool to shift public opinion. People who want to hone their media skills so that they can confidently engage in the public debate. We’re looking for voices that can cut through the noise and shift the conversation. That includes voices that are working class, from communities of colour, or other voices that have been underrepresented in the media so far.

What does the programme involve?

The programme consists of three days of training where we will cover everything from messaging and storytelling to interview preparation and non-verbal communication. Participants will practise a series of different interview formats in front of a camera with framing experts, producers and journalists.
Application process
We will shortlist applicants and conduct informal 15-minute online interviews before selecting the final 10 participants. Applications can be made in multiple formats:
- Standard Google Form
- Audio or voice note
- Video in spoken English or BSL
- Word or PDF version of the standard application form

Fees

Grassroots / Unpaid Organiser: Free (scholarship place)

Small Org (annual budget ~£100k): £400 + 20% VAT

Medium Org (annual budget ~£500k): £900 + 20% VAT

Large Org (annual budget ~£2m+): £2000 + 20% VAT

Running date
The training will run 4 times each year.
Any questions about the training or accessibility please email molly@neweconomyorganisers.org