Supporters Guide to Writing a Press Release

If you are taking part in a fundraising event, or holding your own event, you might like to contact the local newspaper to raise awareness of your event.  If so, you will need to send them a press release.  We have created a quick guide to writing one:

  • Start your press release with For Immediate Release
  • Use the five Ws – who, what, where, when and why
  • Explain that you are organising this event or taking part in this activity ‘in aid of Children’s Heart Federation’
  • Personalise it:  Include a quote from yourself about why you have chosen to hold the event for the Children’s Heart Federation (eg in memory of a friend or relative who has a heart condition, to support a current appeal, or any other reason personal to you)
  • Include contact details if you are selling tickets and/or for anyone who wants additional information or wants to participate
  • Include your expectations of the event/activity.  Eg:  how much you are aiming to raise for the Children’s Heart Federation, or how many tickets you are hoping to sell
  • Mention any local celebrities or dignitaries that you may have attending, opening or even judging this event.  Eg:  the local mayor, local GP, or radio broadcaster.  This will encourage people (and even the press) to attend.
  • At the end of the release, include a section called ‘notes to Editor’, which contains supplementary background information
    You will want to include your own phone number here for a journalist to contact you.

And then some information about Children’s Heart Federation:

  • The Children’s Heart Federation is the leading national charity and the umbrella body for voluntary organisations working to meet the needs of children and young people affected by congenital and acquired heart conditions.
  • The Children’s Heart Federation works hard to raise awareness of congenital heart conditions and bring about permanent improvements in the social and medical care of heart children.
  • Every year, the Children’s Heart Federation give thousands of families the advice, information, and practical support they need through a free information line and a series of factsheets, as well as support grants and medical equipment.

You can download a CHF Sample Press Release to see all of these tips in action.