BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//The Society of Authors - ECPv6.18.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://societyofauthors.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for The Society of Authors REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/London BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20250330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20251026T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20260329T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20261025T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20270328T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20271031T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/Amsterdam BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20250330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20251026T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20260329T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20261025T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:CEST DTSTART:20270328T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:CET DTSTART:20271031T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260904T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260904T140000 DTSTAMP:20260820T102624Z CREATED:20260820T092148Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T102624Z UID:10002257-1788519600-1788530400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Monmouth Group catch-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Monmouth group on Friday 4 September from 11am for a catch-up and discussion. \nFollowing our August picnic\, it’s back to our usual venues and a slightly more formal meeting. On the agenda this time: \n\nProgramme for the rest of 2026 and early 2027\nNews e.g. Muse (Bonnie Hawkins’ latest venture)\, AI\, bookfairs\, anything you would like to bring to the discussion\nSoA issues\n\nWe will first be meeting from 11am for a coffee and catch up at Creates Bistro\, 7 Church Street\, Monmouth NP25 3BX before having the 12pm meeting at Monmouth Library and Community Hub\, Whitecross Street\, NP25 3BY.  \nBring your own lunch. There are tea and coffee making facilities at the Library. \nPlease register and come along. We’d really like to see you. \nIf you haven’t been before\, both venues are close together in the centre of Monmouth not far from the Glendower St carpark. Come and join us for a chat. \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/monmouth-group-catch-up-040926/ LOCATION:Monmouth Library\, Monmouth Library\, Whitecross Street\, Monmouth\, NP25 3BY\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up,Society of Authors in Wales ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Monmouth.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260905T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260905T140000 DTSTAMP:20260806T150619Z CREATED:20260708T115134Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260806T150619Z UID:10002239-1788609600-1788616800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Writers of Essex: Writing for Creativity\, Wellbeing and Healing with Michelle Heighway DESCRIPTION:Join the Writers of Essex on Saturday 5 September from 12pm for our next online meeting\, ‘Poetry as Personal Practice: Writing for Creativity\, Wellbeing and Healing with Michelle Heighway’. \n \nPoetry has the power to help us slow down\, reconnect with ourselves and discover our authentic voice. In this interactive session\, poet and filmmaker Michelle Heighway shares her personal creative practice and how poetry became a powerful tool for navigating grief\, finding meaning and improving wellbeing. \nThrough breathing exercises\, mindfulness\, journaling\, nature\, photography and simple writing prompts\, Michelle explores how creativity can help us enter a positive flow state\, overcome creative blocks and transform everyday moments into poetry. Alongside readings from her collection Step Into My Flow\, she shares practical techniques to inspire your own writing\, ending with a gentle poetry exercise and the opportunity to reflect and share. \nWhether you’re an experienced writer or just beginning\, this session will leave you feeling inspired\, connected and ready to write. \nAll members welcome! \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/writers-of-essex-writing-for-creativity-wellbeing-and-healing-with-michelle-heighway-050926/ CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Essex.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org LOCATION:https://societyofauthors.org/event/writers-of-essex-writing-for-creativity-wellbeing-and-healing-with-michelle-heighway-050926/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260907T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260907T120000 DTSTAMP:20260723T150740Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T150740Z UID:10002190-1788778800-1788782400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Writers of Colour Network online meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Writers of Colour Network on Monday 7 September from 11am for a member-led networking session\, hosted by members Jenny Mitchell and Durre Shahwar and moderated by Sophia Jackson\, Head of Events and Engagement\, and Rose Hensher\, Grants and Prizes Administrator. Come along and get to know your fellow authors! \nMeeting structure \n\n30 minutes – Whole group discussion: What do we want from this group? \n30 minutes – Breakout rooms to get to know other members in smaller groups.\n\nWe look forward to seeing you there! \nWriters of Colour Network\nThe Writers of Colour Network is an informal\, member-led network established in 2026 for authors\, illustrators and translators of colour to meet\, chat and share their experiences through online networking meetings. To join the mailing list and be kept up to date on the network’s events and activities\, please email membership@societyofauthors.org. \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/writers-of-colour-network-online-meet-up-070926/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Underrepresented Writers Networks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Writers-of-Colour.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260908T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260908T140000 DTSTAMP:20260811T112637Z CREATED:20260716T090144Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260811T112637Z UID:10002245-1788868800-1788876000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Surrey Group: Booksellers and Bookselling in the 21st Century and Beyond DESCRIPTION:Join the Surrey Group on Tuesday 8 September from 12pm for their next meeting to hear from Max Gwynne\, Area Commercial Expert at Waterstones\, on the importance of booksellers and bookselling in the 21st century and beyond. \nThe talk will cover: \n\nThe current state of global reading and trends\, the situation of libraries and wider cultural funding cuts\, the rise of online alternatives to bookshops/libraries and the dangers. Bookshops/Booksellers roles in combating these issues.\nHow effective bookshops work. The critical role of great\, proactive service and a sharing of passions; seeking to further ingrain the love of books into our public culture and future generations.\nIntelligent recommendations and tailoring our suggestions wisely. Waterstones’ efforts to lead the way in carving out new bestselling titles and authors (BOTM\, Debut Prize\, BOTY etc).\nCurrent drive to improve bookseller wider knowledge\, especially in Non-Fiction – my role as a Commercial Expert in driving that.\nRelationship between booksellers and authors\, authors and publishers\nRise in book sales in general\, bookseller’s passions only growing\, rise of social media trends and ‘BookTok’ and bookselling in the future\n\nWe will meet at The Seahorse\, 52-54 The Street\, Shalford\, Guildford\, GU4 8BU. All writerly and bookish guests welcome. \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. \nPlease email member-volunteer Howard Matthews with any questions. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/surrey-group-booksellers-and-bookselling-in-the-21st-century-and-beyond-080926/ LOCATION:The Seahorse\, 52-54 The Street\, Guildford\, GU4 8BU CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Surrey.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Howard Matthews":MAILTO:howardsmatthews@gmail.com GEO:51.2183052;-0.5690283 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Seahorse 52-54 The Street Guildford GU4 8BU;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=52-54 The Street:geo:-0.5690283,51.2183052 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260908T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260908T203000 DTSTAMP:20260717T140320Z CREATED:20260119T113306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T140320Z UID:10001910-1788895800-1788899400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Hertfordshire Writers online meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join Hertfordshire Writers on Tuesday 8 September from 7.30pm for our next online social meet-up. \nIn each meeting\, we focus on a particular theme\, inviting an open discussion on literary-focused topics. So come along for a catch up and some writerly chat! \nAs always\, all members welcome! \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/hertfordshire-writers-online-meet-up-080926/ CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Hertfordshire.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org LOCATION:https://societyofauthors.org/event/hertfordshire-writers-online-meet-up-080926/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T120000 DTSTAMP:20260717T140649Z CREATED:20260122T125709Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T140649Z UID:10001940-1788948000-1788955200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Warwickshire Group: Creative Coffee Morning DESCRIPTION:Join the Warwickshire Group on Wednesday 9 September from 10am for an informal session to come together and work on our various projects – bring your laptop or notebook! We’ll spend 5-10 minutes at the start of the meeting to set our individual goals\, then everyone will concentrate on their work before reconvening at 11.50 to share what we have achieved.  \nWe will meet at Café Desa\, 3 Regent Grove\, Leamington Spa\, CV32 4NY. Free to attend\, but everyone is asked to buy a drink or two (and a snack if you fancy) from the cafe as they kindly allow us to use their space for free. On-street parking in Regent Grove or Hamilton Terrace\, bike racks are 50 yards away by the town hall or a bus stop is just round the corner on The Parade. \nAll members welcome from the surrounding area! \nTo join us\, click the Going button below and enter your details in the RSVP form so we have an idea of how many people are planning to attend. Please contact us with any questions. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/warwickshire-group-creative-coffee-morning-090926/ LOCATION:Café Desa\, Regent Grove 3\, Royal Leamington Spa\, Warwickshire\, CV32 5AA\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Warwickshire.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Ignaty Dyakov":MAILTO:hello@lifesensei.uk GEO:52.2891944;-1.5345424 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Café Desa Regent Grove 3 Royal Leamington Spa Warwickshire CV32 5AA United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Regent Grove 3:geo:-1.5345424,52.2891944 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T193000 DTSTAMP:20260827T151802Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260827T151802Z UID:10002040-1788978600-1788982200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:LGBTQ+ Writers Network online meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the LGBTQ+ Writers Network on Wednesday 9 September from 6.30pm for a member-led networking session. Come along and get to know your fellow authors! \nMeeting structure \n\n5-10 minutes – Welcome to the session and lightning introduction round.\n20 minutes – Whole group discussion on the theme\, ‘Writing identities different from your own’.\n20 minutes – Genre-specific breakout rooms to chat with members in smaller groups about your experiences.\n5-10 minutes – ‘Writers Wins’\, sharing achievements from our writing lives.\n\nWe look forward to seeing you there! \nLGBTQ+ Writers Network\nThe LGBTQ+ Writers Network is an informal\, member-led network established in 2026 for LGBTQ+ authors\, illustrators and translators to meet\, chat and share their experiences through online networking meetings. To join the mailing list and be kept up to date on the network’s events and activities\, please email membership@societyofauthors.org. \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/lgbtq-network-online-meet-up-090926/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Underrepresented Writers Networks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/LGBTQ-Network.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T210000 DTSTAMP:20260717T140319Z CREATED:20260206T112916Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T140319Z UID:10001982-1788980400-1788987600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Edinburgh Group meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Edinburgh group on Wednesday 9 September from 7pm for a writerly catch up. \nMeet fellow authors in your area\, share your latest projects and what you’re currently working on. Don’t worry if you haven’t been to a meet-up before – come along and say hello!  \nWe will meet at Argonaut Books\, 15-17 Leith Walk\, Edinburgh\, EH6 8LN. \nAll members welcome. \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/edinburgh-group-meet-up-090926/ LOCATION:Argonaut Books\, 15-17 Leith Walk\, Edinburgh\, EH6 8LN CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Edinburgh.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:55.9702964;-3.1716647 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Argonaut Books 15-17 Leith Walk Edinburgh EH6 8LN;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=15-17 Leith Walk:geo:-3.1716647,55.9702964 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260910T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260910T160000 DTSTAMP:20260902T092705Z CREATED:20260901T095604Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260902T092705Z UID:10002265-1789048800-1789056000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Brighton and Hove Group: Talk with Stephen Clarke DESCRIPTION:Join the Brighton and Hove Group on Thursday 10 September from 2pm for a talk with bestselling author Stephen Clarke\, whose extraordinary publishing journey began in 2004 with just 200 self-published copies of a novel\, sold around Paris from a shopping trolley! \nStephen Clarke is an entertaining speaker with invaluable experience of the international publishing market. He has written 31 books\, including the hugely successful A Year in the Merde series and UK number-one bestseller 1000 Years of Annoying the French\, and has experienced the publishing world from both sides. \nIn 2004\, after getting an agent but struggling to find a publisher\, Stephen took matters into his own hands and self-published A Year in the Merde. He sold copies himself in Paris and online\, eventually attracting the attention of literary agent Susanna Lea\, who held an auction between major publishers. The book went on to become a million-selling international hit\, with publishing rights sold around the world. Its sequel\, Merde Actually\, reached number one in the Bookseller’s chart. As a result\, Stephen was invited to do book tours of Europe\, the USA and Australia and New Zealand. \nSince then\, Stephen has gone on to write fiction\, history and humorous non-fiction\, drawing on his experiences of Britain\, France and life as a writer working in an international market. He has now gone back to self-publishing some of his books\, particularly if he thinks there is a niche market to be targeted (eg his latest history book\, Charles Frederick Worth\, the Englishman Who Invented Parisian Haute Couture). His journey from self-publishing an unknown novel to becoming an internationally published and bestselling author makes this a particularly fascinating opportunity for anyone interested in writing and publishing. \nCome along to hear Stephen talk about his career\, his experiences of publishing\, and what he has learned along the way. We’re sure it will be both entertaining and informative. \nWe’ll meet upstairs in The Regency Town House\, 13 Brunswick Square\, Hove\, BN3 1EH. Tea\, coffee and biscuits\, including gluten- and dairy-free options\, will be provided by group organiser Rebecca for a donation of £3 via SumUp. \nThe Regency Town House is a charity and lets us meet here very cheaply\, so please make a donation as you leave if you’re in a position to do so. \nAll members welcome! \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. \nTo ensure that volunteers provide enough chairs from the storeroom for everyone\, please email member-volunteer group organiser RebeccaERennie@gmail.com with any last-minute RSVPs or cancellations. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/brighton-and-hove-group-talk-with-stephen-clarke-100926/ LOCATION:The Regency Town House\, 13 Brunswick Square\, Hove\, BN3 1EH CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Brighton-Hove.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:50.8242824;-0.1583492 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Regency Town House 13 Brunswick Square Hove BN3 1EH;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=13 Brunswick Square:geo:-0.1583492,50.8242824 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260910T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260910T203000 DTSTAMP:20260717T133732Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T133732Z UID:10001966-1789066800-1789072200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Self-Publishers Network: When to outsource and when to learn new skills DESCRIPTION:*Please note the date of this meeting has changed from the 3 September to the 10 September.* \nJoin the Self-Publishers Network on Thursday 10 September from 7pm for a member-led discussion on outsourcing and learning new skills. We will consider questions such as: How do we learn the skills needed to self-publish? How do we decide what to do ourselves\, and what to outsource?  \nWe will go into small groups using breakout rooms on Zoom for you to meet fellow members\, chat and share advice. We’ll run two rounds of rooms for around 20 minutes each so you can meet a variety of authors\, then at the end we will feed back to the main group. \nMeeting structure \n\n10 minutes – Welcome and housekeeping\, answering any initial questions\n20 minutes – Breakout room to chat with members in smaller groups\n10 minutes – Catch up and remix the rooms\n20 minutes – Breakout room to chat with members in smaller groups\n30 minutes – Feed back to the main group\, closing discussion\n\nWe look forward to seeing you there! \nAbout the Self-Publishers Network\nThe Self-Publishers Network is a member-led network connecting self-published authors to share experiences\, recommendations and advice. You can find out more about the network\, our upcoming meeting and SoA resources for self-publishers here. \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/self-publishers-network-when-to-outsource-and-when-to-learn-new-skills-030926/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Self-Publishers Network ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Self-Publishers-Network.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260911T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260911T123000 DTSTAMP:20260805T082855Z CREATED:20260122T131559Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T082855Z UID:10002236-1789124400-1789129800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Bristol Group social meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Bristol Group for an in person meet-up on Friday 11 September from 11am. We will meet in the café/bar area of Watershed\, 1 Canons Road\, Harbourside\, Bristol BS1 5TX. \nThis is a social meeting where we will catch up over a drink and have a chat about all things writerly. This meeting will be hosted by Elizabeth Haylett Clark\, Senior Contracts Advisor at the SoA\, and we will also be looking for a new member-volunteer organiser for the group. \nAll members welcome! \nTo join us\, click the Going button below and enter your details in the RSVP form so we have an idea of how many people are planning to attend. Please contact us with any questions. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/bristol-group-social-meet-up-110926/ LOCATION:Watershed Cafe\, 1 Canon's Road\, Bristol\, BS1 5TX\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Bristol.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:51.4513939;-2.5982539 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Watershed Cafe 1 Canon's Road Bristol BS1 5TX United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1 Canon's Road:geo:-2.5982539,51.4513939 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260911T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260911T160000 DTSTAMP:20260811T094054Z CREATED:20260526T102058Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260811T094054Z UID:10002242-1789135200-1789142400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:West Midlands Group meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the West Midlands Group on Friday 11 September at 2pm for a catch-up at our next group meeting. This will just be a general chat to check in with everybody’s life and writing updates\, and will be hosted by group member Sally as Lucy and Sharon are unavailable. \nWe will meet at The Exchange\, 3 Centenary Square\, Birmingham B1 2DR\, opposite the Library of Birmingham. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase at the venue. \nDon’t worry if you haven’t been to a meet-up before – all members welcome! \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/west-midlands-group-meet-up-110926/ LOCATION:The Exchange\, 3 Centenary Square\, Birmingham\, B1 2DR CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/West-Midlands.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:52.4785257;-1.9077552 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Exchange 3 Centenary Square Birmingham B1 2DR;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=3 Centenary Square:geo:-1.9077552,52.4785257 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260911T160000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260911T180000 DTSTAMP:20260818T115714Z CREATED:20260818T115714Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T115714Z UID:10002251-1789142400-1789149600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:South East London Group catch up DESCRIPTION:Join the South East London Group on Friday 11 September from 4pm for our next in person meet up.  \nMeet fellow authors in your area\, share your latest projects and what you’re currently working on. Don’t worry if you haven’t been to a meet-up before – come along and say hello!  \nWe will meet at Bell House\, 27 College Road\, Dulwich\, London SE21 7BG. Ring on the bell and we’ll let you in. Refreshments will be DIY\, so please bring your own drinks and snacks. \nAll members welcome! \nLocal Groups meetings are run by our wonderful volunteers\, who kindly give their time to support their local writing community. As such\, please be mindful of limitations on their time and capacity for running the group. \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/south-east-london-group-catch-up-110926/ LOCATION:Bell House\, 27 College Road\, Dulwich\, London\, SE21 7BG CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/South-East-London.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:51.4445456;-0.0847204 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Bell House 27 College Road Dulwich London SE21 7BG;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=27 College Road\, Dulwich:geo:-0.0847204,51.4445456 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260912T104000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260912T130000 DTSTAMP:20260811T100534Z CREATED:20260601T094715Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260811T100534Z UID:10002243-1789209600-1789218000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:North East Group: Being Your Own Publisher DESCRIPTION:Join the North East Group for our next meeting on Saturday 12 September\, doors open from 10.40am for an 11am start. The topic for the meeting is ‘Being your own publisher’\, with guest Caroline Corfield who writes science fiction novels and short stories\, along with non-fiction. \nCaroline Corfield   \nCaroline Corfield was born in Glasgow\, studied Physics\, and has had a career as a geophysicist working around the world on board seismic survey vessels belonging to an oilfield services company.  Recently\, Caroline graduated with a Distinction in her MA in Creative Writing from Hull University.  She continued to write for pleasure during her studies and her career as a geophysicist. Her science fiction short stories have been published in the British Science Fiction Association’s Fission #4 and #5 anthologies. She has also self-published four books set in a near-future inhabited Antarctica\, which were great fun to write and necessitated her becoming her own publisher. Caroline now lives on the edge of rural Northumberland. \nWe will meet at the Lit and Phil Library\, 23 Westgate Road (next to Bolbec Hall)\, Newcastle upon Tyne\, NE1 1SE. It’s less than one minute from Newcastle Central Rail Station and the Central Station Metro. Turn right and walk for less than a minute\, and the Lit and Phil is on the corner of Westgate Road\, Orchard Street/Neville Street\, next to Neville Hall. \nWe look forward to seeing members at the event! Just a reminder to bring along spare change for a coffee or tea/biscuits at £2.00. \nLocal group meet-ups are free to attend. To join us\, click the Going button below and enter your details in the RSVP form so we know how many people to expect. If you run into any trouble registering or would like to cancel a registration\, please email localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/north-east-group-being-your-own-publisher-120926/ LOCATION:The Lit and Phil Library\, 23 Westgate Road\, Newcastle Upon Tyne\, NE1 1SE\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-East.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:54.9692882;-1.6139861 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Lit and Phil Library 23 Westgate Road Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 1SE United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=23 Westgate Road:geo:-1.6139861,54.9692882 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260912T133000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260912T153000 DTSTAMP:20260904T112851Z CREATED:20260720T101323Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260904T112851Z UID:10002210-1789219800-1789227000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:CHANGE OF ROOM AND TIME: East Midlands Group Nottingham hybrid meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the East Midlands Group in-person and online on Saturday 12 September from 13:30 for an informal chat at our next social. This is a chance to meet fellow authors in your area\, share your latest projects\, and discuss what you’re currently working on. \n\nWe will also be catching up post book festival. \n\nWe will meet in person at The Boardroom\, The Broadway\, 14-18 Broad Street\, Nottingham NG1 3AL. We will also meet online\, on Zoom. Please RSVP for the link. \nDon’t worry if you haven’t been to a meet-up before – come along and say hello! \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/east-midlands-group-nottingham-hybrid-meet-up-120926/ LOCATION:The Broadway Cinema CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/East-Midlands.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260915T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260915T113000 DTSTAMP:20260728T090007Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260728T090007Z UID:10001811-1789466400-1789471800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Professional Development - Book marketing on TikTok - the next steps DESCRIPTION:This more advanced session focuses on taking things to the next level and growing on TikTok. If you’re already set up on the platform but want to use it more strategically\, you’re in the right place. Perhaps you’re struggling to connect with readers effectively\, or perhaps you’re looking for some fresh\, practical ideas for content that will have a real impact. \nJoin Communications specialist and author\, Anna Caig\, as she looks at how to integrate TikTok content creation into your routine and build a sustainable ongoing presence on the channel. \nThis session is for writers who are already set up on TikTok but would like to grow and give their book marketing there a boost\, as well as writers who’d like an injection of fresh ideas for using the platform strategically.  \n  \nOnline Professional Development events – free for SoA Members \nNot a member? Sign up here. \n  \nWhat will this session cover?\nWe’ll cover: \n\n\n\nTikTok formats – do you know your stitches from your duets? How to use different formats to best effect \nA practical content planning template – ideas\, inspiration and options for authors to take away and have a go at\nContent creation that fits into your routine – how to build a sustainable presence\nHow to work with existing BookTokers to promote your work.\n\n\n\n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Lilly Brend-Fish – Events & Engagement Manager\, SoA (3 mins)\nPresentation by Anna Caig (60 mins)\nComfort Break (5 mins)\nQ&A with audience (20 mins) \nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email Lilly Brend-Fish on LBrendfish@societyofauthors.org with ‘TikTok – the next steps’ in the subject header. We will prioritise questions sent in advance and answer as many as we can from the audience on the day. \n  \nThe Line-up\nAnna Caig\nAnna Caig trains creative people to do their own marketing\, running courses and working one-to-one with many writers. She’s worked in communications for over 20 years. Anna’s novel The Wise Witch of Orkney will be published in February 2026. She is obsessed with the hidden voices of women in history.  \nWebsite: annacaig.co.uk |Instagram: @AnnaCaig | TikTok: @AnnaCaig \n  \nAccessibility\n\nAttendees will have the option to turn on the live transcript\, to watch with subtitles\nIf you require BSL interpretation for this event\, please email events@societyofauthors.org\n\n  \nBooking\nSoA Members: Please use the ‘Register – SoA Members’ form below and provide your details\, including your membership number. If you’re unsure of your SoA ID\, please email info@societyofauthors.org. \nNon-members: Choose one of the two ticket options below\, complete the registration form\, then fill out the billing info to finalise your payment. \nFor event or registration questions\, email events@societyofauthors.org. \nSoA Members – Free \nNon-Members – £35 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Society of Authors’ Access Fund - donate now\n \n Giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreatsEvery contribution helps us ensure that these needs and costs aren’t barriers to authors wishing to access events. If you are in a position to help\, please donate via the link below. If you are an author facing access issues\, please click here to see if we can help. DONATE NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SoA Fundraising Bookshop\n \n Browse our virtual Bookshop.org store featuring books by authors and speakers taking part in our events programme. When you make a purchase using our affiliate links\, a percentage will go to the Society of Authors’ Access Fund\, giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreats. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/professional-development-book-marketing-on-tiktok-the-next-steps/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Book-marketing-on-TikTok.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260915T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260915T120000 DTSTAMP:20260723T145621Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T145621Z UID:10002189-1789470000-1789473600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Working Class Writers Network online meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Working Class Writers Network on Tuesday 15 September from 11am for a member-led networking session. Come along and get to know your fellow authors! \nMeeting structure \n\n30 minutes – Whole group discussion: What do we want from this group and the SoA? \n30 minutes – Breakout rooms to get to know other members in smaller groups.\n\nWe look forward to seeing you there! \nWorking Class Writers Network\nThe Working Class Writers Network is an informal\, member-led network established in 2026 for working class authors\, illustrators and translators to meet\, chat and share their experiences through online networking meetings. To join the mailing list and be kept up to date on the network’s events and activities\, please email membership@societyofauthors.org. \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/working-class-writers-network-online-meet-up-150926/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Underrepresented Writers Networks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Working-Class-Writers.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260916T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260916T200000 DTSTAMP:20260904T094138Z CREATED:20260904T093625Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260904T094138Z UID:10002270-1789585200-1789588800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Highlands and Moray Group online: Chat with Pauline Vickers (SoA) DESCRIPTION:Join the Highland and Moray Group online on Wednesday 16 September from 19:00 for our informal monthly meetup. \nThis month we are joined by Pauline Vickers\, our new SoA Policy and Public Affairs Manager for Scotland. Find a wee bit about her role and how it may affect our writing world in Scotland. \nAll members welcome! \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/highlands-and-moray-group-online-chat-with-pauline-vickers-soa-160926/ CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Highlands-Moray.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org LOCATION:https://societyofauthors.org/event/highlands-and-moray-group-online-chat-with-pauline-vickers-soa-160926/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260916T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260916T210000 DTSTAMP:20260819T090931Z CREATED:20260819T090554Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260819T090931Z UID:10002253-1789587000-1789592400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Warwickshire Group: Our Voices DESCRIPTION:All members welcome to join the Warwickshire Group on Wednesday 16 September 2026 from 7.30 – 9pm for ‘Our Voices’: a new event aimed at sharing ‘tasters’ of the varied work represented by the Warwickshire group. \nMembers can share a taster of their own work and will have 5 minutes to do so\, including a very brief introduction. Any form of writing is welcome. Celia Rees will chair the evening and control the timings! (For prose\, 5 minutes should allow for 500-550 words read at a steady pace.) \nDo come along\, even if you only want to listen. \nThe event will be in The Okens Room at The Oddfellows Hall\, 22 New Street\, Leamington Spa\, Warwickshire\, CV31 1HP. \nPlease let Celia know by Monday 14 September if you’d like to be on the list. She will sort out a running order. Her email is celiarees@btopenworld.com or use the WhatsApp group. \nThere won’t be formal feedback but feel free to chat about each other’s contributions during refreshments or after the event. \nThere will be a break at ‘half-time’ for tea\, coffee and biscuits. Please have some coins to contribute towards this. \nCelia also aims to run a brief discussion at the end of the evening about future events. Come with any ideas/opinions. \nThe venue is accessible. \nThis is a free event. \nTo join us\, click the Going button below and enter your details in the RSVP form so we have an idea of how many people are planning to attend. Please contact us with any questions. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/warwickshire-group-our-voices-160926/ LOCATION:The Oddfellows Hall\, 22 New Street\, Leamington Spa\, Warwickshire\, CV31 1HP CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Warwickshire.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Fran Hill":MAILTO:franhill123@hotmail.com GEO:52.2860207;-1.5285573 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Oddfellows Hall 22 New Street Leamington Spa Warwickshire CV31 1HP;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=22 New Street\, Leamington Spa:geo:-1.5285573,52.2860207 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T130000 DTSTAMP:20260908T080941Z CREATED:20260908T080941Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260908T080941Z UID:10002271-1789642800-1789650000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Shropshire Group meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Shropshire Group on Thursday 17 September at 11am for the group’s next in person meeting. Come along and get to know your fellow authors. \nThis meeting will be a general social meeting covering any topics people want to discuss and a chance to catch up with each other after the summer. \nWe will meet at the Café on the Severn\, Gateway Education and Arts Centre\, Chester Street\, Shrewsbury\, SY1 1NB. You can find out more about the accessibility of the building here. \nAll members welcome from the surrounding area! \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/shropshire-group-meet-up-170926/ LOCATION:Café on the Severn\, The Gateway Centre\, Chester Street CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Shropshire.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T140000 DTSTAMP:20260910T082438Z CREATED:20260819T095123Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T082438Z UID:10002254-1789646400-1789653600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Chester Group meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Chester Group on Thursday 17 September from 12:00 to meet and socialise with fellow writers. \nThis session is for us to get to know one another and our local SoA community\, make connections and exchange ideas. Since I’ve only just taken over as the co-ordinator of the group\, I’d be really keen to know what members would like from the group and the sessions\, so please come with your ideas to share. \nWe will meet at the ground floor cafe of Storyhouse\, Hunter St\, Chester\, CH1 2AR. \nAll members welcome from the surrounding area! \nTo join us\, click the Going button below and enter your details in the RSVP form. If this event is full\, please email us to be added to the waiting list. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/chester-group-meet-up-170926/ LOCATION:Storyhouse\, Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up,Society of Authors in Wales ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Chester.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:53.1922847;-2.8940924 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Storyhouse Hunter Street Chester CH1 2AR;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Hunter Street:geo:-2.8940924,53.1922847 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T203000 DTSTAMP:20260915T130748Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T130748Z UID:10002223-1789671600-1789677000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Industry Insider – Neurodiversity\, disability justice\, and writing in Wales DESCRIPTION:This session on neurodiversity and disability will spotlight the work of Sofia Brizio\, an Italian writer\, translator and editor based in Wales. Sofia lives with cerebral palsy and writes about disability rights\, LGBTQ+ rights\, and trans-inclusive intersectional feminism. She is currently a PhD researcher in Media Diversity at Birmingham City University. \nChaired by Francesca Sobande\, a neurodivergent writer and reader in Digital Media Studies at Cardiff University\, this session will include discussion of the interlinked nature of different inequalities and their impacts on authors.  \nThis event is in conjunction with the Society of Authors Cymru \n  \nOnline Industry Insider events – free for all + donation \nAll donations made go towards the Society of Authors’ Access Fund. The fund is to help provide authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreats. If you would like to make a donation with your booking\, please do so when registering for the event below. \n  \nWhat will this session cover?\nFocusing on Sofia’s writing and research in recent years\, the event will highlight matters related to: \n\nDisability justice\nCreativity\nWriting\nSocial media\nAnd the cultural industries in Wales and beyond. \n\n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Francesca Sobande (3 mins)\nPanel discussion chaired by Francesca Sobande with Sofia Brizio (60 mins)\nComfort break (5 mins)\nQ&A with audience (20 mins) \nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Emma Boniwell – Head of Membership & Author Communities\, SoA\n\n  \nThe Line-up\nFrancesca Sobande\nFrancesca Sobande is a writer and reader in digital media studies at Cardiff University. She is author and co-author of books published by 404 Ink\, Bloomsbury\, Palgrave Macmillan\, SAGE\, and University of California Press. Her recent writing includes the free self-published zine\, Black Life in / and “Alt” Music Subcultures\, and an essay on “Echoes: Soft Space and Solidarity in the Legacy of Hardcore Punk” (Folding Rock). Francesca is currently working on a self-published comic\, Balsamic Night\, and illustrated poetry collection\, Haar. \n  \nSofia Brizio\nSofia Brizio is an Italian writer\, translator and editor based in Wales. Living with cerebral palsy\, Sofia writes about disability rights\, LGBTQ+ rights\, and trans-inclusive intersectional feminism. She is currently a PhD researcher in Media Diversity at Birmingham City University. \n  \nAbout the Society of Authors Cymru\nThe Society of Authors Cymru is a national group of the Society of Authors. Established in 2018\, we provide professional advice and support for Welsh writers at all stages of their career\, whether they write in English or Welsh. \nWe organise regular events and host socials across the year via a volunteer steering committee and local groups. Join us to meet authors across Wales\, find out what’s happening in your area and be a part of your local Society of Authors community. \nFind out more here \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email EBoniwell@societyofauthors.org with ‘Neurodiversity\, disability justice\, and writing in Wales’ in the subject header. We will prioritise questions sent in advance and answer as many as we can from the audience on the day. \n  \nAccessibility\n\nAttendees will have the option to turn on the live transcript\, to watch with subtitles\nIf you require BSL interpretation for this event\, please email events@societyofauthors.org\n\n  \nBooking\nPlease either use the form titled ‘Register – no donation’ or the option of the different ticket options with a donation amount depending on how much you would like to donate towards the Society of Authors Access Fund. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Society of Authors’ Access Fund - donate now\n \n Giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreatsEvery contribution helps us ensure that these needs and costs aren’t barriers to authors wishing to access events. If you are in a position to help\, please donate via the link below. If you are an author facing access issues\, please click here to see if we can help. DONATE NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SoA Fundraising Bookshop\n \n Browse our virtual Bookshop.org store featuring books by authors and speakers taking part in our events programme. When you make a purchase using our affiliate links\, a percentage will go to the Society of Authors’ Access Fund\, giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreats. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/industry-insider-neurodiversity-disability-justice-and-writing-in-wales/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Society of Authors in Wales ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Industry-Insider_Neurodiversity-Disability-justice-and-writing-in-Wales-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260917T210000 DTSTAMP:20260717T141359Z CREATED:20260108T130539Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T141359Z UID:10001884-1789671600-1789678800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Harrogate and North Yorkshire Group meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Harrogate and North Yorkshire Group on Thursday 17 September from 7pm for their next social meet-up! Come along for a drink and a chat about all things writerly. \nWe will meet at North Bar\, 2D Oxford Buildings\, Cheltenham Parade\, Harrogate\, HG1 1DA. We have booked the room upstairs to reduce background noise\, under the name ‘Society of Authors Harrogate’. \nAll members welcome! \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. \n  URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/harrogate-and-north-yorkshire-group-meet-up-170926/ LOCATION:North Bar\, Mount Parade\, Harrogate\, North Yorkshire\, HG1 1BX\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Harrogate-North-Yorkshire.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:53.9952602;-1.5394869 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=North Bar Mount Parade Harrogate North Yorkshire HG1 1BX United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Mount Parade:geo:-1.5394869,53.9952602 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260918T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260918T114500 DTSTAMP:20260728T090014Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260728T090014Z UID:10002193-1789729200-1789731900@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Feel Good Friday - Transforming doubt into creativity DESCRIPTION:As writers\, do we constantly juggle inspiration with self-doubt? Can this lead us to question every word we write\, even when we have a track record of being successfully published? How does this impact our output and ability to cope with the inevitable rejections all writers face? Is self-doubt a necessary part of the creative process\, and can we learn to make it a friend rather than an enemy? \nThis session led by writer\, Jenny Mitchell is for any writer who has felt their work isn’t good enough or who has moments of self-doubt\, especially after facing rejection. The workshop will be non-judgemental whilst still asking participants to challenge themselves.  \n  \nOnline Feel Good Friday events – free for SoA Members | £5 for Non-Members \nNot a member? sign up here. \n  \nWhat will this session cover? \n\nHow do we recognise self-doubt and not dismiss our work because of it?\nWhat is at the root of self-sabotage?\nAre there any events\, feedback or people that set our work off course?\nHow do we find ways to ‘disobey’ them so that we continue to write?\nIf we do all of this\, can we access more power and creativity?\n\n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Lilly Brend-Fish – Events & Engagement Manager\, SoA (3 mins)\nPresentation by Jenny Mitchell – attendees are encouraged to contribute during the session (30 mins)\nQ&A with audience (10 mins) \nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email Lbrendfish@societyofauthors.org with ‘Doubt into creativity’ in the subject header. \n  \nThe Line-up\nJenny Mitchell\nJenny Mitchell has three collections: Her Lost Language was joint winner of the Geoff Stevens Memorial Prize; Map of a Plantation won the Poetry Book Awards and is a university set text. Resurrection of a Black Man contains three prize-winning poems. She is a poetry co-editor for the Morning Star. \n  \nAccessibility\n\nAttendees will have the option to turn on the live transcript\, to watch with subtitles\nIf you require BSL interpretation for this event\, please email events@societyofauthors.org\n\n  \nBooking\nSoA Members: Please use the ‘Register – SoA Members’ form below and provide your details\, including your membership number. If you’re unsure of your SoA ID\, please email info@societyofauthors.org. \nNon-members: Choose one of the two ticket options below\, complete the registration form\, then fill out the billing info to finalise your payment. \nFor event or registration questions\, email events@societyofauthors.org. \nSoA Members – Free \nNon-Members – £5 \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Society of Authors’ Access Fund - donate now\n \n Giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreatsEvery contribution helps us ensure that these needs and costs aren’t barriers to authors wishing to access events. If you are in a position to help\, please donate via the link below. If you are an author facing access issues\, please click here to see if we can help. DONATE NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SoA Fundraising Bookshop\n \n Browse our virtual Bookshop.org store featuring books by authors and speakers taking part in our events programme. When you make a purchase using our affiliate links\, a percentage will go to the Society of Authors’ Access Fund\, giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreats. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/feel-good-friday-transforming-doubt-into-creativity/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Feel-Good-Friday_Transforming-doubt-into-creativity-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260919T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260919T104500 DTSTAMP:20260915T125607Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T125607Z UID:10002156-1789812000-1789814700@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:SoA Listening Session | Authors North Conference DESCRIPTION: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. \nThe 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. \nThis session will be taking place before our Authors North Conference. Tickets can be purchased via our website here: https://societyofauthors.org/event/authors-north-conference-2026-ai-and-the-creative-workforce/ \nThis is part of a series of listening sessions we’re hosting in person and online this year. We also have an online survey which you can complete here. \n  \nProgramme\n\n10am – Listening session starts\nThe listening session will be hosted by SoA’s Chief Executive\, Anna Ganley\, Head of Events & Engagement\, Sophia A Jackson\, and Head of Membership and Author Communities\, Emma Boniwell. (45 mins)\n10.45am – session ends\n\n  \nUpcoming dates\nMembers are invited to book a place to share their experiences at one of the sessions below: \nOnline: \n\nOnline Listening Session | Monday 19 October\, 18.00-19.30\n\nIn Person: \n\nIn person Listening Session | Wednesday 7 October\, 11.00-12.30\n\n  \nAccessibility\nVenue Access: \n\nWheelchair Access: All public areas are wheelchair accessible via lifts and ramps.\nAccessible Toilets: There are accessible toilets throughout the building\, including in the Work Station areas.\nQuiet Spaces: If you need a moment of calm during your visit\, the staff at WorkStation can direct you to a quieter area.\nBlue 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.\nAll 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.\nFurther accessibility information can be found via Workstation’s website: https://workstation.org.uk/accessibility-policy\n\nAdditional: \n\nBSL interpretation: If you require BSL interpretation to take part in this event\, please email events@societyofauthors.org.\nOther access requirements: Please email events@societyofauthors.org with any other accessibility needs.\n\n  \nFeeling unwell?\nWe recommend the following: \n\nStaying home if you’re feeling unwell or have flu-like symptoms\nWashing your hands when coming in from the outdoors and / or before touching your face\nApplying alcohol hand sanitiser (we will have these on site)\nWe advise attendees to wear a face mask if they feel comfortable doing so\n\n  \nBooking\nBook your place for this event via the registration form below. \nThis session will be taking place before our Authors North Conference. Tickets can be purchased via our website here: https://societyofauthors.org/event/authors-north-conference-2026-ai-and-the-creative-workforce/ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Society of Authors’ Access Fund - donate now\n \n Giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreatsEvery contribution helps us ensure that these needs and costs aren’t barriers to authors wishing to access events. If you are in a position to help\, please donate via the link below. If you are an author facing access issues\, please click here to see if we can help. DONATE NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SoA Fundraising Bookshop\n \n Browse our virtual Bookshop.org store featuring books by authors and speakers taking part in our events programme. When you make a purchase using our affiliate links\, a percentage will go to the Society of Authors’ Access Fund\, giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreats. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/soa-listening-session-authors-north-conference/ LOCATION:Creative Lounge\, WorkStation\, 15 Paternoster Row\, Sheffield\, S1 2BX CATEGORIES:Authors North,SoA in Person ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/In-Person-Listening-Session.jpg GEO:53.3772013;-1.4653661 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Creative Lounge WorkStation 15 Paternoster Row Sheffield S1 2BX;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=15 Paternoster Row:geo:-1.4653661,53.3772013 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260919T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260919T173000 DTSTAMP:20260918T080506Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260918T080506Z UID:10002154-1789812000-1789839000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:SoA Conference 2026 | AI and the creative workforce DESCRIPTION:AI and the creative workforce: redefining the skills needed to sustain a living as an author in an era of AI. This year’s conference will equip members with practical tools and advice for professional life in the age of AI\, while celebrating the importance of human connection.Bookings have now closed\, but if you would like to join us for the conference\, please email us at events@societyofauthors.org.  \n\n£50 – SoA member\n£55 – Friends of the SoA\n£70 – Non-Member\n\nNot a member? sign up here. \nKindly sponsored by \n \nProgramme\n\n10am – Listening session | hosted by SoA’s Chief Executive\, Anna Ganley\, Head of Events & Engagement\, Sophia A Jackson\, and Head of Membership and Author Communities\, Emma Boniwell.\n\n\n10.45am – Registration | tea and coffee on arrival\n11am – Keynote – Prof Helen Mort | Poet and lecturerDigital lives\, analogue truths: Reflections on the place of poetry\, fiction and non-fiction in an artificially intelligent world from creative writer Helen Mort\, drawing on her experience of using art as a defence against deepfake technologies. \n11.25am –  How I Illustrate – talk and draw-along with Lisa Maltby\n\nIllustrator Lisa Maltby will lead a session on the connection between words and illustration through type and lettering\, particularly for book covers/titles. Lisa will give a brief introduction with some relevant projects and then guide you through drawing a simple illuminated letter in black and white. Lisa will answer questions and talk through the parallels in her work/process. \n\n12.15pm – Lunch\n\n\n1pm – AI: The big debate with Bec Evans\n\nAn interactive session inviting the audience to share concerns about AI’s impact on writing careers\, with author insights from Akeem Balogun. \n\n2pm – Book marketing in the age of AI with Anna CaigIn this session\, communications consultant and historical fiction author Anna Caig\, a regular host of our online events programme covering all aspects of book marketing from TikTok to collaborating and community\, joins the line up sharing insights on how to embrace the ‘be more human’ marketing approach\, finding readers for your work without using AI; and how to navigate the book marketing sphere to build a successful AI-free strategy.\n2.45pm – Tea/coffee break\n\n\n3pm – How I Write – in conversation with Matt Coyne (aka Man versus Baby)\n\nHosted by SoA Head of Membership and Author Communities\, Emma Boniwell \n\n3.45pm – Closing words from SoA Chief Executive\, Anna Ganley\n\n\n4–5.30 pm – SoA Lates – Hosted by Jeevani Charika | Café bar drinks\, networking and nibbles with thanks to Hachette for their sponsorship of the SoA Lates Sheffield edition.\n\nKindly sponsored by \n \nThe Line-up\nJeevani Charika\nJeevani Charika writes award nominated women’s fiction and romcoms. She also writes as Rhoda Baxter. Her YouTube channel teaches authors how to use Canva. She lives in Yorkshire\, where she enjoys eating cake\, playing with Lego and\, when she’s run out of excuses\, writing books. \nWebsite: jeevanicharika.com \nHelen Mort\nHelen Mort has published four poetry collections with Chatto & Windus. Her latest is STEPMOTHER (2026). Her work has been shortlisted for the T.S. Eliot Prize and the Forward Prize. She is Professor of Creative Writing at Manchester Metropolitan and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature. \nWebsite: www.helenmort.com  \nLisa Maltby \nLisa Maltby is an independent illustrator and designer based in Sheffield. Her work blends craft with purpose\, resulting in work that connects with audiences and brings stories to life. With a diverse portfolio spanning publishing\, editorial\, branding\, and heritage\, Lisa has worked with clients including Penguin Random House\, The Guardian\, National Trust and Waitrose Food. \nWebsite: www.lisamaltby.com | Instagram:@lisamaltbystudio   \nMatt Coyne\nIn September 2015\, Matt’s life was turned upside down when\, after three months of parenthood\, he logged on to social media and wrote about his experience of having to live with ‘a furious\, sleep-murdering\, unstable and incontinent\, breasts-obsessed midget lodger’. Within days\, his post about surviving the first few months of parenting was shared by millions. Following this\, Matt created his popular blog Man vs Baby. He has written two Sunday Times bestselling books\, the first entitled ‘Dummy’ and the second ‘Man vs Toddler’. And his debut novel ‘Frank and Red’ was heralded by critics and readers as one of the best debuts of the past ten years\, described by The Daily Mirror as ‘Simply Perfect’. His second novel\, ‘The Trouble With Sister Francis’\, set in early eighties Sheffield\, is due to be released in August 2026.  Matt lives in South Yorkshire with his son Charlie\, his partner Lyndsay and a Jack Russell terrier with ‘issues’ called Popcorn. \nInstagram: @manversusbaby | Facebook: manversusbaby | X: @mattcoyney \n  \nBec Evans\nBec Evans is a writing coach and co-author of Written: How to Keep Writing and Build a Habit That Lasts and the Substack bestseller Breakthroughs & Blocks. A former bookseller\, Arvon Centre Director and Publishing Head of Innovation\, she has been researching AI while writing a book on creative persistence. \nNewsletter: Breakthroughs & Blocks | Website for Written Academy: Written Academy | Podcast: This Might Work | LinkedIn: Bec Evans | | Instagram: @becevans_writes \n  \nAkeem Balogun\nAkeem Balogun is a writer whose fiction has appeared in multiple publications\, and he has written stories for artists\, projects and festivals. His debut collection of stories\, The Storm\, won the Society of Authors’ Somerset Maugham Award. His latest work\, ‘Post-modern Hustle’\, was published by Intergraphia Books. \nInstagram: @writtengallery | X: @writtengallery | Website: https://writtengallery.com \n  \nAnna Caig\nAnna Caig trains creative people to do their own marketing\, running courses and working one-to-one with many writers. She’s worked in communications for over 20 years. Anna’s novel The Wise Witch of Orkney will be published in February 2026. She is obsessed with the hidden voices of women in history.  \nWebsite: annacaig.co.uk |Instagram: @AnnaCaig | TikTok: @AnnaCaig \n  \nAnna Ganley\, Society of Authors                              \nAs Chief Executive\, Anna is responsible for overseeing the running of the Society of Authors and driving the SoA’s mission of empowering and supporting authors in the UK. Working closely with the SoA’s board of directors (Management Committee)\, Anna ensures that SoA’s activities and campaigns remain aligned with the SoA’s core mission. \nAnna sits on the board of the International Authors Forum and is a member of the London Book Fair Advisory Board. \nBorn in Sunderland\, Anna grew up on the north-east coast. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Durham and her MA in Management from Durham Business School. \n  \nEmma Boniwell\, Society of Authors\nEmma rejoined the Society of Authors in 2024 as Head of Membership and Author Communities. She leads the Member Services team and works on the strategic development of membership recruitment\, volunteer management\, development of all author communities and membership benefits. \nShe is the coordinator of the Society of Authors in Wales. \n  \nAccessibility\nVenue Access: \n\nWheelchair Access: All public areas are wheelchair accessible via lifts and ramps.\nAccessible Toilets: There are accessible toilets throughout the building\, including in the Work Station areas.\nQuiet Spaces: If you need a moment of calm during your visit\, the staff at WorkStation can direct you to a quieter area.\nBlue 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.\nAll 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.\nFurther accessibility information can be found via Workstation’s website: https://workstation.org.uk/accessibility-policy\n\nAdditional: \n\nBSL interpretation: If you require BSL interpretation to take part in this event\, please email events@societyofauthors.org.\nOther access requirements: Please email events@societyofauthors.org with any other accessibility needs.\n\n  \nFeeling unwell?\nWe recommend the following: \n\nStaying home if you’re feeling unwell or have flu-like symptoms\nWashing your hands when coming in from the outdoors and / or before touching your face\nApplying alcohol hand sanitiser (we will have these on site)\nWe advise attendees to wear a face mask if they feel comfortable doing so\n\n  \nAbout Authors North\n \nAlthough the group hasn’t hosted any in person events since 2020 we are very much looking forward to re-establishing meetings in the North of England on an annual basis. \n\n\n \nWe are always keen to hear your ideas of venues\, speakers and events; please get in touch with any suggestions for future events get in touch. \n\n\n \nJoin our Facebook group to keep up to date with events and opportunities across the area and chat to fellow members. \n\n\n \nThe SoA also supports multiple member-led local groups across the North of England. Visit out local groups pages to find out what is happening near you. \n\n\n \n  \nBooking and Tickets\nPlease read our event booking Terms and Conditions: https://societyofauthors.org/legal-privacy/event-terms/ \nTickets – includes all refreshments for the day conference and evening networking event \n\n£50 – SoA member\n£55 – Friends of the SoA\n£70 – Non-Member\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Society of Authors’ Access Fund - donate now\n \n Giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreatsEvery contribution helps us ensure that these needs and costs aren’t barriers to authors wishing to access events. If you are in a position to help\, please donate via the link below. If you are an author facing access issues\, please click here to see if we can help. DONATE NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SoA Fundraising Bookshop\n \n Browse our virtual Bookshop.org store featuring books by authors and speakers taking part in our events programme. When you make a purchase using our affiliate links\, a percentage will go to the Society of Authors’ Access Fund\, giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreats. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/authors-north-conference-2026-ai-and-the-creative-workforce/ LOCATION:Creative Lounge\, WorkStation\, 15 Paternoster Row\, Sheffield\, S1 2BX CATEGORIES:Authors North,SoA in Person ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SoA-Conference-new.jpg GEO:53.3772013;-1.4653661 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Creative Lounge WorkStation 15 Paternoster Row Sheffield S1 2BX;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=15 Paternoster Row:geo:-1.4653661,53.3772013 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Amsterdam:20260919T150000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Amsterdam:20260919T170000 DTSTAMP:20260914T074446Z CREATED:20260603T114838Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260914T074446Z UID:10002248-1789830000-1789837200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Netherlands Group: Talk with Ben Coates DESCRIPTION:Join our Netherlands Group for our next meet-up on Saturday 19 September from 3pm (CEST). For this meeting Ben Coates\, author of How The Dutch Are Different\, The Rhine and The Invention of Amsterdam will be joining us to talk about his experiences in writing and publishing. \nWe will meet at Veem\, Kamer 114\, Van Diemenstraat 410\, 1013 CR Amsterdam. \nAll SoA members welcome\, wherever you live in the Netherlands! \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/netherlands-group-talk-with-ben-coates-190926/ LOCATION:Veem\, Kamer 114\, Van Diemenstraat 410\, Amsterdam\, 1013\, Netherlands CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Netherlands.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:52.390373;4.887227 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Veem Kamer 114 Van Diemenstraat 410 Amsterdam 1013 Netherlands;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Kamer 114\, Van Diemenstraat 410:geo:4.887227,52.390373 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260920T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260920T160000 DTSTAMP:20260915T115140Z CREATED:20260915T115140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260915T115140Z UID:10002285-1789912800-1789920000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Aberdeen Group: Summer Reflections DESCRIPTION:Join the Aberdeen Group for their next meeting on Sunday 20 September from 14:00. Come along and get to know one another and our local SoA community\, make connections and exchange ideas! \nIn this meeting\, we will be sharing or summer reflections after our time away. \nWe will meet on the top floor of the Books and Beans Cafe\, 22 Belmont St\, Aberdeen AB10 1JH.  \nAll members welcome from the surrounding area!  \nTo attend the meeting\, click the Going button below and fill out the RSVP form. If you do not receive a confirmation email\, or have trouble signing up\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/aberdeen-group-summer-reflections-200926/ LOCATION:Books and Beans Cafe\, 22 Belmont St\, Aberdeen\, AB10 1JH CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Aberdeen.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:57.1469386;-2.1013172 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Books and Beans Cafe 22 Belmont St Aberdeen AB10 1JH;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=22 Belmont St\, Aberdeen:geo:-2.1013172,57.1469386 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260921T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260921T120000 DTSTAMP:20260914T102204Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260914T102204Z UID:10002167-1789988400-1789992000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Industry Insider – How to make a successful audio drama 2026 DESCRIPTION:If you love the escape of listening to audio drama\, the freedom of writing audio drama\, or you just want to find out more about the medium\, join industry experts as we unpick what makes a truly great audio play hosted by SoA Scriptwriters (SWG) Committee Member Robin Mukherjee.  \nPanellists include fellow SWG committee members James Clarke and Sean Grundy; this year’s Imison Award winner\, Sylvia Anne Parker and Imison Award shortlistee Sherise Blackman. \nThis event is in conjunction with our Scriptwriters Group (SWG). \nOnline Industry Insider events – free for all + donation \nAll donations made go towards the Society of Authors’ Access Fund. The fund is to help provide authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreats. If you would like to make a donation with your booking\, please do so when registering for the event below. \n  \nWhat will this session cover?\n\nIntro to the panel\nWhat made each panellist fall in love with audio drama?\nThe importance and impact of scripting for audio; sound design; actingand direction \nWhat the panel would like to hear more of\, in audio drama?\nWhat makes the medium unique?\nAdvice for aspiring audio drama writers…\nWhere to find great audio drama!\n\n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Robin Mukherjee (3 mins)\nPanel discussion chaired by Robin Mukherjee\, with James Clarke\, Sylvia-Anne Parker\, Sherise Blackman and Sean Grundy (40 mins)\nQ&A with audience (15 mins) \nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Sophia A Jackson – Head of Events & Engagement\, SoA and Scriptwriters Group Coordinator.\n\n  \nThe Line-up\n  \nRobin Mukherjee\nRobin Mukherjee has contributed extensively to television drama\, both returning series (EastEnders\, Casualty\, The Bill\, etc) and serials (including Grushko with Brian Cox and Andy Serkis\, and Plastic Man with John Thaw and Frances Barber). He has also written for radio and theatre. His first feature film\, Dance of the Wind\, won the Audience Prize at the London Film Festival. His most recent film\, Lore\, was critically acclaimed worldwide\, winning Best Adapted Screenplay at the Australian Writers Guild Awards\, the Public Prize at Locarno\, and many others. It was Australia’s official entry to the Oscars. \nHis original three-part serial\, Combat Kids\, for CBBC/BBC1 was nominated for a BAFTA. Recent work includes Hetty Feather for CBBC\, and a feature film adaptation of Satish Kumar’s memoir No Destination. His current projects include an adaptation of Paul Scott’s (Booker Prize winning) novel Staying On supported by the BFI\, and a feature film\, Petrichor\, also supported by the BFI\, co-written with BAFTA winning director Esther May Campbell. His book\, The Art of Screenplays – A Writer’s Guide\, is published by Kamera Press\, and his novel\, Hillstation\, by Oldcastle Books. He is Course Director of MA Scriptwriting at Bath Spa University. \nWebsite: https://robinmukherjee.com/ \n  \nJames Clarke\nJames Clarke is a writer and educator with a focus on cinema and literature. James was educated at the University of Warwick and at the University of Bristol. James has taught on the MA Screenwriting course at London Film School and is a guest tutor at Falmouth University. He has also worked as a Script Reader for the British Film Institute. Currently\, James is developing a feature film screenplay with a UK-based production company and is also writing a new book about filmmaking. \nInstagram: @jameswriter72 \n  \nSylvia-Anne Parker\nSylvia-Anne Parker’s writing journey has taken her from script supervisor to directors including Danny Boyle\, Cary Fukunaga\, Yorgos Lanthimos and Clio Barnard to winning the 2026 Imison Award. She enjoys fusing fact with fiction to create stories featuring characters who despite being up against the system manage to survive. \n  \nSherise Blackman\nSherise Blackman is a multi-hyphenate actor\, writer\, and producer with a sharp\, fearless voice. She is the creator and lead writer on Audible Original scripted comedy series Do Not Disturb where she also stars as the lead character ‘Saffron’. Her writer credits include staff writer on Sky’s Dreamland (S2) and writers’ assistant on Netflix/Shondaland’s Bridgerton (S2). Sherise is a dynamic creative with a passion for bold ideas\, fresh perspectives\, and storytelling that resonates.  \nInstagram: @iamsheblackman \n  \nSean Grundy\nSean Grundy is a radio dramatist whose work spans comedy\, drama and factual storytelling. His work includes Cavity (“glitteringly original” – The Guardian)\, spy comedy Sony-nominated The Recordist\,  and Tinniswood Award-nominated Far Side of the Moore. Recent writing includes the radio dramas The Poor Olympics\, ReadyPLayerMarx\, Rita\, Rue and Bob Too and the acclaimed BBC Sounds serial drama How to Burn a Million Quid. \nHe is also an Emmy-winning\, BAFTA-nominated director for audio\, TV and film. His latest feature film is tHE iNVISIBLES\, a surreal\, no-budget comedy musical adapted from his first radio play\, Cavity. \n  \nAbout the Scriptwriters Group (SWG)\nThe Scriptwriters Group (SWG) is a community of scriptwriters and broadcasters. It represents writers and makers across digital\, broadcast\, AV and theatre. \nWe support members and associates by providing professional\, individual advice\, negotiating collective minimum terms agreements with organisations such the BBC\, and lobby on policy and legislation to promote the interests and protect the rights of scriptwriters. \nIn addition\, we manage a series of seminars\, panel discussions and ‘in conversation’ style events throughout the year\, on matters of concern and interest to members working across these industry sectors. We also publish interviews and develop resources for publication on the SoA website and via our quarterly journal\, The Author. \nThe Group is made up of an elected committee and the Group Chair is Rhiannon Tise. Whilst the committee directs the work of the group\, the day-to-day administration is handled by Co-Administrators Sophia Jackson and Theo Jones. Contact either Sophia or Theo with any scriptwriting-related topics\, concerns or suggestions that you might wish to raise with the committee. \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email SJackson@societyofauthors.org with ‘How to make a successful audio drama’ in the subject header. We will prioritise questions sent in advance and answer as many as we can from the audience on the day. \n  \nAccessibility\n\nAttendees will have the option to turn on the live transcript\, to watch with subtitles\nIf you require BSL interpretation for this event\, please email events@societyofauthors.org\n\n  \nBooking\nPlease either use the form titled ‘Register – no donation’ or the option of the different ticket options with a donation amount depending on how much you would like to donate towards the Society of Authors Access Fund. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Society of Authors’ Access Fund - donate now\n \n Giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreatsEvery contribution helps us ensure that these needs and costs aren’t barriers to authors wishing to access events. If you are in a position to help\, please donate via the link below. If you are an author facing access issues\, please click here to see if we can help. DONATE NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n SoA Fundraising Bookshop\n \n Browse our virtual Bookshop.org store featuring books by authors and speakers taking part in our events programme. When you make a purchase using our affiliate links\, a percentage will go to the Society of Authors’ Access Fund\, giving authors support for travel\, subsistence\, childcare or access needs for events\, residencies\, and retreats. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/industry-insider-how-to-make-a-successful-audio-drama-2026/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Scriptwriters Group ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Industry-Insider_How-to-make-a-successful-audio-drama-2026-3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260923T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260923T130000 DTSTAMP:20260717T141645Z CREATED:20260119T131457Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T141645Z UID:10001920-1790161200-1790168400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Salisbury and Wiltshire Group meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Salisbury and Wiltshire Group for an in person meet-up on Wednesday 23 September from 11am. We will meet at Boston Tea Party\, Old George Inn\, 13 High Street\, Salisbury SP1 2NJ. \nThis is a social meeting where we will catch up over a drink and have a chat about all things writerly. \nAll members welcome! \nTo join us\, click the Going button below and enter your details in the RSVP so we know how many people to expect. This venue does have stairs and might be tricky for those with accessibility issues; if this will affect you please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/salisbury-and-wiltshire-group-meet-up-230926/ LOCATION:Boston Tea Party (Salisbury)\, Old George Inn\, 13 High Street\, Salisbury\, SP1 2NJ CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Salisbury-Wiltshire.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:52.2936456;-1.5381707 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Boston Tea Party (Salisbury) Old George Inn 13 High Street Salisbury SP1 2NJ;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Old George Inn\, 13 High Street:geo:-1.5381707,52.2936456 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR