Content Writing: The Dos and Don’ts – Staying Lawful and Impactful – DISABLED ENTREPRENEUR

Disclaimer The content of this article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of publication, laws and regulations may change. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research or consult a qualified legal professional before taking any action based on the material presented. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organisations or platforms.

Understanding Legal Boundaries, Free Speech, and Ethical Responsibilities in Writing

Content writing is a powerful tool to inform, inspire, and influence. However, with that power comes a responsibility to write lawfully, ethically, and sensitively. In the age of digital platforms and mass communication, one must understand the boundaries of free speech, the risk of defamation, and how to avoid censorship or legal repercussions, especially when writing about politics, government policies, or controversial topics.

What Is Content Writing and Why It Matters

Content writing includes any written material intended for online or offline publication. This can range from blog posts, news articles, marketing copy, and website content to political commentary or personal opinions. For journalists, bloggers, activists, and citizen writers alike, content writing can become a voice for change — but it must remain within legal and ethical limits to avoid damaging reputations or breaking the law.

Dos of Content Writing

✅ Do Research Thoroughly

Before publishing any content, especially if you’re writing about a public figure, political body, or institution like the DWP, always fact-check your sources. Use reputable and verifiable information — ideally from official reports, direct quotes, or government websites.

✅ Do Protect Anonymity (When Needed)

If your article includes sensitive or personal content, protect the identity of individuals unless they’ve given explicit permission to be named. This avoids potential data protection issues and legal complaints.

✅ Do Credit Your Sources

Always credit external sources when quoting, referencing studies, or using statistics. Plagiarism — even accidental — can lead to reputational damage and copyright infringement claims.

✅ Do Use Your Voice for Change – Responsibly

Writers can and should write about politics, government bodies, and trending topics like the DWP, as this is part of public discourse and democratic freedom. However, it should be done with integrity, accuracy, and lawful language (more on this below).

Don’ts of Content Writing

❌ Don’t Defame Individuals

Under UK law, defamation (libel in written form) occurs when false statements are published that harm someone’s reputation. Even if unintentional, naming someone without evidence or factual accuracy can result in legal action. Avoid:

Calling someone corrupt or criminal without proof.
Using insults or accusatory language about identifiable individuals.

❌ Don’t Publish Private or Confidential Information

Avoid writing about someone’s health, finances, or personal life unless the information is already in the public domain or you have consent. Under the UK GDPR and Human Rights Act, privacy is a protected right.

❌ Don’t Incite Hatred or Violence

Avoid publishing any material that could be interpreted as inciting racial hatred, violence, or discriminatory rhetoric. Doing so could fall under hate crime laws or communications offences under the Communications Act 2003 or Public Order Act 1986.

❌ Don’t Plagiarise

Plagiarism can result in copyright claims and reputational damage. Always write original content and avoid copy-pasting from other sources unless properly cited.

Freedom of Speech: What Are Your Rights as a Writer?

In the UK, freedom of expression is protected under Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998, which allows individuals to express opinions and impart information without interference by public authorities. However, this right is not absolute.

Freedom of speech can be limited to protect:

National security
Public safety
Prevention of disorder or crime
Protection of health or morals
Protection of the reputation or rights of others

This means you can write about politics, the DWP, government decisions, and social injustices — but you must do so without breaching other laws such as defamation, incitement, or data protection laws.

Is It Legal to Criticise the Government and Suggest Reform?

Yes. In fact, democratic society thrives on healthy critique and constructive reform ideas. It is entirely legal to:

Criticise government policies
Highlight flaws in systems like Universal Credit or PIP
Call out political decisions or MP behaviour
Suggest strategies for reform, cost-saving, or structural improvements

However, avoid:

Making unsubstantiated accusations
Personally attacking MPs or ministers without factual basis
Inciting unrest or publishing extreme political propaganda

Keep your tone professional, constructive, and focused on policy — not personal vendettas.

Topics That Require Extra Caution

Certain subjects are legally or ethically sensitive, including:

Ongoing court cases (risk of contempt of court)
Mental health or disability assessments (ensure consent and accuracy)
Religious or racial topics (watch for hate speech or bias)
Whistleblowing (ensure you understand protections and limitations)

Clarification on Mental Health and Disability Topics

Writing about disability assessments, such as PIP or Universal Credit medical evaluations, is entirely lawful and often necessary to highlight systemic issues, discrimination, or injustice. However, caution is advised when sharing personal case studies, medical information, or individual experiences, especially if they involve named professionals, consultants, assessors, or other third parties. To remain compliant with privacy and defamation laws, writers should:

Obtain consent if identifying another person, even indirectly
Redact names unless the information is already in the public domain
Stick to factual accuracy when describing medical conditions or treatment
Avoid making unverified claims about medical negligence or misconduct

It is completely acceptable to campaign for reform, report on flaws in the assessment process, and describe personal experiences — provided the content respects confidentiality, avoids defamatory language, and is clearly framed as either fact or opinion.

If in doubt, seek legal advice before publishing.

Avoiding Censorship While Remaining Lawful

To avoid censorship or takedown notices (especially from platforms or hosting providers), ensure your writing:

It is balanced and avoids inflammatory language
Complies with the platform’s terms of service
It is based on facts and analysis, not personal attacks
Includes disclaimers where appropriate (e.g., “opinion” pieces)

Social Media, Hate Speech, and the Law

Writers and content creators must be especially cautious on social media, where posts can go viral quickly and are often scrutinised more intensely. The recent case of Lucy Connelly, who received a custodial sentence for posting racial slurs online, has sparked national debate, but it also serves as a critical reminder of the boundaries of lawful expression. While freedom of speech is protected in the UK, it does not extend to hate speech. Under the Public Order Act 1986, inciting racial hatred is a criminal offence. Comments that target individuals or communities based on race, religion, disability, or sexual orientation can lead to prosecution. The law rightly distinguishes between holding an opinion and promoting hate, and content creators must remain mindful of this when publishing online or responding to sensitive topics in the public domain.

Conclusion: Empower Your Voice, Respect the Law

Content writing is a form of activism, education, and advocacy, but it must be done within the framework of the law. Writers can discuss politics, government failures, social injustice, and even offer strategies for reform. The more balanced, factual, and well-reasoned your writing is, the stronger your voice becomes. Write with integrity, protect your legal position, and always strive to inform rather than inflame.