Three news organisations including a hyperlocal website have become the latest to sign up to independent press regulator Impress.

The Bureau of Investigative Journalism, openDemocracy and The Bristol Cable have all signed up to the regulator which was set up following the Leveson Inquiry.

Impress was given regulator status by the Press Recognition Panel established by Royal Charter in 2014, but most mainstream publishers regarded this as statutory regulation of the press, and decided instead to set up their own watchdog, IPSO.

Most of the industry subsequently signed up to IPSO, but more than 200 publications including several hyperlocal titles have opted instead for Impress.

Bristol Cable strategic lead Eliz Mizon, pictured, said: “Our decision to be regulated by Impress is not only beneficial to the Cable itself, due to the support available for us in the event of bad actors seeking to derail our work.

“It’s also beneficial for our readers, members and those who appear in our reporting, who can better understand the ways our work conforms to codes of conduct, and how to seek redress if they feel it necessary.

“Impress’ model follows the best practice recommended after the Leveson Inquiry into the culture, practices and ethics of the press, and is the only regulator that can ensure the public of our trustworthiness and reflect our commitment to transparency.”

Chair of Impress, Richard Ayre, also shared his delight at the latest signings.

He said: “With readers turning away from the old national newspapers and seeking their news online, I am delighted that three of the most innovative publishers this country has to offer are joining Impress.

“By providing serious, enquiring, groundbreaking news to local, national and international audiences, these are tomorrow’s media. By joining Impress they’ve made a public commitment to integrity: confident journalists happy to be publicly accountable for their conduct as well as their content.”

Impress Chief Executive Lexie Kirkconnell-Kawana added: “As Impress reaches the end of its first decade, it is incredibly heartening to see these prestigious platforms eager to join the membership.

“I welcome TBIJ, openDemocracy and The Bristol Cable and applaud them for their leadership in adopting truly independent self-regulation and hope others will follow.”

The Bureau Of Investigative Journalism is a non-profit publisher, founded in 2010, by David and Elaine Potter.

CEO and editor-in-chief Rosina Breen said: “We are delighted to join the latest cohort of publishers joining Impress. Accountability journalism and the need for truth and trust have never been more vital.”

OpenDemocracy is an independent international media platform that challenges power, inspires change and helps communities around the world strive for a better future.

Editor-in-chief Aman Sethi said: “openDemocracy’s journalists around the world pride themselves on adhering to the highest standards of ethical journalism. Joining Impress is part of this commitment to reporting with honesty, accountability and rigour.”