Call-out for applications: Platforming Under-represented Writers Funding Scheme
Platforming Under-represented Writers is a pilot funding scheme offering grants of between £50-£1000 for a professional development opportunity within literature. The scheme aims to encourage writers from under-represented backgrounds to develop their professional and artistic potential and to create opportunities to kick-start or advance their career.
Literature Wales is the national company for the development of literature. Our new Strategic Plan for 2019-2022 outlines Representation and Equality as one of Literature Wales’ main tactical priorities. We believe that every person, regardless of their background, should feel included and free to navigate, contribute and take ownership of the literature scene in Wales.
Writers can apply by submitting ideas to support a professional development opportunity of their choice. These could include: attending a conference or event; shadowing an established writer for training purposes; development costs for a new way of working; or delivering a series of community-based workshops.
Applications are welcomed from Wales-based writers working across all literary forms, from poetry and prose, to spoken word, rap, and graphic novels.
Lleucu Siencyn, Chief Executive of Literature Wales said:
”Literature is deeply rooted in the notion of freedom of expression. However, true freedom requires equality of opportunity and fair representation. Working with partners, we will do more to foster representative diversity within the literature sector. Wales’ writers should comprise a range of ages, socio-economic backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, regions and languages. This isn’t about excluding anyone. It is about creating equal and fair access to artistic innovation and professional development.”
Literature Wales is part of the Weston Jerwood Creative Bursaries programme, which supports arts organisations to expand their approach to diverse recruitment and talent development. We are committed to welcoming candidates from a wide range of backgrounds, which includes assessing applications on the strength of potential.
For more information, including eligibility criteria and full details of how to apply, download the call-out brief below.
If you have any questions, or would like to discuss your application before submitting, please contact Literature Wales, on:
post@literaturewales.org / 029 2047 2266