The foundation stone of the UK press self-regulatory system, the Code first came into force in 1991 and has continued to set out the standards which newspapers, magazines and news websites commit to uphold. In its 30-year history, 30 changes have been made to the Code to reflect changes in society and respond to major events.

Following open consultation in 2020, the Editors' Code was revised to specify the protection offered to individuals with mental health issues. Mental health has been added to the specific protected categories of Clause 2 (Privacy).