names

A name is an expression of a person’s identity and should be treated with care.

On first reference, use a person’s first name or given name and surname (last name). On second reference, only a surname is used. Be aware that in some cultures, the practice is to put the surname first followed by the given name.

If necessary, in a news item to distinguish between two people with the same or similar surnames, then use both the given and surnames throughout. In longer news items, it may be necessary to reintroduce the person using both the given and surname. For children, it is okay to use only a first name or given name.

When to use a first name or given name instead of surnames:

• In lighthearted stories or columns, given names (first names) may be more appropriate, especially for children under the age of 18.

When to withhold a name:

• As a general rule, do not name people who have been raped or sexually assaulted, unless that person advises us otherwise themselves.
• Names of children under the age of 18 are withheld when they have been the victim of a crime or when they are charged with a crime in the juvenile court system.
• When an anonymous source is in physical danger by publishing their name and has been verified by both the reporter and is known by at least one editor. See pseudonyms.

Also see deadnames.

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