BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//The Society of Authors - ECPv6.18.3.1//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/Rome 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: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:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/Paris 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/Rome:20261110T213000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Rome:20261110T223000 DTSTAMP:20261027T095717Z CREATED:20261027T095535Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261027T095717Z UID:10002346-1794346200-1794349800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Italy Group: What are we working towards? DESCRIPTION:Join the Italy Group for an online meet-up on Tuesday 10 November from 21:30 (CET) \nIn a writer’s life many ideas may come and go\, but committing to a project and seeing it through to completion is another matter. It is a complex enterprise and will have its reasons and internal motivations. In this Italy SOA branch meeting we will share what writing projects we are working towards\, as well as reflecting with each other on the various journeys\, lessons and experiences involved. \nAnyone with a writing link to Italy 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/italy-group-what-are-we-working-towards-101126/ CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Italy.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org LOCATION:https://societyofauthors.org/event/italy-group-what-are-we-working-towards-101126/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261111T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261111T120000 DTSTAMP:20260717T141123Z CREATED:20260122T130941Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T141123Z UID:10001944-1794391200-1794398400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Warwickshire Group: Creative Coffee Morning DESCRIPTION:Join the Warwickshire Group on Wednesday 11 November 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-111126/ 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:20261111T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261111T140000 DTSTAMP:20261102T152615Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261102T152615Z UID:10002209-1794394800-1794405600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Presentation skills for authors DESCRIPTION:Presenting your work in person is an increasingly important part of being an author; whether you’re speaking at festivals\, bookshops\, schools\, industry events or on panels. This practical workshop will help you build confidence and sharpen your delivery\, exploring how to communicate your ideas clearly\, connect with an audience and present yourself authentically. Together\, we’ll look at how to structure your message\, manage nerves\, use your voice and body language effectively and handle Q&As or challenging moments with greater ease. The seminar will include an interactive presentation practice session.This session is for authors and writers at any stage of their career who want to feel more confident and engaging when speaking in front of an audience. \nTickets for this event include lunch and additional light refreshments throughout the session. \n  \nWhat this session will cover\nAttendees will take away:  \n\nPractical techniques to manage nerves and build confidence before and during a presentation\nTools for structuring talks\, readings and panel contributions clearly and effectively\nGreater awareness of voice\, pace\, presence and body language\nStrategies for connecting with different audiences and holding attention\nTips for handling audience questions and unexpected moments with confidence\nA clearer sense of your own presentation style and strengths\n\n  \nProgramme\n\n10.45am – Refreshments\n11am – Welcome and introductions from Sophia A Jackson – Head of Events and EngagementSoA\n11.05am – Workshop hosted by Ronke Lawal\n12pm – Comfort break\n12.15pm Workshop resumes\n1.30 pm – Lunch\n2pm – Event closes\n\n  \nThe Line up\nRonke Lawal\nRonke Lawal is a passionate PR & comms consultant and founder of Ariatu PR. With a focus on diverse storytelling and authentic brand voices\, she empowers entrepreneurs and creatives to shine through her personal branding and media coaching work. Ronke is a vocal advocate for inclusion\, representation and confidence in communication across media\, business and public speaking platforms. \nWebsites: www.ronkelawal.com | www.ariatupublicrelations.com \n  \nAccessibility\n\nOur Events space is located on the ground floor of our office. We have a wheelchair ramp at the side entrance of the building. We also have an accessible toilet by the side entrance.\nIf you have any access requirements\, please email events@societyofauthors.org\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  \nTickets \n\nSoA Members – £25\nNon-Members – £35 \n\nTickets for this event include lunch and light refreshments throughout the session. \n  \nBooking\nBook your place using the booking from below. Places are limited. \nPlease read our event booking Terms and Conditions: https://societyofauthors.org/legal-privacy/event-terms/ \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/presentation-skills-for-authors/ LOCATION:The Society of Authors\, 24 Bedford Row\, London\, WC1R 4EH\, London\, WC1R 4EH\, GB CATEGORIES:SoA in Person ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Presentation-skills-for-authors-1.jpg GEO:51.5206792;-0.1162502 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Society of Authors 24 Bedford Row London WC1R 4EH London WC1R 4EH GB;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=24 Bedford Row\, London\, WC1R 4EH:geo:-0.1162502,51.5206792 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261111T173000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261111T190000 DTSTAMP:20260717T125524Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260717T125524Z UID:10002138-1794418200-1794423600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Translators Association end of year review and online social DESCRIPTION:Join the Translators Association (TA) for their end of year review and online social. Find out what the committee has been doing this year and look ahead to 2027\, meet the committee informally and hang out and chat with other TA members. \n  \nProgramme\n\nEnd of year review: Find out what the TA committee has been doing this year and look ahead to 2027. Including time for Q&A. (30 mins)\nMeet the committee informally and hang out and chat with other TA members online via Zoom and in a variety of different themed breakout rooms hosted by the committee (60 mins)\nBreakout rooms\n\nThemes will be notified nearer the date and are subject to change depending on the interests of the attendees.  Attendees are welcome to join or leave rooms as they wish. Please contact Catherine Fuller if you would like to suggest a particular topic for discussion. \n  \nAbout the Translators Association (TA)\nThe Translators Association (TA) provides a source of expert advice for individual literary translators and is also a collective voice representing the profession as a whole.  \nTranslators automatically become a member of the TA on joining the SoA. \nThe TA is run by a committee of 8 members and coordinated by Catherine Fuller and Ambre Morvan. Catherine and Ambre are also members of the SoA Contracts Advisory team \n  \nAccessibility \n\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live captions\nIf you require BSL interpretation for this event\, please email events@societyofauthors.org\n\n  \nBooking\nBook your place using the registration form below. This event is for SoA Members only. \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/translators-association-end-of-year-review-and-online-social/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Translators Association ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/TA-end-of-year-review-and-online-social-4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261111T174500 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261111T184500 DTSTAMP:20261023T112702Z CREATED:20261023T111753Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261023T112702Z UID:10002343-1794419100-1794422700@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Ireland Group online catch-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Ireland Group for our next online meet-up on Wednesday 11 November at 17:45.   \nWe’ll meet on Zoom for an informal catch up and share updates on our writing projects. \nDon’t worry if you haven’t been to a meeting before\, all 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/ireland-group-online-catch-up-111126/ CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Ireland.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org LOCATION:https://societyofauthors.org/event/ireland-group-online-catch-up-111126/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261113T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261113T160000 DTSTAMP:20261015T093855Z CREATED:20261006T101830Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261015T093855Z UID:10002306-1794578400-1794585600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:West Midlands Group: Self v Traditional Publishing DESCRIPTION:Join the West Midlands Group on Friday 13 November from 14:00 for an in-person discussion on self-publishing versus traditional publishing. \n What are the connections and differences between the two modes of publication? What questions should you ask yourself when deciding between these two routes? What is the role of the author in each of these modes of publication? This is an opportunity for you to share your own experiences of publishing and ask questions of others. \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/west-midlands-group-self-v-traditional-publishing131126/ 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:20261113T160000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261113T180000 DTSTAMP:20261021T104752Z CREATED:20261021T103950Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T104752Z UID:10002338-1794585600-1794592800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:South East London Group: Substack with Emma Darwin DESCRIPTION:Join the South East London Group on Friday 13 November from 16:00 for our next in person meet up.  \nIn this meeting\, novelist Emma Darwin will lead a discussion on writing on Substack.  \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-substack-with-emma-darwin-131126/ 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;VALUE=DATE:20261114 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261116 DTSTAMP:20261030T164716Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261030T164716Z UID:10002296-1794614400-1794787199@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Society of Authors at Thought Bubble Comic Convention 2026 DESCRIPTION:We’re excited to be returning to Thought Bubble Comic Convention this November. \nOur Events & Engagement Manager and co-ordinator of the SoA’s Comics Creators Network\, Lilly Brend-Fish will be at the stand throughout the weekend. Come along to meet the team\, and connect with members of the Comics Creators Network. \nJoin the Society of Authors’ Senior Contracts advisor\, Theo Jones\, and award-winning comics creator\, scriptwriter and campaigner\, Hannah Berry\, as they explore the professional side of being a comics creator in 2026\, and the challenges this brings in the face of AI. \nWe’ll be at the convention on Saturday and Sunday\, located in Bubbleboy Hall\, at Table B30. Find us on the map here \n  \nUnion Support for Comics as a Profession\nSaturday 14 November\, 15.15-16.15 | Queen’s Suite\nJoin the Society of Authors’ Senior Contracts advisor\, Theo Jones\, and award-winning comics creator\, scriptwriter and campaigner\, Hannah Berry\, as they explore the professional side of being a comics creator in 2026\, and the challenges this brings in the face of AI. This session offers essential and practical advice on navigating copyright\, negotiating contracts\, and protecting your income and intellectual property. \nThey’ll also delve into how the SoA and the Comics Creators Network are campaigning for creators’ rights and fighting for changes in Parliament. Learn how to protect your work and your career\, and leave empowered to raise your voice alongside your fellow comics creators. \nTickets are available to purchase via Thought Bubble’s website here: https://www.thoughtbubblefestival.com/tickets  \n  \nThe Line-up\nHannah Berry\nHannah Berry is an occasionally award-winning comics creator\, scriptwriter and campaigner\, and is a founding committee member of the Comics Creators Network and co-director of the Comics Cultural Impact Collective. She is a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and was UK Comics Laureate 2019-21. \nWebsite: hannahberry.co.uk | Instagram: @streakofpith | Bluesky: streakofpith.bsky.social \n  \nTheo Jones\nTheo Jones advises members on contracts and issues. He is joint coordinator of the Scriptwriters Group and co-produces and co-presents the SoA Advisory Clinic podcast covering the key topics\, issues and challenges affecting writers today. \n  \nAbout the Comics Creators Network\nThe Comics Creators Network is a pressure group of working authors that advocates for the rights of traditionally and self-published creators of comics and graphic novels in the UK. \nThe comics industry has a history of treating people who work in it as disposable\, and this is something that needs to change. It can be hard to push back when bad conditions are often viewed as standard practice\, but if you publish comics you are an author just like every other poet\, essayist or novelist\, and you deserve to be treated the same way. No one should accept substandard treatment because they are grateful for being published. \nPlease get in touch with us at comics@societyofauthors.org if you have any questions about how to join. \n  \nBooking\nTickets are available to purchase via Thought Bubble’s website here: https://www.thoughtbubblefestival.com/tickets URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/society-of-authors-at-thought-bubble-comic-convention-2026/ LOCATION:Harrogate Convention Centre\, King's Road\, Harrogate\, HG1 5LA CATEGORIES:Comics Creators Network,SoA in Person ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SoA-x-Thought-Bubble-2026-4.jpg GEO:53.999302;-1.5401868 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Harrogate Convention Centre King's Road Harrogate HG1 5LA;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=King's Road:geo:-1.5401868,53.999302 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261114T130000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261114T150000 DTSTAMP:20260720T114806Z CREATED:20260720T105732Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260720T114806Z UID:10002212-1794661200-1794668400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:East Midlands Group Nottingham hybrid meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the East Midlands Group in-person and online on Saturday 14 November from 1pm 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\n\nWe will meet in person at the Library\, 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-141126/ LOCATION:The Library\, The Broadway\, The Library\, The Broadway\, 14-18 Broad Street\, Nottingham\, NG1 3AL 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 GEO:52.9543037;-1.1437646 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Library The Broadway The Library The Broadway 14-18 Broad Street Nottingham NG1 3AL;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=The Library\, The Broadway\, 14-18 Broad Street:geo:-1.1437646,52.9543037 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Amsterdam:20261114T150000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Amsterdam:20261114T170000 DTSTAMP:20261030T120012Z CREATED:20261030T110937Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261030T120012Z UID:10002349-1794668400-1794675600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Netherlands Group: Pre-AGM discussion DESCRIPTION:Join our Netherlands Group for our next in-person meet-up on Saturday 14 November from 15:00 (CEST). \nThis will be an open meeting to discuss any issues you want to get off your chest ahead of the AGM (it doesn’t have to be AI!) or just catch up with your colleagues. \nWe will meet at MindSpace Dam\, Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 162\, 1012 SJ Amsterdam. \nAll SoA members welcome\, wherever you live in the Netherlands! \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/netherlands-group-pre-agm-discussion-141126/ LOCATION:MindSpace Dam\, Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 162\, Amsterdam\, 1012 SJ 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:52.3743982;4.8909725 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=MindSpace Dam Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 162 Amsterdam 1012 SJ;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 162:geo:4.8909725,52.3743982 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261116T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261116T160000 DTSTAMP:20261030T165022Z CREATED:20220121T162059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261030T165022Z UID:10001866-1794823200-1794844800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:SOLD OUT | SoA Author Photos DESCRIPTION:Tickets for this event are now sold out. Please contacts events@societyofauthors.org if you wish to be added to the waitlist. \n  \nSoA members are offered the chance to have a professional author photo taken by photographer Adrian Pope for a fraction of the usual cost. The usual price for professional headshots is around £200 or considerably more for a longer studio session. \nCome and update your headshot at the SoA offices on Bedford Row – this is offered at a discounted price of £40 for SoA members and £60 for non-members on a first come\, first served basis to members. \n  \nAGM Week 2026\nWith discussions around all aspects of the business of authorship we ask how authors and publishing professionals can work better together and how authors can find support if they need it. \nOnline \n\nIndustry Insider – The Big Conversation: the future of publishing | Monday 16 November\, 11.00-12.00\nAGM online member social | Wednesday 18 November\, 11.00-12.00\nSoA Annual General Meeting | Thursday 19 November\, 17.00-19.00\n\n  \nWhat do you get?\n\nYou’ll be given a 10 minute slot.\nBasic light retouching included (general lightening\, darkening\, crop and portrait softening as needed) to your chosen photo.\n\n  \nNeed to know\n\nLicence for usage. Your photo can be used across your social media channels\, websites\, press and PR\nThe licence does not include usage for above the line advertising or book jackets – please contact Adrian Pope for permission.\n*Above the line advertisement means paid for advertising\, for example\, a poster on the underground\, bus shelter\, above the M4 motorway\, multiple points of sale displays in book shops. Where a small fortune is being spent on a marketing – advertising campaign\, a fee is required to use the photo.\nPlease note that your photos will include the head-to-shoulder/chest area.\n\n  \nGetting to the Society of Authors\n\nOur address: 24 Bedford Row\, London WC1R 4EH\nNearest tube stations: Chancery Lane or Holborn\nClick for Map \n\n  \nAccessibility\n\nOur events space is located on the ground floor of our office\, we have a wheelchair ramp round the side entrance of the building. We also have an accessible toilet by the side entrance.\nIf you require BSL interpretation to take part in this event\, please email events@societyofauthors.org.\nIf you have any other accessibility needs\, please email events@societyofauthors.org\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  \nBook your author photo slot\n£40 for SoA Members \n£60 for Non-Members \nOnce we have received your booking\, a Calendly link will be manually sent for you to confirm your slot. Slots are between 10am and 4pm on Monday 16 November 2026 at the SoA. \n  \nBooking\nBook your place using the booking from below. Places are limited. \nPlease read our event booking Terms and Conditions: https://societyofauthors.org/legal-privacy/event-terms/ \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-author-photos-2/ LOCATION:The Society Of Authors\, 24 Bedford Row\, London\, WC1R 4EH\, London\, WC1R 4EH\, GB CATEGORIES:SoA in Person ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Author-Photos-Day-5.jpg GEO:51.5206792;-0.1162502 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Society Of Authors 24 Bedford Row London WC1R 4EH London WC1R 4EH GB;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=24 Bedford Row\, London\, WC1R 4EH:geo:-0.1162502,51.5206792 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261116T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261116T120000 DTSTAMP:20261026T132152Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261026T132152Z UID:10002340-1794826800-1794830400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:The big conversation: the future of publishing DESCRIPTION:Chaired by SoA’s Chief Executive\, Anna Ganley\, who will be joined by President of the Association of Authors’ Agents\, Hellie Ogden\, Managing Director of the Booksellers Association\, Meryl Halls\, and CEO of the Publishers Association\, Dan Conway. They will discuss the potential challenges and opportunities in the books and publishing industry as we look ahead to 2027. \n  \nFree 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  \nOnline \n\n\n\nThe big conversation: the future of publishing | Monday 16 November\, 11.00-12.00\nAGM online member social | Wednesday 18 November\, 11.00-12.00\nSoA Annual General Meeting | Thursday 19 November\, 17.00-19.00\n\n\n\n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Anna Ganley – Chief Executive\, SoA (3 mins)\nAnna Ganley (SoA) chairs a discussion with Hellie Ogden\, Meryl Halls and Dan Conway (40 mins)\nQ&A with audience (15 mins) \nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Elsa Robert – Executive Administrator\, SoA \n\n  \nThe Line-up\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  \nHellie Ogden\, Association of Authors’ Agents\nHellie is co-head of the UK Book division and Partner at WME. She is the current President of the Association of Authors’ Agents. She represents fiction\, children’s books and non-fiction and enjoys bold storytelling\, moving prose and vivid\, thought-provoking characters. She is actively taking on new clients and as an editorially focused agent\, she has a keen interest in helping to develop and nurture debut writers. Hellie was shortlisted for Agent of the Year at the British Book Awards 2025. She represents a number of global bestsellers and award-winning writers and often speaks at writing conferences and mentors debut writers. \n  \nMeryl Halls\, Booksellers Association\nMeryl Halls has been Managing Director of the Booksellers Association since 2018 and was named FutureBook Person of the Year in 2020. A leading advocate for bookselling\, she chairs the Book Trade Charity\, serves on the Board of Bookshop.org\, the British Retail Consortium Policy Board and the Executive Committee of the European and International Booksellers Federation. She is also a former Vice Chair of the Independent Retailers Confederation and former Trustee of World Book Day. \n  \nDan Conway\, Publishers Association\nDan became CEO of the Publishers Association in 2022\, having previously been the membership organisation’s Director of External Affairs. Alongside his role at the Publishers Association\, he is a Board Trustee for World Book Day\, Non-Executive Director at Publishers’ Licensing Services\, and a Board Member of the Creative Industries Council. \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email ERobert@societyofauthors.org with ‘The big conversation: the future of publishing’ 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/the-big-conversation-the-future-of-publishing/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,AGM week ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Industry-Insider_The-big-conversation_the-future-of-publishing.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261116T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261116T200000 DTSTAMP:20261028T101226Z CREATED:20261028T101226Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261028T101226Z UID:10002345-1794855600-1794859200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Warwickshire Group: Talk with Leena Norms DESCRIPTION:All members welcome to join the Warwickshire Group for this online event on Monday 16 November from 19:00.\n\nWe are pleased to welcome back Leena Norms to share her wisdom and experience with us based on her life as a poet\, vlogger and presenter with a strong background in publishing. She has amassed over 31 million views on her Youtube channel and has been awarded both the Trailblazer Award and Book Vlogger of the Year by London Book Fair. Additionally\, Leena won the 2024 Bookshop.org Indie Champions Award and served as a judge in the 2025 British Book Awards.\nIn 2022 Leena published her debut poetry collection ‘Bargain Bin Rom-Com’ (Burning Eye Books). In 2024 she published her first non-fiction book ‘Half-Arse Human’ (John Murray).\n\nThe event will be held via Zoom.\n\nIf you have any questions for Leena\, you can submit these before the event to Celia Rees at celiarees@btopenworld.com or there’ll be time to submit questions on the night via the Zoom chat.\n\nThis is a free event.\n\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/warwickshire-group-talk-with-leena-norms-161126/ 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 LOCATION:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87510733197?pwd=Qndpe0wzatdtPSJc4toUawLpHCJr3J.1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261117T160000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261117T173000 DTSTAMP:20260914T084928Z CREATED:20260914T084928Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260914T084928Z UID:10002280-1794931200-1794936600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Cambridge Group translators meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the translators of the Cambridge Group on Tuesday 17 November from 16:00 for an informal chat at our next meet-up. Bring anything you’d like to discuss – knotty problems\, tricky word play\, contractual dilemmas\, massive generalised self-doubt – and come to meet some fellow translators. \nDon’t worry if you haven’t been to a meet-up before\, come along and say hello. If you run into any local translators in the meantime please do invite them along! \nWe’ll meet in the The Parlour (through iron gates at side\, then across hall)\, Cambridge Unitarian Church\, 5 Emmanuel Road\, Cambridge CB1 1JW. There is a kitchen so we can have some tea etc. \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/cambridge-group-translators-meet-up-171126/ LOCATION:Cambridge Unitarian Church\, Emmanuel Road\, Cambridge\, Cambridgeshire\, CB1 1JW\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Cambridge.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:52.2050254;0.1264028 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Cambridge Unitarian Church Emmanuel Road Cambridge Cambridgeshire CB1 1JW United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Emmanuel Road:geo:0.1264028,52.2050254 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261118T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261118T120000 DTSTAMP:20261021T142603Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T142603Z UID:10002235-1794999600-1795003200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:AGM online member social DESCRIPTION:Join us for a pre-AGM online social for SoA members to chat informally with fellow members\, SoA staff\, and Committee members. Whilst we can’t promise drinks and nibbles\, we’ll make every effort to ensure you meet new people and have meaningful conversations. \nYou can register for this year’s Annual General Meeting here \nThis event is for SoA Members only. Not a member? sign up here \n  \nAGM Week 2026\nWith discussions around all aspects of the business of authorship we ask how authors and publishing professionals can work better together and how authors can find support if they need it. \nOnline \n\nIndustry Insider – The Big Conversation: the future of publishing | Monday 16 November\, 11.00-12.00\nAGM online member social | Wednesday 18 November\, 11.00-12.00\nSoA Annual General Meeting | Thursday 19 November\, 17.00-19.00\n\n  \nHow it works\nAfter an initial introduction\, we will throw open the break-out rooms which will be hosted by Committee members and supported by a member of staff. There will be two rounds of 20-minutes. \nThe main Zoom room will remain open to help members get in and out break-out rooms. When the second break-out room session ends\, we will reconvene in the main Zoom room to close. Everyone is welcome in any room. \nJust like any in-person social event\, we encourage you to drop into any break-out room\, and we hope you can chat with fellow members.  The break-out rooms are intended to be purely social. \nThe breakout rooms will be: TBC \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Anna Ganley – Chief Executive\, SoA and Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin – Chair of the SoA Board (3 mins)\nBreakout rooms hosted by SoA staff and Board members for informal chat\, networking and information sharing (40 mins – two 20 mins sessions)\nReturn to the main room for general discussion (15 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Elsa Robert – Executive Administrator\, SoA\n\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. \nFor event or registration questions\, email events@societyofauthors.org. \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/agm-online-member-social/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,AGM week ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/AGM-online-member-social-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261119T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261119T130000 DTSTAMP:20261028T123440Z CREATED:20261028T123440Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261028T123440Z UID:10002347-1795086000-1795093200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Shropshire Group: Book Launches DESCRIPTION:Join the Shropshire Group on Thursday 19 November at 11:00 for the group’s next in person meeting. Come along and get to know your fellow authors. \nThis meeting will have a more structured approach\, with a central topic of book launches. Do come prepared to share your own experiences of launching a book. \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-book-launches-191126/ 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:20261119T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261119T160000 DTSTAMP:20261105T122724Z CREATED:20261014T093448Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261105T122724Z UID:10002358-1795096800-1795104000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Gloucestershire Group: Let's go into research DESCRIPTION:Join our ever-growing\, dynamic Gloucestershire Group on Thursday 19 November from 14:00-16:00. \nLet’s go into research \nIn this session we will share our research experiences and advice: \n\nWhat forms can research take?\nAre we research lovers or haters? Does the rabbit hole of research sometimes lure us from our projects?\nAt what point/s in the writing process do we undertake it?\nHow do we know how much research material is enough?\nWhat research resources\, including AI\, have we found to be especially useful or rich?\n\nIf you can\, please bring along examples of your own research notes (either on paper or on your laptops/tablets); also\, any research resources (or details of them) that you would recommend to others. At the session\, we will circulate a list of useful information sources. \nThe venue has great accessibility: it’s the ground-floor meeting room within the Monastery Café building at Prinknash Abbey\, Cranham\, GL4 8EX. There is a large\, free car park\, above the café building. Walk down steps or a gentle slope to access the café entrance. The meeting room is immediately to your left on entering\, with toilets opposite. The café to the right serves a great selection of non-alcoholic refreshments\, delicious cake etc. \nIf you have accessibility issues\, keep driving: there are two disabled spaces just to the left of the doorway. While the café is generously offering us the meeting room free of charge\, please bring a plastic card or cash to pay for your own refreshments. \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 have an idea of how many people to expect. We are currently experiencing some issues with our RSVP forms. If the RSVP form does not work\, please contact localgroups@societyofauthors.org to register for the meeting. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/gloucestershire-group-lets-go-into-research-191126/ LOCATION:Monastery Café\, Prinknash Abbey\, Cranham\, GL4 8EX\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Gloucestershire,SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Gloucestershire.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:51.8175834;-2.1778873 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Monastery Café Prinknash Abbey Cranham GL4 8EX United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Prinknash Abbey:geo:-2.1778873,51.8175834 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261119T170000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261119T190000 DTSTAMP:20261023T084212Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261023T084212Z UID:10002234-1795107600-1795114800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:SoA Annual General Meeting 2026 DESCRIPTION:Join us online this November for our 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) hosted via Zoom. The AGM is conducted online to allow access to as many members as possible. \nYour votes and participation are important to us. We encourage all Full Members to vote at the AGM or to appoint a proxy and register a voting instruction in advance. Associate Members are encouraged to attend but cannot vote.  \nVoting is managed securely and confidentially by Mi-Voice. They will contact all Full Members with instructions on how to vote\, both on the day or in advance by appointing a proxy to vote on your behalf if you are unable to attend the AGM. If we have an email address on file for you\, Mi-Voice will email you directly. If we only have your postal address\, they will send you printed voting instructions.  \nAt the AGM\, resolutions are put to a vote via electronic poll. If you have voted by proxy\, you may attend the AGM but you will be unable to vote.  \nAny questions? Email events@societyofauthors.org. \nWe are hosting a pre-AGM onlinie social for all SoA Members\, which you can register for here \n  \nAGM Week 2026\nWith discussions around all aspects of the business of authorship we ask how authors and publishing professionals can work better together and how authors can find support if they need it. \nOnline \n\nIndustry Insider – The Big Conversation: the future of publishing | Monday 16 November\, 11.00-12.00\nAGM online member social | Wednesday 18 November\, 11.00-12.00\nSoA Annual General Meeting | Thursday 19 November\, 17.00-19.00\n\n  \n5pm – SoA AGM Agenda\nThe Society of Authors’ AGM is open to Full Members and Associate Members of the SoA only. \nA. Introduction and welcome by Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin\, Chair of the SoA’s board (Management Committee). \nB. The SoA’s ‘Year in Review’ video. \nC. Report on the year’s activities. \nD. Report on the elections to the board.  \nE. To consider and\, if thought fit\, to pass the following Resolutions: \n\nResolution 1: that the minutes of the meeting held on 20 November 2025 be approved.\nResolution 2: that the annual report and accounts for 2025 be approved.\nResolution 3: that the full-subscription members nominated by the Management Committee to become SoA Fellows be ratified. See the nominated members here.\n\nF. Discussion of AI use in the publishing industry and the role we can play. \n  \nImportant information – please read: \nNo additional resolutions have been received from the Management Committee or from groups of 10+ Full Members (in accordance with our Articles). Should any groups of 10+ Full Members wish to submit a Resolution for consideration at the AGM\, please contact the SoA at your earliest convenience\, and by Friday 2 October 2026. We will circulate the full and final wording for the 2026 AGM Resolutions together with voting instructions week commencing Monday 19 October 2026.  \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. \nFor event or registration questions\, email events@societyofauthors.org. \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-annual-general-meeting-2026/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,AGM week ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SoA-AGM-2026.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261120T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261120T160000 DTSTAMP:20261105T134854Z CREATED:20261019T100835Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261105T134854Z UID:10002334-1795183200-1795190400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Brighton and Hove Group: Good News Meet DESCRIPTION:Join the Brighton & Hove Group on Friday 20 November from 14:00 at The Regency Town House for a special meeting celebrating the successes\, milestones and good news in our writing lives. \nDue to the popularity of our first Good News Meet we have unanimously decided upon a second such format. \nIt was a wonderful opportunity for local authors in the community to gain a glimpse of the wealth and diversity of the successful writing talent we have here amongst fellow members in East Sussex. Thank you to the 6 speakers who shared their incredible news and the backgrounds behind their many varied books. \nRecap: \n\nThelma McGough’s fascinating life story – art school with John Lennon\, dating Paul McCartney\, marriage to Roger McGough…and news of her agent and publishing deal with HarperNorth.\nJane Peyton shared her inspiring and serendipitous voyage on how she got her agent through Byte the Book for her cosy crime book set about the ‘ethical assassin.’\nJudy Ridgway\, author of 78 books\, expert in vegetarian cuisine\, wine and international olive oil expert shared (and signed my copy of) her booklet on Olive Oil.\nDavid Hendy talked about the story behind the story behind the story of how The Circus: The Men and Women Who Fought Nazi Germany Over the Airwaves evolved and came to be published with Profile Books.\nElizabeth Darling PhD Architectural Historian who just published her new book\, Palace of the Ether\, Broadcasting House and the Architecture of the BBC. The building of Broadcasting House – the design\, materials and construction sourced only from Britain and its Empire.\nVictor L Moore of Myth&Magick Children’s/YA Fantasy Author\, Playwright and Children’s Drama Tutor who has written series of wonderfully imaginative books for all ages.\n\nIf anyone else is interested in taking one of two more 15 minute slots then please get in touch to localgroups@societyofauthors.org. We already have 4 speakers lined up to share their good news next month\, see below: \n\nMaxine Pancaldi whose debut novel Burning Lies was long listed for the Cheshire Novel Prize 2026 – down to the last 6% of the International writing competition.\nEmer Rohan\, a new member who self-published her debut novel in 2026. Between You and Me is a contemporary novel about teenage secrets and parental pressures.\nHelen Croydon who is going to share the many challenges involved in the publication of memoir she ghostwrote (her name is even on the cover) Forbidden Love: A True Story of Adoption\, Reunion and Longing by Sophia Greenwood with Helen Croydon.\nLuke Young has written a book about living completely offline with no computer or smartphone since he was 18. Find out more about why he made the decision and the implications it has had.\nCecil Marlowe-Cael Fenn will share the news about the publication of her debut novel The Restorative Artist (from publisher Lucent Dreaming) and its immersive launch event.\nMarisa Linton will talk about how she managed to reinvent herself as a prize-winning novelist of speculative and supernatural fiction. Her novels\, The Binding Spell and Circle of Shadows were published in 2025. Her third novel Domain of Darkness will be out on 3 December 2026.\n\nLet’s celebrate one another\, share what we’ve learned\, and cheer each other on. \nWe’ll meet upstairs in The Regency Town House\, 13 Brunswick Square\, Hove\, BN3 1EH. Tea\, coffee and biscuits\, including gluten-free 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. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/brighton-and-hove-group-good-news-meet-201126/ 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:20261124T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261124T140000 DTSTAMP:20261103T094335Z CREATED:20261020T131056Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261103T094335Z UID:10002336-1795521600-1795528800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:South Buckinghamshire Group: Amazon Advertising DESCRIPTION:Join the South Buckinghamshire Group on Tuesday 24 November from 12:00 for our next in person meeting. \nIn this meeting\, we will discuss the pros and cons of using Amazon Advertising to promote our books. This will be delivered by one of our members and will question and cover why do it? and how to do it. \nWe will meet at Beech House\, 17 Penn Rd\, Beaconsfield HP9 2PN. \nDon’t worry if you haven’t attended any meetings before – all members welcome!  \nTo join the group\, please contact member-volunteer group organiser Judy Bartkowiak. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/south-buckinghamshire-group-amazon-advertising-241126/ LOCATION:Beech House\, Penn Road 17\, Beaconsfield\, Buckinghamshire\, HP9 2PN\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/South-Buckinghamshire.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:51.6129563;-0.6477897 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Beech House Penn Road 17 Beaconsfield Buckinghamshire HP9 2PN United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Penn Road 17:geo:-0.6477897,51.6129563 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261125T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261125T110000 DTSTAMP:20261028T132136Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261028T132136Z UID:10002217-1795600800-1795604400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Working Class Writers Network online meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Working Class Writers Network on Wednesday 25 November from 10am for a member-led networking session. Come along and get to know your fellow authors! \nMeeting structure \n\n30 minutes – Whole group discussion on the theme: ‘What does being a working-class writer/illustrator/translator mean to you?’\n30 minutes – Breakout rooms to get to know other members and discuss further in smaller groups.\n\nWe look forward to seeing you there! Please send any future theme suggestions to localgroups@societyofauthors.org.  \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 fill in the joining form on the group webpage: https://societyofauthors.org/groups/working-class-writers/ \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-251126/ 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:20261125T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261125T130000 DTSTAMP:20261005T085524Z CREATED:20260119T132045Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261005T085524Z UID:10001922-1795604400-1795611600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Salisbury and Wiltshire Group meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the Salisbury and Wiltshire Group for an in person meet-up on Wednesday 25 November from 11:00. \nWe will meet at Fig and Fox\, 46 High Street\, Salisbury\, SP1 2NT \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-251126/ LOCATION:Fig and Fox\, 46 High Street\, Salisbury\, SP1 2NT 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:51.067585;-1.7977339 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Fig and Fox 46 High Street Salisbury SP1 2NT;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=46 High Street:geo:-1.7977339,51.067585 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261125T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261125T130000 DTSTAMP:20261016T111944Z CREATED:20261016T111944Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261016T111944Z UID:10002330-1795604400-1795611600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells autumn catch up DESCRIPTION:Join the Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells group for an in person meet-up on Thursday 29 October from 17:30. \nPlease join us for an autumn catchup in Sevenoaks. Meet fellow writers in your area at this informal and supportive session. \nWe will meet at The White Hart\, Tonbridge Road\, Sevenoaks\, TN13 1SG \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/sevenoaks-and-tunbridge-wells-autumn-catch-up-291026/ LOCATION:The White Hart\, Tonbridge Road\, Sevenoaks\, TN3 1SG\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Sevenoaks-and-Tunbridge-Wells.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:51.2564024;0.412347 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The White Hart Tonbridge Road Sevenoaks TN3 1SG United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Tonbridge Road:geo:0.412347,51.2564024 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Paris:20261125T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Paris:20261125T193000 DTSTAMP:20261109T130211Z CREATED:20261109T125324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261109T130211Z UID:10002361-1795631400-1795635000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:France Group catch up DESCRIPTION:Join the France Group on Wednesday 25 November from 18:30 (CET) for a chat and catch-up. \nThis meeting will be a general chat and catch up about where everyone is with their writing at the moment. We will also take a minute to remember a member who has very sadly recently passed. \n \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/france-group-catch-up-251126/ CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/France.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org LOCATION:https://societyofauthors.org/event/france-group-catch-up-251126/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261126T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261126T150000 DTSTAMP:20260930T120043Z CREATED:20240804T201437Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260930T120043Z UID:10001834-1795701600-1795705200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Group Chat - Authors with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses Network Meeting DESCRIPTION:Join us for our next online meet-up on Thursday 26 November from 2pm. \nNovember is one of our general chat months for members to talk in a relaxed environment\, share their experiences and ask for help and advice. \nThese meetings are not recorded to allow for privacy and open discussion. If you have any questions you want support with\, please bring them along to the meeting. \nAbout the Authors with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses Network  \nThe Authors with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses network is a member-led peer support network aims to break feelings of isolation by connecting authors facing common experiences\, in an online community that offers continuing professional and personal support. \nWe run monthly get-togethers using Zoom\, where you can chat informally online with others. Depending on your computer or device\, you can take part either using audio or video. Please let us know if you have any specific needs that will help you take part. \nOur primary aim is to offer a friendly and supportive space where you can feel safe to ask questions\, share experiences\, offer advice\, and make new connections. For more information\, visit our Network page here. \nOur online meet-ups are free to attend for ADCI Network members only. To join us\, click the Going button below and enter your details in the RSVP form. We’ll send you an email with a link to join us on Zoom. \nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk mail folder!  \nIf you have any access questions please contact us at disabledauthors@gmail.com URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/group-chat-authors-with-disabilities-and-chronic-illnesses-network-meeting-261126/ CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,ADCI,Authors with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses Network ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ADCI-6.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Elsa Woodmeade":MAILTO:ewoodmeade@societyofauthors.org LOCATION:https://societyofauthors.org/event/group-chat-authors-with-disabilities-and-chronic-illnesses-network-meeting-261126/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261127T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261127T120000 DTSTAMP:20261109T131251Z CREATED:20260122T131244Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261109T131251Z UID:10001945-1795773600-1795780800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Warwickshire Group: Friday Forum DESCRIPTION:Join the Warwickshire Group on Friday 27 November from 10am for a coffee and a brainstorm session with fellow local authors.  \nWe’ll meet at Cacao Coffee & Chocolate Co\, 52 Warwick Street\, Leamington Spa\, CV32 5JS. Several tables will be reserved for us at the back of the coffee shop which is accessible for wheelchairs. On-street parking or Covent Garden multi-storey car park is close by and there are plenty of bus stops too. \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/warwickshire-group-friday-forum-271126/ LOCATION:Cocao Coffee & Chocolate Co\, 52 Warwick Street\, Leamington Spa\, CV32 5JS 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:52.2918275;-1.5365738 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Cocao Coffee & Chocolate Co 52 Warwick Street Leamington Spa CV32 5JS;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=52 Warwick Street:geo:-1.5365738,52.2918275 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261127T130000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261127T140000 DTSTAMP:20261014T111153Z CREATED:20261014T111153Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T111153Z UID:10002324-1795784400-1795788000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:West Midlands Group online social DESCRIPTION:Join the West Midlands Group on Friday 27 November from 13:00 for an online social. \n\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! \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-online-social-271126/ 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 LOCATION:https://societyofauthors.org/event/west-midlands-group-online-social-271126/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261128T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261128T160000 DTSTAMP:20260903T143544Z CREATED:20260903T143544Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T143544Z UID:10002269-1795874400-1795881600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Belfast & Beyond meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join us at our next coffee catch up on Saturday 28 November from 2pm as we continue to develop our vibrant SoA network across Belfast & Beyond! \nWe aim to bring together writers\, illustrators and literary translators to find inspiration\, support and community. These meet-ups are a friendly\, informal opportunity to connect and chat with local SoA members. Who are they? What are they up to? \nSoA members are encouraged to come along and expand their community in a supportive environment. At these meet-ups members can hear about the work of others\, share their own thoughts or simply chat about the weather. On the day just look out for your local SoA host Frances McVeigh and other members who will be stopping by for a chat. All welcome! \nOur next coffee catch up will take place at The Seamus Heaney Centre\, 38-40 University Road\, Belfast\, BT7 1NJ. \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. \nWith your help we would like to roll out local coffee catch ups on a more regular basis across Northern Ireland for 2026.  Are you based in Antrim or Down and would you like to host one in your local area? Then reach out to Elsa Woodmeade at localgroups@societyofauthors.org for more information. URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/belfast-beyond-meet-up-281126/ LOCATION:The Seamus Heaney Centre\, 38-40 University Road\, Belfast\, BT7 1NJ CATEGORIES:SoA local group meet-up,Society of Authors in Northern Ireland ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Belfast-Beyond.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Frances McVeigh":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org GEO:54.5864948;-5.9358973 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Seamus Heaney Centre 38-40 University Road Belfast BT7 1NJ;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=38-40 University Road:geo:-5.9358973,54.5864948 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261130T160000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261130T170000 DTSTAMP:20261105T160154Z CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261105T160154Z UID:10002359-1796054400-1796058000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Culture strategy in Wales: your views matter DESCRIPTION:The Welsh Government has issued a call for evidence to develop a 10 year Culture and Sport Strategy for Wales. It is crucial that the voices of our authors are heard and listened to. \nThe Society of Authors with SoA Cymru will be developing a response to the consultation. As part of this process\, we want to hear from our members so we can provide evidence on the current state of culture in Wales\, help to shape the strategy and for Wales to become a positive environment for authors. \nPlease come along to this session and share your experiences\, views and future hopes. \nThe session will be moderated by Emma Boniwell\, Head of Membership and Author Communities and the policy discussion will be led by Pauline Vickers\, Policy and Public Affairs Manager for the Devolved Nations. \n  \nFurther information: \nIf you are unable to attend this session there is an opportunity to contribute to the SoA consultation by using this link Welsh Government call for evidence ‘A vision for Culture and Sport in Wales 2026’ – Fill in form  deadline 2 December 2026. \nHere is a link to the Welsh Government call for evidence A vision for culture and sport in Wales: call for evidence | GOV.WALES. This closes on 18 December. \nThis event is for SoA Members only. Not a member? sign up here \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome and introductions from Pauline Vickers – Policy and Public Affairs Manager Devolved Nations\, SoA (2 mins)\nDiscussion lead by Pauline Vickers\, SoA (55 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (3 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Emma Boniwell – Head of Membership and Author Communities\, SoA\n\n  \nThe Line-up\nPauline Vickers\nPauline joined the organisation in June 2026. Pauline has a breadth of experience as a regional political organiser\, A level Lecturer in History and Politics and from Local Government\, managing teams in economic development in Wales and the library service in Scotland. She has also led charitable organisations focusing on community development\, training for volunteers\, funding\, governance and capacity building. \nPauline is Policy and Public Affairs Manager for the Devolved Nations and advocates for members in Wales\, Scotland and Northern Ireland. This includes ensuring members’ interests are represented within Government\, local government and across the industry. \n  \nEmma Boniwell\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 Cymru \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. \nFor event or registration questions\, email events@societyofauthors.org. \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/culture-strategy-in-wales-your-views-matter/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Society of Authors in Wales ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Culture-strategy-in-Wales_your-views-matter.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261130T191500 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261130T211500 DTSTAMP:20261021T125901Z CREATED:20261021T125610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261021T125901Z UID:10002339-1796066100-1796073300@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:East Midlands Group Leicester meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the East Midlands Group in-person on Monday 30 November from 19:15 for an informal chat at our next social. \nThis will be an informal event at which people can share their ideas and work and socialise with each other.\n\nThe meeting is free of charge and is open to all members.\n\n\n\nWe will meet in the cafe/bar area of the Phoenix Art Centre\, 4 Midland St\, Leicester LE1 1TG. \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-leicester-meet-up-301126/ LOCATION:Phoenix Arts Centre\, 4 Midland Street\, Leicester\, Leicester\, LE1 1TG\, United Kingdom 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 GEO:52.6359559;-1.1243566 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Phoenix Arts Centre 4 Midland Street Leicester Leicester LE1 1TG United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=4 Midland Street:geo:-1.1243566,52.6359559 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR