How to Get Published: Writing groups in the North

The start of a new year always ushers in a series of well-trodden clichés about getting that long-desired six pack, ending the cycle of awkward dates, or finally becoming the green smoothie-drinking, yoga mat-carrying superfood fan that you’re destined to be. For writers, the beginning of 2017 offers the chance to finally finish that dusty novel, receive feedback on a manuscript or begin the process of trying to get a literary agent.

The publishing market is a daunting place for those with little experience of the maze of agents, presses, submissions and rejection letters, especially in a climate where the space for new voices is incredibly narrow, with presses focusing on big names to bring in revenue.

To make navigating this daunting experience a tad easier, we’ve compiled some platforms across the North that are helping to foster a writerly community and assisting writers in publishing and editing their work.

Commonword

Based in Manchester, Commonword provide workshops and events designed to improve writers’ confidence and experience. If you want to hear from some of the most renowned publishers and experts in the field, or listen to some skilful spoken-worders, head to one of their events. Commonword also have a strand of programmes called Cultureword, which is a hub of Black creative writing, helping to promote African Caribbean and Asian writing in the North. 

Orton

Orton is the new kid on the block, offering a digital platform to writers. The site allows other writers to annotate work, suggest editors and publish work through Orton and their partners. The project was founded by Beth Cleavy, a writer disheartened by the tangles of the writing industry, seeking to give writers some control, agency and a community of their own.

New Writing North

The New Writing North organisation has been around for 20 years and their work ranges from producing Durham Book Festival to setting up reading groups and hosting the Northern Writers’ Awards, helping to publicise new writing. In the past they’ve worked with writers like Portico-prize winner Benjamin Myers and Carolyn Jess-Cooke. They can help you adapt your writing to different mediums and audiences, write a blurb and craft an author biography.

Leeds Writers Circle

Literary advice from Leeds Writers Circle comes in the form of fellow wordsmiths, who are happy to look at any writing, whether it’s in the beginning or latter stages. So, if you have a bit of dialogue that you think could become a short story, why not check out one of their get-togethers? As well as giving constructive feedback, the group also offers the chance to meet fellow scribblers who think a little too much about stanzas and character too.

The Writing Squad

A programme for young writers between the age of 16 and 21 who are living, working or studying in the North of England, The Writing Squad offers one-day workshops led by tutors in cities like Sheffield and Newcastle to nurture flourishing writers at the beginning of their careers. Keep an eye on their website to see what they’re up to this year.

The Poised Pen

Liverpool writing group The Poised Pen meet regularly at Hardman Street’s Fly In The Loaf. The group’s founding members met on a creative writing course and have continued meeting since 2009. They occasionally run poetry and flash fiction competitions too, which are a good chance to combine a round of drinks with some snappy poetry. Find them on Twitter at @ThePoisedPen.