The Society of Authors now has 55 local groups, stretching across the UK and Europe. With more groups on the way this year, it’s only getting easier to get to know other authors in your area.
“We’re a small group, spread out from the north isle of Shetland, through Orkney and down the west coast via Skye and Lewis to Islay. Writing so far from other professional writers can be a lonely business, and we’ve all appreciated the companionship and advice we’ve enjoyed.”
Marsali Taylor, Scottish Islands Group
What happens at a local group?
Our local groups are run by members for members. They are a chance to connect with each other through social meet-ups, topic-led talks, workshops and more. Come along to share your knowledge and advice with fellow authors and support one another.
Local groups meet up regularly every month, both online and in person. Now is a great time to get involved in a group near you!
Some highlights from 2025 include:
- ‘Pitch Me Perfect!’, a series of two meetings on pitching your work with the Brighton and Hove Group including a member-led workshop and a session with presentation skills coach Sasha Damjanovski.
- A Q&A on all things agenting with literary agents Lindsey Fraser and Lina Langlee and the Edinburgh Group.
- ‘Nature, Observation and Creativity’, walking in nature with the North East Group.
- A session on getting into literary festivals in Wales with Sophie Buchaillard and the Swansea Group.
- A myriad of socials, picnics, coffees and get-togethers from Italy to Orkney!
“Being an organiser/member of a local group has really supported my author journey. Our growing diverse community is friendly and encouraging; no two meet-ups are the same and I certainly always leave the meetings feeling inspired thanks to the conversations, expertise and insight shared.”
Sharon Hinds-Davis, West Midlands Group
Coming up this month
Take a look at our full local groups events listings
New local groups
In 2025 we welcomed seven new groups: Sheffield, Medway and East Kent, East London, Brighton and Hove, South Buckinghamshire, Chester, and the Cambridge Translators.
This year has also seen the welcome return of the Shropshire Group.
Find your nearest local group here.
More than half of our members now have a local group in their area, and that figure is still growing.
“I’ve been leading Writers of Essex for over a decade now and the community aspect of the group is as strong now as it ever was, if not stronger. The SoA have been wonderful in supporting us, especially if there’s ever been an issue to solve, they’re always on hand to help.”
Sarah Banham, Writers of Essex
Your local group needs you!
We are looking for new group organisers for the following groups:
- Bristol
- Dunfermline & West Fife
- Eastbourne, Seaford and Lewes
- East Riding of Yorkshire
- Ireland
- Sheffield
We would also love to set up a group in Cardiff.
If you would like to help run one of these groups, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Group organisers receive help and support from the Society of Authors, and it doesn’t have to be a heavy workload. You and your group can decide how often and how you’d like to meet, and how much planning you’d like to do for it.
Can’t see a group in your area?
If there isn’t a group in your area, we can help you set one up. From gauging interest from local members to putting you in touch with other group organisers, we’re here to support you.
For more information or to tell us you’d like to set up a group, email localgroups@societyofauthors.org and we’ll arrange a time to talk through ideas for your new group and answer your questions.
“Becoming a new local group organiser for the Society of Authors this year has thrown me into a community of supportive and like-minded writers. Our group meetings offer a wonderful opportunity for writers to collaborate, share their expertise and become cheerleaders for each other. In a few months, I’ve learnt so much from my fellow members and organisers.
Lucy Andrew, West Midlands Group
