SoA Listening Session | Authors North Conference

This year, we’re hosting a series of in-person and online Listening Sessions to understand the biggest issues affecting our members. As we journey through our current five-year strategy period, 2025-2030, we want to ensure that we continue to listen to members’ needs.

The format for our Member Listening Sessions will involve a small group meeting for members to share the biggest issues affecting them as an author. These meetings will be structured to foster open communication and understanding among members on topics relevant to the business of authorship.

Please note that this session will be taking place during the Authors North Conference and you will need to have a ticket for entry to attend.

Tickets can be purchased via our website here: https://societyofauthors.org/event/authors-north-conference-2026-ai-and-the-creative-workforce/

Programme

• 10am – Listening session starts
• Discussion lead by SoA Chief Executive Anna Ganley, SoA Head of Events & Engagement, Sophia A Jackson and Head of Membership, Emma Boniwell (45 mins)
• 10.45am – session ends

Upcoming dates

Members are invited to book a place to share their experiences at one of the sessions below:

Online:

• World Listening Day | Saturday 18 July, 14.30-16.00
• Online Listening Session | Monday 19 October, 18.00-19.30

In Person:

• Belfast Book Festival | Thursday 4 June, 14.30-16.00
• In person Listening Session | Wednesday 7 October, 11.00-12.30

Accessibility

Venue Access:

• Wheelchair Access: All public areas are wheelchair accessible via lifts and ramps.
• Accessible Toilets: There are accessible toilets throughout the building, including in the Work Station areas.
• Quiet Spaces: If you need a moment of calm during your visit, the staff at WorkStation can direct you to a quieter area.
• Blue Badge Parking: Limited on-street Blue Badge parking is available on Paternoster Row and Brown Street, just outside the building. Additional accessible parking is available nearby at Q-Park Charles Street.
• All assistance dogs and service animals are welcome in Workstation’s public spaces, including the cinema, café bar, and meeting areas. If your animal needs anything specific during your visit, such as water or space to rest, please let a member of staff know.
• Further accessibility information can be found via Workstation’s website: https://workstation.org.uk/accessibility-policy

Additional:

• BSL interpretation: If you require BSL interpretation to take part in this event, please email events@societyofauthors.org.
• Other access requirements: Please email events@societyofauthors.org with any other accessibility needs.

Feeling unwell?

We recommend the following:

• Staying home if you’re feeling unwell or have flu-like symptoms
• Washing your hands when coming in from the outdoors and / or before touching your face
• Applying alcohol hand sanitiser (we will have these on site)
• We advise attendees to wear a face mask if they feel comfortable doing so

Booking

Book your place for this event via the registration form below.

Please note that this will be taking place during the Authors North Conference and you will need to have a ticket for entry to attend.

Tickets can be purchased via our website here: https://societyofauthors.org/event/authors-north-conference-2026-ai-and-the-creative-workforce/