Sonja Jessup – The Inspiring Journey of BBC News Home Affairs Correspondent

Sonja Jessup is a respected British journalist and television presenter, best known for her impactful role as the Home Affairs Correspondent at BBC News. With more than a decade of experience in broadcast journalism, she has earned recognition for her clarity, professionalism, and ability to tell complex stories with a human touch. From presenting BBC London’s flagship bulletins to reporting on some of the most pressing issues in crime and justice, Sonja Jessup has built an outstanding career grounded in credibility, integrity, and public trust.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Education of Sonja Jessup

Although much of Sonja Jessup’s early life remains private, her academic achievements reveal her passion for storytelling and communication from a young age. She pursued her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Language at The University of Manchester, graduating with First-Class Honours in 2001. Her excellence in language and analytical skills laid the foundation for her career in journalism.

Following her undergraduate studies, she advanced her professional training with a Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism at City, University of London and St George’s, University of London between 2001 and 2002. This qualification gave her the technical expertise and editorial understanding essential for broadcast reporting.

Her educational background reflects not only academic brilliance but also a strong commitment to mastering the craft of journalism, a quality that has been evident throughout her distinguished career.

Sonja Jessup’s Career Journey at BBC News

BBC London – The Beginning of a Remarkable Career

Sonja Jessup began her long-standing association with the BBC over a decade ago. Her journey started in March 2014, when she joined BBC London News as a TV Presenter and Reporter under the title of Senior Broadcast Journalist.

During this period, she presented key bulletins including the 6:30 PM flagship programme, 10:25 PM late news, 1:30 PM lunchtime updates, and the breakfast bulletins. Her presenting style was calm, articulate, and engaging—earning her a loyal viewership across London.

Beyond the studio, Sonja Jessup also worked as a senior reporter, covering live and breaking news events. She was known for her ability to handle fast-paced stories, from city crime scenes to community issues, often broadcasting live on location. Her work extended across television, radio, and online platforms, reflecting her versatility as a multimedia journalist.

Home Affairs Correspondent – Covering Crime and Justice

In April 2022, Sonja Jessup transitioned into her current role as Home Affairs Correspondent at BBC News, covering stories related to crime, policing, justice, and public safety. This role has allowed her to explore some of the most important issues facing communities across London and the wider United Kingdom.

She reports on law enforcement challenges, community safety initiatives, judicial reforms, and high-profile criminal investigations. Her reporting style remains grounded and human-focused—balancing data, policy, and real-world impact.

Over the years, she has become a trusted source for accurate and balanced information in areas where clarity and integrity are essential. Her reporting not only informs but also gives a voice to those affected by systemic issues in policing and justice.

Professional Expertise and Skills

Master of Broadcast Journalism

With more than eleven years at the BBC, Sonja Jessup exemplifies the skills of an experienced broadcaster. Her clear articulation, concise storytelling, and calm presence under pressure have made her a familiar and trusted face on screen.

She combines editorial judgment, on-camera confidence, and reporting precision to deliver stories that resonate with the public. Her deep understanding of Home Affairs enables her to break down complex subjects, from crime statistics to social policy, in a way that viewers can easily understand.

Commitment to Ethical Journalism

Throughout her career, Sonja Jessup has demonstrated a strong commitment to journalistic ethics. She consistently upholds the BBC’s values of impartiality, fairness, and accountability. Her stories often centre around justice, equality, and the impact of institutional decisions on everyday people—making her reporting both informative and empathetic.

Her work as a Home Affairs Correspondent places her in situations requiring sensitivity and discretion, particularly when reporting on victims, crime scenes, or judicial proceedings. This professionalism has earned her respect from both viewers and colleagues.

Sonja Jessup’s Presence on Social Media

Outside her broadcast duties, Sonja Jessup maintains an active and engaging presence on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter) under the handle @sonjajessup. With over 6,000 followers, she shares updates on major BBC stories, personal reflections, and moments from her life as a journalist.

Her posts often provide glimpses into her daily professional life, sometimes balanced with light-hearted family moments. For instance, she once shared a proud tweet about her “baby girl going full Peaky Blinders”, giving her followers a small, warm insight into her personal world.

Personal Life of Sonja Jessup

While Sonja Jessup is known for keeping her private life away from the media spotlight, certain details are public. She is married to Chris Slegg, a fellow BBC journalist and sports reporter. The couple occasionally reference each other’s professional achievements on social media, revealing a supportive and affectionate relationship.

Her tweets indicate that she has at least one daughter, often referred to affectionately as her baby girl. These small personal glimpses show her as not only a professional journalist but also a devoted mother and wife.

Although she rarely shares personal information beyond these glimpses, her balance between professional dedication and family life resonates with many working parents.

Achievements and Recognition

Over her eleven-year tenure with the BBC, Sonja Jessup has covered a wide range of high-profile stories—from crime reports and community investigations to national justice debates. Her ability to deliver reliable information in a calm and professional tone has made her a respected figure in British broadcasting.

She has also earned recognition within journalistic circles for her contribution to public awareness around issues of safety, justice, and policing reforms. Though she maintains a low public profile, her influence on local and national journalism continues to grow.

Contact and Professional Outlook

For those who wish to reach her professionally, Sonja Jessup can be contacted through her official BBC email address: sonja.jessup@bbc.co.uk. She welcomes story tips and insights from the public, particularly concerning crime, policing, and community safety issues across London.

As she continues her career, Sonja Jessup represents a new generation of journalists who combine traditional reporting integrity with modern communication methods. Her dedication to accurate storytelling and commitment to the truth ensure that she remains one of BBC London’s most valued correspondents.

Conclusion

Sonja Jessup stands as a shining example of excellence in British journalism. Her steady career growth—from presenting BBC London’s key programmes to becoming a leading Home Affairs Correspondent—reflects her talent, discipline, and passion for meaningful reporting.

Through her education, experience, and empathy-driven journalism, she continues to inspire audiences and aspiring reporters alike. Whether on television or social media, Sonja Jessup remains a trusted and influential voice within the BBC and the wider British media landscape.

FAQs

1. Who is Sonja Jessup?

Sonja Jessup is a British journalist and broadcaster who works as the Home Affairs Correspondent and Presenter for BBC London News and BBC News. She covers stories related to crime, policing, and justice across the UK.

2. Where did Sonja Jessup study?

She completed her Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Language at The University of Manchester (First-Class Honours) and later earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from City, University of London and St George’s, University of London.

3. How long has Sonja Jessup worked for the BBC?

Sonja Jessup has been with the BBC for over 11 years, starting in 2014 as a presenter and reporter before becoming a Home Affairs Correspondent in 2022.

4. Is Sonja Jessup married?

Yes, she is married to Chris Slegg, a BBC sports journalist. They occasionally reference each other on social media, highlighting their shared career and mutual support.