Source quality depends on the question. We aim to use sources that are traceable, relevant, and strong enough to support the claim being made.
Preferred sources
For UK medical and public-health material, priority is generally given to NHS resources, NICE guidance, MHRA information, GOV.UK publications, recognised professional bodies, and peer-reviewed research. For legal and regulatory questions, primary legislation and official government or regulator material are preferred.
Research papers
A single study may be useful without being conclusive. We consider study design, sample size, population, limitations, publication status, and whether the finding is consistent with broader evidence before relying on it for a strong conclusion.
Commercial and informal sources
Commercial websites, forums, social media, and first-person accounts may sometimes help explain terminology, claims, or lived experience, but they should not be used as the sole support for important medical, legal, or safety claims.
Links and references
Where references are provided, they are intended to let readers inspect the underlying material. A link does not imply endorsement of everything published by the external source.