Published Wednesday, 18 January 2012
Support After Murder and Manslaughter (SAMM NI) wants a locally-based complaints procedure to be set up for relatives suddenly thrust into media spotlight.
They are also calling for tougher regulations on the reporting of sensitive cases.
Pam Surphlis from the charity, whose sister and father were murdered in 1992, said she wanted journalists to "show more humanity" in their dealings with victims.
She said: "The people I represent never wanted to be in the media, but were thrust there because a loved one has been killed.
"They are in shock, some are deeply traumatised, none has experience of dealing with the press.
"All we are asking is for some sensitivity, a recognition that journalists can add to the pain and suffering of victims if they go about their business in the wrong way."
Other recommendations include refrain from intrusion at funerals, honesty in pursuit of interviews and ensuring distressing pictures are not published.
The call forms the basis of SAMM NI's submission to the ongoing Leveson Inquiry into the culture, practices and ethics of the media, and is based on the findings of research commissioned from the University of Ulster.
The proposals will be put forward at a launch in Belfast on Wednesday morning.