We're always looking for UK-focused op-eds, features and investigations covering social injustice, housing, immigration, racism, inequality and the environment. Terrible landlords? Send them our way. Home Office scoops? Bring ‘em. Evidence of systemic racism by any part of the system? Haul it in. Untold tales of climate change? From villains to heroes, we're interested in them all. We also welcome pitches on education and criminal justice, or lack thereof; and topics you think are crucial but neglected.
Importantly, we're after stories that encourage our readers to make an impact. Don't just submit an argument against inequality: reveal the policy (or lack of policy) behind it. Give us the bad guys - but the good ones too, and tell readers how they can lend a hand. Crucially, tell us who in power should be pressured, and how to make a difference.
We don’t just want solutions; we’re more about campaigning. This means not just proposing alternatives to the status quo but pushing the powers that be to enact them.
The perfect The Lead piece would tackle a systemic problem, propose a solution, and tell readers how they can help - whether by boosting those working for change or by pressuring and persuading those who resist it.
Here are some good examples:
This feature by Charlie Brinkhurst-Cuff on the safety of Black girls in schools.
This feature by Katherine Quarmby on how the NHS is failing adoptees.
This op-ed by Chantelle Lunt on homelessness not being a “lifestyle choice”.
This regional feature by Antonia Charlesworth Stack on Blackpool’s South Shore Romani Gypsies.
Our formats:
Op-eds, which start at £200 per piece and run between 800 - 1200 words.
Features, which start at £400 for about 1500 words.
For investigations, long reads etc., fees are considered on a case-by-case basis.
We are very open to collaborations with other publications, or to issuing letters of interest for freelancers applying for funds from journalism funders.
What we want in your pitch:
A clear outline of the angle and format.
For features, outline interviewees, including case studies and experts.
Links to relevant stats/ studies that support the piece.
Call to action.
Examples of previous work.
A line on why you’re the right person to write the story.
Specify if time-sensitive.
How to best reach us:
Email: pitches@thelead.uk.
Please note:
The Lead is a small editorial team, and many of us work part-time. We may not respond to every pitch.