Case Studies

Press abuse is not an abstraction. These are the stories of people whose lives were changed by what newspapers chose to print about them — and who went on to demand a better press.

Prince Harry, Meghan Markle & Press Intrusion
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle & Press Intrusion

Repeated instances of press intrusion on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle highlight continuing failures in accountability and raise the need for reform.

2020
Harassment & sustained intrusion
Hugh Grant & Phone Hacking
Hugh Grant & Phone Hacking

Hugh Grant's discovery of journalists hacking his phone is representative of a broader issue which affects families, victims of crimes and many others.

2011
Phone hacking
Hillsborough & Press Injustice
Hillsborough & Press Injustice

In the aftermath of the Hillsborough disaster, false narratives by the press persisted, raising issues of accountability and how it shapes public understanding.

1989
Misrepresentation & inaccuracy
The McCann Family & Sustained Press Intrusion
The McCann Family & Sustained Press Intrusion

Press intrusion on the McCann family after the disappearance of their daughter, Madeleine, shows how press abuse can affect ordinary individuals and families.

2007
Harassment & sustained intrusion
Milly Dowler & the Phone Hacking Scandal
Milly Dowler & the Phone Hacking Scandal

An investigation into the disappearance of Milly Dowler revealed journalists hacked her phone, concerning press ethics and unhealthy relations with the police.

2002
Phone hacking
Christopher Jefferies & Trial-by-Media
Christopher Jefferies & Trial-by-Media

Christopher Jefferies was falsely accused by newspapers connecting him to a 2010 murder, showing how anyone can be a victim of press abuse.

2010
Trial by media
Sienna Miller & Phone Hacking
Sienna Miller & Phone Hacking

Actor Sienna Miller's phone was hacked by journalists, which illuminated how this practice was routine in some newsrooms and not an isolated incident.

2011
Phone hacking
Danielle Hindley
Danielle Hindley

Beautician Danielle Hindley was subject to false allegations from the Mail on Sunday over work conduct, representative of the failures of press self-regulation.

2017
Misrepresentation & inaccuracy
Mandy Garner
Mandy Garner

Journalist Mandy Garner was subject to intrusive press coverage following the death of her daughter, highlighting press abuse in moments of grief.

2020
Intrusion into grief & shock
Jacqui Hames
Jacqui Hames

Jacqui Hames was subject to phone hacking by journalists who intercepted private and confidential communications, leading to personal and institutional harm.

2012
Phone hacking