Our commitment to accuracy
WordPatch.co.uk is committed to publishing accurate, reliable and trustworthy content. When we make a mistake, we correct it promptly and transparently. This policy outlines how we handle corrections, how readers can report errors and what steps we take to ensure our editorial record remains clear and honest.
How to report an error
If you spot a factual error, misleading statement or omission in any of our articles, please email corrections@wordpatch.co.uk. To help us investigate efficiently, include:
- the full URL or headline of the article
- a clear description of the error and where it appears
- any supporting evidence or sources that confirm the correct information
- your name and an optional contact method if you would like a follow-up
You may also contact our editorial team via our contact page or by post. All correction requests are treated seriously and confidentially.
How we handle corrections
All reported errors are reviewed by the Standards & Fact-Checking desk under Thomas Ellery (Standards & Fact-Checking Lead). Thomas oversees the verification process and decides whether a correction is required. For information about our broader standards, see our Editorial Policy and Fact-Checking Policy.
Once an error is confirmed, we take the following steps:
- Material factual errors – The article is updated to correct the mistake, and a clear correction note is appended at the bottom of the page. The note follows this format: “Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated [issue]. The article was updated on [date].” The date of the correction is always included.
- Update notes – Where new information is added to an existing article (for example, a clarification or an additional source), we add an update note explaining what was added and the date. This is separate from a correction and helps readers track changes.
- Minor errors – Typographical errors, spelling mistakes and grammatical issues that do not affect the factual accuracy of the content are corrected silently. No public note is added for such changes.
If we determine that an error is serious or could cause significant misunderstanding, the matter is immediately escalated to Harriet Langford, Editor-in-Chief, who reviews the handling and ensures appropriate action. Serious errors may also prompt a broader review of the article or the relevant editorial process.
Response times
We aim to acknowledge all correction submissions within five working days. Complex cases that require additional research or fact-checking may take longer; in such instances we will notify the reporter of the expected timeline.
We do not guarantee a correction for every minor issue, but we will respond to every request that relates to a substantive error. If you are not satisfied with how your correction was handled, please refer to our Complaints Procedure.
Transparency and accountability
Correction notes remain permanently visible on the article page. We do not rewrite history without acknowledgement. For more detail on how we maintain the accuracy of our reviews, tools coverage and other content types, see our Reviews Policy and Fact-Checking Policy. Information about our funding and commercial relationships is available on Ownership & Funding and Advertising & Affiliate Disclosure.
If you have any questions about this policy, or wish to report an issue directly to Thomas Ellery, you can reach the standards desk at corrections@wordpatch.co.uk or via the contact form on our website.