I’m Andy Downton, a media consultant specialising in crisis communications, media training and strategic communications for organisations operating in high-pressure environments.
My background spans broadcast journalism and senior NHS communications leadership, where I led media teams and supported organisations through complex and high-profile situations. This experience shapes how I work today, focused on clarity, credibility and practical delivery.
I don’t approach communications as theory. My focus is on what works in practice, helping organisations and leaders communicate clearly, confidently and effectively when it matters most.
I work alongside organisations in a way that is practical, collaborative and focused on outcomes. That might involve preparing leaders for media scrutiny, strengthening communications capability within teams, or supporting organisations through challenging and high-profile situations.
The name Never Off Record reflects a simple principle - in high-pressure environments, everything you say matters. My role is to help organisations and leaders be ready for that.
Alongside my consultancy work, I also create travel content under Andy Downton Travel, sharing honest, experience-led reviews of flights, airports and destinations from the North West of England.
If you’d like to discuss how I can support your organisation, I’m always happy to have an initial conversation.