The Society of Editors has launched the News Podcast Awards 2026, dedicated to recognising excellence in news podcast journalism and the people producing it across the industry.
Opening for entries next month, the awards are designed to celebrate journalism that informs audiences, scrutinises power and helps shape the national conversation, with winners to be revealed at an awards lunch in central London in June.
The new initiative will recognise the work of journalists and producers using podcasting to deliver high-quality news and current affairs coverage, with entries judged through a clear editorial lens focusing on impact, depth, public interest and engaging storytelling.
Dawn Alford, Chief Executive of the Society of Editors, said podcasting has become one of the most important ways journalists explain complex issues and break stories in depth, adding that news podcast journalism across the UK is playing an increasingly influential role in public debate.
She said the News Podcast Awards will be assessed by more than sixty journalists and editors, bringing real newsroom experience and strong editorial standards to the judging process.
The awards will be free to enter and open to any podcast producing news and current affairs journalism, including submissions from national and regional news organisations, television and radio broadcasters, and independent journalists.
Categories are expected to cover investigative reporting, true crime, politics, interviews and regional or community journalism, alongside additional awards reflecting the growing range and innovation within modern news podcasting.
Full details, including the complete list of categories, entry criteria and judging arrangements, will be published on the Society of Editors website in the coming days.
The Society of Editors represents more than five hundred editors and news leaders, campaigning for freedom of expression, high editorial standards and the public’s right to know, with support from Allwyn and VodafoneThree.
