Claire Graham: The Trusted Voice of BBC News NI and a Leading Figure in British Radio Journalism
Claire Graham is one of the most respected and recognisable voices in contemporary Northern Irish journalism. As a Senior Journalist and Radio Presenter at BBC News NI, she has built a career defined by credibility, versatility, and editorial authority. Working confidently across television, radio, and digital platforms, Claire Graham represents the modern BBC journalist: informed, adaptable, and deeply connected to public service broadcasting.
Based in Belfast, Claire Graham is also widely known as the presenter of The Explanation on the BBC World Service, as well as a regular voice on BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Radio Foyle. Alongside her broadcasting work, she is an experienced event host and panel moderator, trusted to lead discussions on complex political, social, and cultural issues.
Claire Graham BBC NI: A Senior Journalist with Authority
A Key Figure at BBC News Northern Ireland
Claire Graham BBC NI is currently a Senior Journalist at BBC News Northern Ireland, a role she has held since May 2021. In this position, she contributes to some of the most important regional journalism in the UK, reporting on court cases, public policy, breaking news, and in-depth human-interest stories.
Her work reflects the BBC’s core values of accuracy, impartiality, and public trust. Whether reporting from the courtroom, covering press conferences, or delivering carefully balanced analysis, Claire is recognised for her calm delivery and rigorous editorial standards.
Multi-Platform Journalism in Practice
One of Claire Graham’s defining strengths is her ability to work seamlessly across platforms. As a journalist presenter, she produces and delivers content for television, radio, and online audiences. This multi-platform expertise ensures that stories reach diverse audiences while maintaining journalistic integrity across formats.
Claire Graham Radio Presenter: A Recognised Voice on UK and Global Radio
BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Radio Foyle
As a Claire Graham radio presenter, she is regularly heard on BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Radio Foyle, where her clear, authoritative voice has become familiar to listeners across Northern Ireland. Her radio work includes news bulletins, interviews, live reporting, and analytical segments that explain complex issues in an accessible way.
Radio journalism demands precision, strong storytelling, and trustworthiness. Claire’s ability to communicate clearly without sensationalism has made her a valued broadcaster within the BBC’s radio network.
Presenter of The Explanation on BBC World Service
Claire Graham’s profile extends beyond regional broadcasting through her role as presenter of The Explanation on the BBC World Service. This programme focuses on unpacking major global and regional issues, helping audiences understand the “why” behind the headlines.
Her involvement with the World Service highlights her credibility as a journalist capable of addressing international audiences while maintaining clarity and neutrality.
Career Journey: From Early Reporting to Senior Leadership
Early Career and Freelance Journalism
Claire Graham began her professional journey after completing her journalism training with hands-on experience in local and national media. She worked as a Freelance Broadcast Journalist at Citybeat Radio and as a Freelance Journalist with the Belfast Telegraph, where she developed strong foundations in hard news reporting, court coverage, shorthand, and data analysis.
These early roles allowed her to refine essential journalistic skills such as sourcing stories, conducting interviews, and producing accurate copy under pressure.
BBC Radio 5 Live Experience
Between 2016 and 2019, Claire Graham worked as a Broadcast Journalist and Newsreader at BBC Radio 5 Live. This role placed her at the heart of national UK news output, further strengthening her editorial judgement and live broadcasting experience.
Her time at Radio 5 Live contributed significantly to her professional growth and prepared her for senior editorial responsibilities within BBC News NI.
Education and Academic Background
Strong Foundations in Politics and Communication
Claire Graham’s academic background underpins her journalistic expertise. She was educated at Sullivan Upper School in Holywood, Northern Ireland, where she studied A-Level History, Politics, and French.
She later earned a degree in Politics and Communication Studies from the University of Liverpool, achieving a strong 2:1. Her studies were complemented by international academic experience at the City University of Hong Kong, where she achieved First Class Honours in Public and Social Administration.
Professional Journalism Training
To formalise her journalism credentials, Claire Graham completed the NCTJ Level 3 Diploma in Newspaper Journalism at Belfast Metropolitan College. This professional training equipped her with industry-standard skills in reporting, media law, ethics, and newsroom practice.
Event Host and Panel Moderator
Beyond traditional journalism, Claire is also recognised as an accomplished event host and panel moderator. She regularly chairs discussions, interviews public figures, and facilitates debates on political, media, and social topics.
Her ability to guide conversations with balance and insight makes her a trusted presence at public events, conferences, and panel discussions across Northern Ireland and beyond.
Professional Reputation and Public Presence
Trusted by Audiences and Colleagues
With a strong presence on social media under the handle @JournoClaire, Claire Graham maintains a professional public profile aligned with BBC standards. Her audience engagement reflects transparency, credibility, and a commitment to factual reporting rather than opinion-driven commentary.
A Career Built on Credibility
Claire Graham’s career progression demonstrates consistency, dedication, and professional integrity. From local reporting to senior editorial roles, she has remained committed to high-quality journalism that informs, explains, and serves the public interest.
Conclusion
Claire Graham stands out as a leading figure in Northern Irish and UK broadcast journalism. As a Senior Journalist and Radio Presenter at BBC News NI, a respected Claire Graham radio presenter, and the voice behind The Explanation on the BBC World Service, she represents excellence in modern public service media.
Her experience, education, and editorial authority place her among the most trusted journalists working in Northern Ireland today. Whether reporting breaking news, presenting radio programmes, or moderating public discussions, Claire Graham BBC NI continues to shape informed journalism with professionalism and clarity.
FAQs
1. Who is Claire Graham at BBC News NI?
Claire Graham is a Senior Journalist and Radio Presenter at BBC News Northern Ireland, working across TV, radio, and digital platforms, with a strong focus on public interest journalism.
2. Is Claire Graham a radio presenter?
Yes. Claire Graham is a radio presenter heard on BBC Radio Ulster, BBC Radio Foyle, and as the presenter of The Explanation on the BBC World Service.
3. What else does Claire Graham do besides journalism?
In addition to reporting, Claire Graham is an experienced event host and panel moderator, leading discussions on politics, media, and social issues across the UK.
