Public Information for Public Support (From State of Corrections: Proceedings of ACA Annual Conferences, 1989, P 186-189, 1990, Ann Dargis, ed. -- See NCJ-122583)

• NCJ Number: 122612
• Author(s): F Talbott
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 4 pages
• Sale Source: American Correctional Association
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Corrections officials and the news media can establish a positive relationship that can promote public understanding and public support for corrections if corrections officials take a positive, proactive approach and design a thorough and realistic prison news beat for the media.

Abstract

Corrections officials should also recognize that public understanding and support is essential to corrections. They should save the media time by being prepared logistically, providing sufficient background material, and keeping them abreast of developments. The public information officer should think like an editor and consider potential stories. They must also promote an attitude among all correctional staff that ongoing efforts to inform the public are a crucial part of the overall mission of corrections. Other actions should include preparing an effective and active media contacts list, issuing press releases, setting up a speakers bureau, and meeting with staff weekly to generate ideas for media coverage. They should also avoid defensive attitudes and demonstrate the contributions and the real potential impact the corrections system has on society. Finally, they should share ideas and needs with other public information officers. 4 references.