BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//The Society of Authors - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:The Society of Authors 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:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260519T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260519T113000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T134055Z UID:10001864-1779184800-1779190200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Funding Week | Professional Development - Sustainable work for writers: Finding roles that support your creative practice DESCRIPTION:Many authors seek supplementary or flexible work at different stages of their careers\, yet the current job market can feel opaque and fast-moving. \nThis session hosted by author\, career consultant and writing coach\, Patricia Marques\, offers practical\, up-to-date guidance on navigating employment options in a way that supports\, rather than sidelines\, creative practice. We will look at how to identify roles that genuinely fit your needs\, how to articulate your skills effectively in applications\, and how to build a sustainable balance between paid work and writing. \nParticipants will leave with clearer priorities\, a framework for mapping their transferable skills\, and tools to strengthen their CVs and supporting statements. \n  \nThe session is part of our 2026 Funding Week\, a series of #SoAatHome events focusing on funding opportunities for writers in the UK. Funding Week runs from 14-19 May and the events on offer are: \n\n18 May | SoA Grants and Funding FAQs\n19 May | Professional Development – Sustainable work for writers: Finding roles that support your creative practice\n19 May | Professional Development – Crowdfunding\n\nYou can watch the recordings from last year’s Funding Week events via our Resources Page here: \n\nProfessional Development – Developing your creative practice funding\nIndustry Insider – Funding opportunities in England\, Scotland and Wales\nIndustry Insider – Applying for funding for scripted work\nProfessional Development – The nuts and bolts of funding applications\nIndustry Insider – Grants and funding opportunities with the Society of Authors\n\n  \n#SoAatHome Professional Development events – free for SoA Members \nAll #SoAatHome Professional Development sessions continue to be free for members. However\, for non-members\, the price is £35 including VAT. \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome and introductions from Lilly Brend-Fish – Events and Engagement Manager\, SoA (3 mins)\nPresentation by Patricia Marques (60 mins)\nComfort Break (5 mins)\nQ&A with audience (20 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n  \nWhat will this session cover?\nThe session will cover: \n\nHow to clarify personal priorities (income\, flexibility\, working patterns\, creative time) to guide decisions\nHow to evaluate roles and sectors that align with writing practice and long-term goals\nHow to communicate creative and professional experience with impact in CVs\, cover letters\, and statements\nHow the contemporary hiring landscape is changing\, and what this means for applicants\nApproaches for integrating employed work with a sustained writing life without overextension\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho is this session for?\nAuthors at any stage who are considering returning to work\, seeking supplementary income\, or wanting to strengthen their approach to applications and career planning. \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email Lbrendfish@societyofauthors.org with ‘Sustainable work for writers’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\n  \nPatricia Marques\nPatricia Marques is a published author\, career consultant\, and writing coach. She works across fiction and creative practice\, supporting writers in finding clarity\, confidence\, and sustainable momentum in their work and working lives. Her workshops focus on practical guidance\, reflective tools\, and approaches that help authors navigate their careers with intention. \nWebsite: https://patricia-marques.com/ \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Webinar; you will not be visible on screen but will be able to ask questions via the Q&A function or interact via the chat box\nThis event will be recorded but you won’t be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 90 minutes \n\nAfter the event \n\nThe hashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/funding-week-professional-development-sustainable-work-for-writers-finding-roles-that-support-your-creative-practice/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Professional-Development_Sustainable-work-for-writers-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260519T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260519T193000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T134111Z UID:10002026-1779213600-1779219000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Funding Week | Professional Development - Crowdfunding DESCRIPTION:Since 2020\, 77 Publishing has raised over £350\,000 through crowdfunding to publish new books from both established and emerging creators. Join CEO of 77 Publishing Ltd\, Ben Cullis as he discusses how to create\, run and manage a successful Kickstarter campaign with Comic Creator\, Hannah Berry. \nThis event is in conjunction with the SoA’s Comics Creators Network (CCN). \n  \nThe session is part of our 2026 Funding Week\, a series of #SoAatHome events focusing on funding opportunities for writers in the UK. Funding Week runs from 14-19 May and the events on offer are: \n\n18 May | SoA Grants and Funding FAQs\n19 May | Professional Development – Sustainable work for writers: Finding roles that support your creative practice\n19 May | Professional Development – Crowdfunding\n\nYou can watch the recordings from last year’s Funding Week events via our Resources Page here: \n\nProfessional Development – Developing your creative practice funding\nIndustry Insider – Funding opportunities in England\, Scotland and Wales\nIndustry Insider – Applying for funding for scripted work\nProfessional Development – The nuts and bolts of funding applications\nIndustry Insider – Grants and funding opportunities with the Society of Authors\n\n  \n#SoAatHome Professional Development events – free for SoA Members \nAll #SoAatHome Professional Development sessions continue to be free for members. However\, for non-members\, the price is £35 including VAT. \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome and introductions from Hannah Berry (3 mins)\nPresentation by Ben Cullis (60 mins)\nComfort Break (5 mins)\nQ&A with audience (20 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Lilly Brend-Fish – Events & Engagement Manager\, SoA\n\n  \nWhat will this session cover?\n\nWhy choose Kickstarter?\nBuilding a campaign\nCalculating costs and reaching your goal\nMarketing \nFulfilment pitfalls\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho is this session for?\nThis event is for creators looking to raise funds to get their books published. \n  \nAbout the Comics Creators Network (CCN)\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.  \nWe want to raise standards across the publishing environment by holding publishers to account and highlighting best practice. We will advocate for fair contracts and set standards for effective and equitable collaboration between creators.  \nWe also advocate for a more diverse\, inclusive\, and accepting comics industry. We want to improve access to comics\, from routes into the industry\, to best practice for industry events. \nWe do this by: \n\nHolding regular online community meetings to discuss issues and offer a platform for peer-support\, experience sharing\, and conversation\nWorking with SoA to offer access to training and workshops\nSignposting authors to the legal advice\, contract vetting and other support offered by SoA\nWorking with industry bodies\, publishers\, and events organisers to improve access to the industry\nConducting research and speaking with publishers and stakeholders in the comics to lobby for change.\n\n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email Lbrendfish@societyofauthors.org with ‘Crowdfunding’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\n  \nBen Cullis\nBen has been lucky to enjoy a varied career in the creative industries\, from film-making and music production\, to teaching design and now publishing. His love for comics began as a young child and it’s never left him. He is currently the CEO of 77 Publishing Ltd\, who have published 40 books and comics since 2020\, with new talent and several household names.  \nStore: The77comic.net |  Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/4727793513 | Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/The77Publications \n  \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  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Webinar; you will not be visible on screen but will be able to ask questions via the Q&A function or interact via the chat box\nThis event will be recorded but you won’t be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 90 minutes \n\nAfter the event \n\nThe hashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/funding-week-professional-development-crowdfunding/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Comics Creators Network ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Professional-Development_Crowdfunding-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260521T143000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260521T151500 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T141810Z UID:10002021-1779373800-1779376500@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:How I write - in conversation with Cerrie Burnell DESCRIPTION:Grab a cuppa and get to know author\, actor and ambassador Cerrie Burnell. Cerrie will be in conversation with author\, editor and screenwriter\, Jasmine Richards\, to discuss her work and career and to offer a glimpse into her creative routines. \nThis event is part of the SoA Awards wrap around series. \nAuthor\, actor and activist Cerrie Burnell has been announced as the keynote speaker for the Society of Authors’ Awards and Summer Party this June. Read the full news story on our website here. \n  \n#SoAatHome in conversation events – free for all + donation \nOur #SoAatHome How I Write in conversation events are free for all but with a donation option when registering for the event. All donations made go towards the Society of Authors’ Access Fund. The fund is to help provide authors with 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  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Jasmine Richards (3 mins)\nIntroductions to Cerrie Burnell\, and a glimpse into her creative routine (15-20 mins) \nCerrie will do a short reading from her latest book\, The Princess and the Thief (2-3 mins) \nQ&A with audience (10-15 mins) \nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Rose Hensher – Grants and Prizes Administrator\, SoA\n\n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email RHensher@societyofauthors.org with ‘Cerrie Burnell – Question’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\nCerrie Burnell\nCerrie Burnell is an author\, actor and ambassador best known for work on CBeebies\, a role which has earned her critical recognition and a devoted fan base. During her time on CBeebies she has broken down barriers\, challenged stereotypes and overcome discrimination to become one of the most visible disabled presenters on kids T.V. \nCerrie is the author of 15 children’s books including Snowflakes\, which she adapted for the stage with Oxford Playhouse in 2016\, and the Harper series\, which was a World Book Day title in 2016. She also created her one woman show\, The Magical Playroom\, which premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2013. \nSince leaving CBeebies\, Cerrie has appeared in the BBC continuing drama Doctors and made the eye-opening documentary Silenced for the BBC . Her nonfiction book I Am Not A Label was an Amazon US twenty best children’s nonfiction book of 2020 and was the over all Children’s Choice winner of the SLA Information Book A2021. \nWilder Than Midnight was the Booksellers Association Indie Book of the Month\, and Blackwell’s Book of the Month for May 2022 and has been shortlisted for the first ever Adrien Prize and Sheffield Children’s Book Award. \nCerrie recently worked for the BBC behind the scenes as their ambassador for disability with the creative diversity unit. She is currently dreaming up new ideas and drinking mint hot chocolate. \nInstagram: @Cerrie.Burnell | TikTok: @cerrieburnellbooks \n  \nJasmine Richards\nJasmine Richards is an award-winning author\, editor\, screenwriter\, speaker and founder of Storymix\, a fiction studio dedicated to inclusive children’s storytelling. She has created over 25 books for children and teens\, and her work through Storymix has sold more than 500\,000 copies worldwide. She is based in Hertfordshire. \nWebsite: www.jasminerichards.com www.storymix.co.uk | Instagram: @writeonauthor | LinkedIn: jasmine-richards | X: @jrichardsauthor \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Webinar; you will not be visible on screen but will be able to ask questions via the Q&A function or interact via the chat box\nThis event will be recorded but you won’t be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 45 minutes\n\nAfter the event \n\nHashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nYou’ll be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel\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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/how-i-write-in-conversation-with-cerrie-burnell/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,SoA Awards,SoA Awards wraparound ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/How-I-write_in-conversation-with-Cerrie-Burnell.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260522T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260522T114500 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T091009Z UID:10002091-1779447600-1779450300@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Feel Good Friday - Mindfulness for those with busy minds or busy lives DESCRIPTION:This short session is designed for people who want to master mindfulness but find it difficult to find the time to meditate. \nIt’s based on a 6-week course originally developed for the Plum village order of Zen Buddhists (based on the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh). The course aimed to make mindfulness accessible for people with Neurodivergency challenges but it turned out that many other people also found it extremely helpful.  It was realised that for some people\, determination to master mindfulness had not worked no matter how much time and effort was put into it. Their brain was just not playing fair with them and it was necessary to find ways to make it easier to access. \nSo\, this approach is ideal for people who want to enhance their lives but find it difficult to sit down and meditate for twenty minutes or more a day. \n  \n#SoAatHome Feel Good Friday events – free for SoA Members \nAll #SoAatHome Feel Good Friday sessions continue to be free for members. However\, for non-members\, the price is £35 including VAT. \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome and introductions from Lilly Brend-Fish – Events and Engagement Manager\, SoA (3 mins)\nWorkshop led by Sylvia Clare (30 mins)\nQ&A with audience (10 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n  \nWhat will this session cover?\nThis session will show you: \n\nHow to master the brief mindfulness moments that occur naturally\nHow to maintain a regular practice without finding extra time in your already busy life\nHow to anchor your emotional stability in the breath\nLearn self-compassion and how to extend it towards others\, letting go of unnecessary tension.\n\n  \nWho is this session for?\nAimed at people who want to master a mindfulness practice but find long periods are impractical for various reasons\, e.g. busy lives\, neurodivergency challenges \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email Lbrendfish@societyofauthors.org with ‘Mindfulness for busy minds or busy lives’ in the subject header. \n  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\nSylvia Clare\nI am a long-time mindfulness teacher and practitioner (over 30 yrs) who found the traditional ways of teaching mindfulness did little for me. But without it\, my life felt less than satisfactory. So I played with the teachings\, used my knowledge of brain plasticity and cognitive neuroscience and worked out ways that are applicable to anybody\, but are especially beneficial to those with Neurodigency challenges in life.  \nWebsite: www.clarity-books.com \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Meetings; you will have the option to turn your camera on or off; you will be muted on arrival\nThis event will be recorded and you may be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 45 minutes \n\nAfter the event \n\nThe hashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/feel-good-friday-mindfulness-for-those-with-busy-minds-or-busy-lives/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Feel-Good-Friday-–-Mindfulness-for-those-with-busy-minds-or-busy-lives.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260601T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260601T153000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T153023Z UID:10001965-1780322400-1780327800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Self-Publishers Network: How do you publish? DESCRIPTION:Join the Self-Publishers Network on Monday 1 June from 2pm for a member-led discussion on how we publish our work. We will consider questions such as: What services work for you and why? Do you have any platforms or formats you prefer? \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-how-do-you-publish-010626/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Self-Publishers Network ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Group-header-Self-publishing-cropped-.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260601T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260601T191500 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T092516Z UID:10002131-1780336800-1780341300@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Scriptwriters Group online social DESCRIPTION:This free\, evening event offers Society of Authors’ Scriptwriters Group (SWG) members the opportunity to meet informally with their committee and socialise with other SWG members online via Zoom\, in various breakout rooms hosted by the committee. \nWe’re here to represent you\, and we’d love to hear your concerns and views on all aspects of the world of Scriptwriting. Or just come along to meet people and talk about your current project. \nWe will start the event with general welcomes from the committee and will open the floor for any attendees who may wish to introduce themselves. Please note that this is fully optional. \nFind out more about the Scriptwriters Group\, here. \nThe event runs from 6-7.15pm. \n  \nYour breakout rooms – hosted by the Scriptwriters Committee\n\nJames Clarke (SWG) and Theo Jones (SoA SWG coordinator) | SoA Contracts Advisor Applying for public funding for scripted work/contracts advice\nImogen Church and Robin Mukherjee (SWG): Writing feature scripts specifically for television and/or film.\nRhiannon Tise and Ian Billings (SWG)Writing audio drama / Pitching/getting your script noticed\nSophia A Jackson (SoA SWG coordinator): Moderator\n\n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome | Rhiannon Tise\, Chair – Scriptwriters Group committee (5 minutes)\nMeet the Scriptwriters Group committee members (10 minutes)\nBreakout rooms hosted by the Scriptwriters Group committee members for informal chat\, networking\, and information sharing (30 minutes – two 15 minute sessions)\nReturn to main room where we will discuss: (30 minutes):– How can the Scriptwriters Group work better for you?\n\n–  Event ideas \n– How can we address challenges facing scriptwriters and advocate for better industry standards? \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email sjackson@societyofauthors.org  with ‘SWG Social’ 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 \nIan Billings\nIan is a children’s TV writer\, playwright and author of 23 children’s books. \nImogen Church \nImogen Church is an award-winning actor and scriptwriter\, ex-burlesque dancer and lover of satire. Her debut novel Death and the Burlesque Maiden was published by Audible Originals in 2021 and she wins lots of awards for narrating audiobooks like an absolute boss. She script writes satire and horror comedy features and audio plays. \nWebsite https://imogenchurch.com/ | Instagram: @imogenchurchgobshite \nJames Clarke\nJames Clarke has written and produced a number of short film projects. He has been longlisted in the BAFTA Best Short Film category. He is currently developing several scripts. James has been a Script Reader for the BFI and taught at London Film School. He currently contributes to the MA Feature Film Development course at Birmingham City University. \nInstagram: @jameswriter72 \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. His 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. \n  \nRhiannon Tise\nRhiannon Tise is an award-winning writer for theatre\, radio and television. She has written many originals and adaptations for BBC Radio 3 and 4 and her plays have been performed at theatres including the Royal National Theatre\, the Royal Court\, Soho Theatre\, the Finborough\, the Arcola Theatre and The Lyric Hammersmith. \nHer radio drama The Waltzer won the Richard Imison Award and recent adaptions include Louise May Alcott’s Little Women and George Eliot’s The Mill on The Floss\, which won the VLV Drama Award for best Radio Drama. Her short story Byres Road was recently broadcast on Radio 4\, produced by Sweettalk Productions and read by Sharon Small. She is a consultant Fellow for the Royal Literary Fund. \nWebsite: www.rhiannontise.com | Instagram:  @rhiannon_tisewriter \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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/scriptwriters-group-online-social/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Scriptwriters Group ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SWG-online-social.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260602T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260602T113000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T162751Z UID:10002005-1780394400-1780399800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Professional Development - How to ask for what you need: Gaining confidence to speak up while navigating barriers in publishing DESCRIPTION:The publishing process can make any author feel powerless. Many of us hesitate to ask for what we need or doubt our right to take up space. \nIn this Professional Development session with Lisa Christie\, a Chartered Coaching Psychologist\, we’ll explore practical tools to help us speak up\, confidently request what we need – including our legal right to reasonable adjustments – and keep the conversation centred\, so our voice\, our work\, and any access needs we have are fully respected and supported. \nYou can access the Society of Authors’ new Access Form here. The form is designed to provide support to disabled authors\, neurodivergent authors and authors with chronic health conditions by making it easier to request reasonable adjustments. \nThis event is in conjunction with our Authors with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses Network (ADCI) \nThis event will have BSL Interpretation provided by Ali Gordon and Tracey Tyer \n  \n#SoAatHome Professional Development events – free for SoA Members \nAll #SoAatHome Professional Development sessions continue to be free for members. However\, for non-members\, the price is £35 including VAT. \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome and introductions from Elsa Woodmeade – Local Groups Manager\, SoA (3 mins)\nPresentation by Lisa Christie (60 mins)\nComfort Break (5 mins)\nQ&A with audience (20 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n  \nWhat will this session cover?\n\nWhy authors might feel like we can’t speak up and why this isn’t our fault.\nTools to feel more confident raising and discussing our needs.\nHow to make requests constructively.\nHow to introduce using an access form (otherwise known as an access passport\, access rider or access document) to help convey core information and record agreed support.\nHow to raise concerns and have constructive follow-up conversations if our needs aren’t being met.\nWhere to seek support if we are still not being heard.\n\n  \nWho is this session for?\nAny author wanting extra tools to smooth the path to publication day and beyond. It will be particularly useful for disabled\, chronically ill\, and neurodivergent authors who need to discuss reasonable adjustments \n  \nAbout the Authors with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses Network (ADCI)\nThis 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. \nThe network’s 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. \nTo join or to take part in the specific activities below email us \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email EWoodmeade@societyofauthors.org with ‘How to ask for what you need’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\nLisa Christie\nA chartered coaching psychologist and neurodiversity specialist\, Lisa blends psychological insights with practical tools to help authors understand their brain\, challenge limiting beliefs and overcome procrastination\, perfectionism and overwhelm.  \nThis helps them to feel better equipped\, to view themselves with compassion and self-knowledge\, and feel more confident in their own voice and creative process. \nWebsite:  www.lisachristie.co.uk | Instagram: @lisachristiecoach | Facebook: Lisa Christie Coach  | LinkedIn: Lisa Christie CPsychol | Courses: Parent toolkit – ADHD\, Autism\, Dyslexia \n  \nNeed to know\nAccessibility \n\nAttendees will have the option to turn on the live transcript\, to watch with subtitles\nThis event will have BSL Interpretation provided by Ali Gordon & Tracey Tyer\n\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Webinar; you will not be visible on screen but will be able to ask questions via the Q&A function or interact via the chat box\nThis event will be recorded but you won’t be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 90 minutes \n\nAfter the event \n\nThe hashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/professional-development-how-to-ask-for-what-you-need-gaining-confidence-to-speak-up-while-navigating-barriers-in-publishing/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Authors with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses Network ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Professional-Development_How-to-ask-for-what-you-need.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260609T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260609T124500 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T094555Z UID:10002092-1781006400-1781009100@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Lunchtime learning - Why you should stand for the Board DESCRIPTION:Join this panel discussion to hear from current board members and learn more about why you should stand for election this year.\nThe 2026 Board nominations are now open. This is your chance to influence the strategic direction of your union.\n  \nWith four seats available\, this is your opportunity to add to the diversity of perspectives and influence the strategic direction of the Society of Authors over the next few years. \nElection to the Board is not based on literary merit. We welcome full members from all career stages\, backgrounds and from all four UK nations to consider standing. We aspire to a range of perspectives and experience among our board of directors that reflects the diversity of our broad membership\, so if you do not see yourself or your views already represented\, please consider standing. \nWe actively encourage nominations from under-represented groups\, including people of colour\, those from diverse communities\, people who identify as working-class\, disabled or LGBTQ+. We invite you to stand\, whatever your literary background or specialism\, but this year we are particularly looking for nominations from members with skills currently under-represented on the board\, which include finance\, fundraising\, governance or public relations. \nIf you want to find out more about standing for the board or how you can encourage fellow members to stand\, do join us for this panel discussion event. \nThis event is presented by the SoA’s Board. \n  \nNot a member\, sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20 per cent off for the first year of membership – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin (2 mins)\nDiscussion chaired by Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin with Anna Ganley\, Juliet McKenna\, Ian Giles\, Helen Epega and Polly Atkin (20 mins)\nQ&A with audience (20 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (3 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Elsa Robert – Executive Administrator\, SoA\n\n  \nWho is this session for?\nThis session is aimed at all members of the Society of Authors. \n  \nWhat will this session cover?\n\nWhy should full members stand for the SoA’s board?\nWhy should full members vote in the annual elections?\nHow can I stand?\nHow do I meet other members?\n\n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email ERobert@societyofauthors.org with ‘Why you should stand for the Board’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\n  \nVanessa Fox O’Loughlin\nVanessa Fox O’Loughlin is the founder of the multi-award-winning writing resources website Writing.ie\, The Inkwell Group publishing consultancy and the Murder One International Crime Writing Festival. She is Ireland’s leading literary scout. \nVanessa conceived and developed the National Emerging Writer Programme for Dublin City of Literature and was the lead consultant and presenter for Writers Web TV. Vanessa is the Chair of Irish PEN and writes crime as bestselling author Sam Blake. She is represented by Simon Trewin. \nInstagram: @samblakebooks | X: @samblakebooks | Website: https://www.samblakebooks.com \n  \nAnna Ganley\nAnna Ganley is Chief Executive of the Society of Authors – the UK’s largest trade union for writers\, illustrators and literary translators at all stages of their careers. We have been advising individuals and speaking out for the profession for more than a century www.societyofauthors.org. \nAnna is also Chair of the Creators’ Rights Alliance – a coalition that exists to promote\, protect and further the interests of creators through policy\, advocacy and campaigning work. Anna sits on the board of the International Authors Forum and 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. \nLinkedIn: Anna Ganley | Email: AGanley@societyofauthors.org   \n  \nJuliet McKenna\nJuliet McKenna is a Sci-Fi and Fantasy author and also writes historical crime fiction under the pseudonym JM Alvey. Juliet has been a long-term member of the SoA\, having joined in 1997 after she was offered her first publishing contract. \nJuliet originally worked as a bookseller in 1994 for Ottakar’s\, which gave her insight into the background of the book trade and would subsequently lead to her adapting her approach to writing. She has since published 21 novels\, through both mass-market and independent publishers\, as well as several novellas and short stories which have been featured in magazines and anthologies. \nJuliet was part of a who formed the EU VAT Action Campaign\, lobbying the UK government\, European Commission and the European parliament to ensure that authors reliant on e-book sales would not lose income following the new VAT regulations on digital sales\, introduced in 2014. \n  \nIan Giles\nIan Giles is a literary translator specialising in Scandinavian languages based in Edinburgh. He has translated more than 35 books across a wide range of genres and is Chair of the Translators Association. His work in translation has given him direct insight into the challenges of authorship in an evolving industry. Ian has experience of leading small membership organisations and brings a focus on practical skills development for authors\, including rights negotiation\, income diversification\, and working responsibly with technology. Ian has been active in promoting professional recognition for translators and authors alike and has ‘championed translators individually and collectively in the face of these same challenges’. \n  \nHelen Epega\nHelen Epega is a writer\, librettist and composer\, best known for creating Song Queen: A Pidgin Opera\, the world’s first opera in Pidgin English. Creating works as The Venus Bushfires\, she blends lyrical storytelling with African percussion and classical forms to explore identity\, cultural memory and accessibility. This year\, she wrote Of Earth and Quill\, a one-woman opera debuting at Tête à Tête: The Opera Festival. Her work has toured internationally and been featured by BBC\, CNN\, The Guardian and VICE Magazine. Helen is Chair of the Risk Committee and is committed to expanding the reach of inclusive\, cross-cultural storytelling. \n  \nPolly Atkin\nPolly Atkin is a poet\, nonfiction writer\, editor\, and bookseller based in Cumbria. Her writing includes biography\, memoirs\, and nature writing\, and she has been active in the literary and academic worlds for more than two decades. She co-owns a long-established independent bookshop and has organised and hosted arts events across the UK. Polly has taught literature and creative writing in schools and universities and has been an active member of the Society of Authors ADCI group for Disabled and Chronically Ill Authors since it was founded in 2020. She is particularly engaged with issues of accessibility and equity in the arts and has been a consistent advocate for disabled\, deaf\, and neurodivergent writers. \n  \nAbout the Society of Authors’ Board\nThe Board is responsible for the direction of the SoA and makes all major policy and strategy decisions. \nThe broader Management Committee is made up of up to 12 democratically elected full members who are unpaid volunteers. Voting members are directly elected by the Membership and each serve a term of three years. Read more about Management Committee elections. \nChairs of SoA groups whose membership makes up more than 5% of the total membership also sit on the Board but do not have a vote. \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Meetings; you will have the option to turn your camera on or off; you will be muted on arrival.\nThis event will be recorded\, and you may be on screen\nThis event is 45 minutes\n\nAfter the event \n\nHashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 – £15 \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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/lunchtime-learning-why-you-should-stand-for-the-board/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Lunchtime-learning_Why-you-should-stand-for-the-Board.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260629T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260629T130000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T075358Z UID:10002101-1782734400-1782738000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Lunchtime learning - AI & Authors DESCRIPTION:AI Policy & Authors: where we are now and predictions for the future\nThe Policy Team will be discussing recent key developments in AI policy including the Government’s response in March to the Consultation on AI & Copyright. \nWe’ll be considering:- \n\nThe Government’s current position on AI and copyright and its proposed next steps;\nHow the Government’s position affects authors\, including unresolved issues around proper regulation of tech companies\, transparency and licensing of authors’ works;\nLegal action which has been taken internationally and in the English courts; and\nThe SoA’s future plans to continue the fight to ensure that authors’ rights are recognised and protected.\n\n  \n#SoAatHome Lunchtime learning events – Free for SoA Members | £15 for Non-Members \nNot a member\, sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20 per cent off for the first year of membership – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome and introductions from (3 mins)\nDiscussion chaired by Harriet Evans\, Chair of the Policy & Campaigns Sub-committee (40 mins)\nLindsay Bennett Ford\, Joint Head of Policy and Public Affairs – The Government’s announcement on 18 March – what it means \, and what next for campaigning efforts.\nKeith Ashby\, General Counsel\, Joint Head of Policy and Public Affairs- Can legal action against tech companies play a role and what are the challenges?\nQ&A with audience (15 mins)\nSummary and closing comments – Harriet (2 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Ambre Morvan – Senior Policy and Public Affairs Manager and Contracts Advisor\, SoA\n\n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email publicaffairs@societyofauthors.org with ‘AI Policy & Authors session’ 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\n  \nHarriet Evans\nHarriet Evans is the author of 13 novels\, several of which have been Sunday Times bestsellers. Before becoming a full-time author\, she was an editor and publisher at Penguin Books and Hodder Headline. Harrie served on the Management Committee between 2022-2025. \n  \nLindsay Bennett Ford\nLindsay Bennett-Ford joined the SoA in September 2025 and leads on parliamentary and government engagement. She previously held policy\, public affairs\, and communications roles across the third sector and creative industries. \n  \nKeith Ashby\nKeith Ashby joined the SoA in 2024 and is General Counsel. He has over 25 years acting for clients in the creative industries\, including in relation to Intellectual Property matters. Keith also sits on the board of the British Copyright Council. \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. \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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/lunchtime-learning-ai-authors/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Lunchtime-learning_AI-and-Authors-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260630T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260630T113000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T151908Z UID:10002104-1782813600-1782819000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Professional Development - School visits with picture books: Working with young children DESCRIPTION:If you are a picture book author or illustrator looking to get started with school visits or you’re simply in need of fresh inspiration\, join Sarah Burton\, Abie Longstaff\, Sophy Henn and Clare Helen Welsh for this practical session. \nThey will discuss the structure and content of their events for pre-school\, reception\, Y1 & 2\, and what equipment they use to bring sessions to life. \nThis session is for children’s picture book authors and illustrators who are looking for structure and ideas for their school visits. It will cover pre-school through to Year 2. \n  \nThis event is in conjunction with our Children’s Writers and Illustrators Group (CWIG) \n#SoAatHome Professional Development events – free for SoA Members | £35 for Non-Members  \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nWhat will this session cover?\n\nHow to get school visits\nHow to structure your event\nTips for speaking to very young children\n\n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome and introductions from Sarah Burton – Deputy Chief Executive\, SoA (3 mins)\nPanel discussion with Abie Longstaff\, Sophy Henn and Clare Helen Welsh (60 mins) \nComfort Break (5 mins)\nQ&A with audience (20 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Hope Norman – Membership and Local Group Administrator\, SoA\n\n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email HNorman@societyofauthors.org with ‘School Visits with Picture Books’ 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\nSarah Burton\nSarah Burton is Deputy Chief Executive at the SoA and she leads the advisory service\, which provides members with unlimited professional advice. Working closely with the team\, Sarah supports authors by offering expert guidance on all aspects of the business of writing. As a coordinator of the Children’s Writers and Illustrators Group\, a special interest group within the SoA\, she has a particular interest in industry issues affecting creators of children’s books. \n  \nAbie Longstaff\nAbie Longstaff is a best-selling author of children’s fiction. Her picture books include The Fairytale Hairdresser (on Nickelodeon as ‘Sunny Day’) and the Before the Fairy Tale series. For older children\, she writes The Magic Potions Shop series and The Trapdoor Mysteries books. She also writes school readers for a range of educational publishers. \nAbie regularly appears at literary festivals and schools\, and gives mentoring and manuscript advice. \nInstagram: @abielongstaff | Bluesky: ‪@abielongstaff.bsky.social | Substack: Publishing Peptalk  \n  \nSophy Henn\nSophy Henn is an award-winning author/illustrator and the creator of the much loved Ted\, Pom Pom\, Bad Nana\, Pizazz and Happy Hills fiction series and the Lifesize non fiction series. She has been a World Book Day Illustrator for two years in a row and a World Book Day author/illustrator. \nInstagram: @sophyhenn \n  \nClare Helen Welsh\nClare Helen Welsh is a former teacher\, now award-winning children’s writer of over 70 books. She loves silly ideas\, big feelings and stories that sneak in learning disguised as fun. When she isn’t writing\, you might find her playing badminton\, painting\, walking her dog Hope or helping children and adults create their own stories. \nInstagram: @ClareHelenWelsh | Website: www.clarehelenwelsh.co.uk | LinkedIn: Clare Helen Welsh \n  \nAbout the Children’s Writers and Illustrators Group (CWIG)\nOur Children’s Writers and Illustrators Group (CWIG) is a professional community of writers and illustrators who create content for the children’s publishing market. \nWe campaign as a group on issues of specific relevance to us\, as well as raising the profile of children’s books more generally.  \nAn elected committee directs the work of the group\, and it is managed day to day by coordinators Sarah Burton and Hope Norman. Please see the CWIG committee page for details and deadlines for upcoming vacancies. \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. \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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/professional-development-school-visits-with-picture-books-working-with-young-children/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Children's Writers and Illustrators ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Professional-Development_School-visits-with-picture-books_working-with-young-children.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T120000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T141445Z UID:10002001-1783076400-1783080000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Feel Good Friday - Build your writing-friendly morning DESCRIPTION:Do you have good intentions of committing to a regular morning writing routine\, but find that all too often the time gets frittered away with news\, emails and other distractions? If so\, this workshop is for you. \nThere won’t be any 5am green tea cliches – it’s about how you want to start your days\, and how to get honest and intentional about making that a reality. \n  \n#SoAatHome Feel Good Friday events – free for SoA Members \nAll #SoAatHome Feel Good Friday sessions continue to be free for members. However\, for non-members\, the price is £35 including VAT. \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome and introductions from Lilly Brend-Fish – Events and Engagement Manager\, SoA (3 mins)\nWorkshop led by Emily Troscianko (45 mins)\nQ&A with audience (10 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n  \nWhat will this session cover?\nDuring this interactive session\, we will: \n\nReflect on the reasons why mornings matter (however early or late you wake up!)\nDiscover your ideal morning routine with the help of open-ended writing prompts\nCompare your current reality with the ideal\nSurvey a set of powerful habit-change principles\nGet creative about using those principles to bring the reality closer to the ideal (and protect what’s already good)\nReflect on any past efforts to make similar changes and what you can learn from them to help this time\nUse what you’ve learned to design a simple behavioural experiment that you’re excited to carry out\nAnd leave equipped with all you need to test out doing something differently and learn from what happens\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho is this session for?\nAnyone intrigued by the potential of their first-thing routines or who feels that their mornings lack direction or intention—or have too little writing in them! \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email Lbrendfish@societyofauthors.org with ‘Your writing-friendly morning’ in the subject header. \n  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\nEmily Troscianko\nEmily is a writer\, researcher\, and coach. She helps individuals navigate career change and recovery and build work-life habits that feel meaningful and alive. She runs the independent imprint Tamarisk Books and publishes in academic journals and experimental life-writing. Recent books include a consciousness textbook\, an ethics-tested recovery memoir\, and a children’s story about selfishness. \nWebsite: https://troscianko.com \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Meetings; you will have the option to turn your camera on or off; you will be muted on arrival\nThis event will be recorded and you may be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 60 minutes \n\nAfter the event \n\nThe hashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/feel-good-friday-build-your-writing-friendly-morning/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Feel-Good-Friday_Build-your-writing-friendly-morning.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260716T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260716T193000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260416T101312Z UID:10002093-1784224800-1784230200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Industry Insider – A collective noun for writers DESCRIPTION:Writing is often characterised as a solitary act but take a look at the acknowledgements page of any book and it’s clear that it takes a village. \nThis panel discussion brings together writers and book workers involved in a range of collective endeavours\, from building writing communities\, to organising as workers to improve labour conditions\, to the inspiring possibilities of collaborative writing projects. \nThis event is in conjunction with the Society of Authors in Scotland (SoAiS) \n  \n#SoAatHome Industry Insider events – free for all + donation \nOur #SoAatHome industry insider events are free for all but with a donation option when registering for the event. \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  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Tom Jeffreys (3 mins)\nPanel discussion chaired by Tom Jeffreys with Mai-Anh Vu Peterson\, Noreen Masud and Mohamed Tonsy (60 mins)\nComfort break (20 mins)\nQ&A with audience (20 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Lilly Brend-Fish – Events & Engagement Manager\, SoA\n\n  \nThe Line-up\nTom Jeffreys\nTom Jeffreys is a writer who lives in Edinburgh. His work is mostly creative non-fiction in response to art and place\, and he regularly collaborates with artists and cultural organisations.Tom’s books include: Walking: Documents of Contemporary Art (Whitechapel Gallery and The MIT Press\, 2024); To an island in a loch on an island in a loch\, with Kirsty Badenoch (Mouldy Books\, 2023); The White Birch: A Russian Reflection (Little\, Brown\, 2021); and Signal Failure: HS2 on Foot (Influx Press\, 2017).Tom’s writing has also appeared in publications such as Art Monthly\, ArtReview\, Country Walking\, Cricinfo\, e-flux\, Frieze\, The Guardian\, The Independent\, Monocle\, New Scientist and The World of Interiors. He is represented by Zoe Ross at United Agents.  \nInstagram: @tom__jeffreys | Website: https://www.tom-jeffreys.co.uk \n  \nMai-Anh Vu Peterson\nMai-Anh is an Edinburgh-based writer\, facilitator and community organiser\, whose work engages with storytelling at the intersection of identity\, migration\, grief and community. She has been active in community-building and organising spaces for several years\, with a focus on East and Southeast Asian communities in the UK. Her upcoming book\, examines how organisers can move past identity politics and anti-racism work that operates in isolation among different communities\, towards sustainable action and solidarity. \nWebsite: https://maianhvupeterson.ghost.io/ \n  \nNoreen Masud\nNoreen Masud is an Associate Professor in Creative and Critical Writing at the University of Bristol\, and an AHRC/BBC New Generation Thinker 2020. Her memoir-travelogue A Flat Place (2023) was shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction\, the Sunday Times Young Writer of the Year Award\, the Books Are My Bag Award\, the RSL Ondaatje Prize\, and the Jhalak Prize.  \nWebsite: https://www.noreenmasud.com/ \n  \nMohamed Tonsy\nMohamed Tonsy is an Egyptian writer and ceramicist. Their writing has appeared in Mizna\, Epoch Press\, won a Quarterly John Byrne Award and was Shortlisted for MFest’s 2021 Short Story Competition. In 2023\, Tonsy was the Jameel Ceramics Fellow at the V&A in London. Tonsy’s debut novel\, You Must Believe in Spring was published in 2022 by Hajar Press.  \n  \nWhat will this session cover?\n\nThe joys of writing collaboratively\nThe role of trade unions such as the SoA in mobilising workers\nOrganising as communities and collectives\n\n  \nWho is this session for?\nThe session is for any writers\, illustrators and translators who are interested in discussing ways of writing and working together – across creative collaborations\, community organising and trade unions such as the SoA. \n  \nAbout Society of Authors in Scotland (SoAiS)\nMembers with a Scottish postcode are added to the group when they join the SoA. If you have not been added but would like to join this group\, please contact us. \nWe offer a varied calendar of activities organised by a committee of volunteers and staff coordinator Elsa Robert. Group activities are reported in the SoA’s quarterly magazine\, The Author. \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email ERobert@societyofauthors.org with ‘A collective noun for writers’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Webinar; you will not be visible on screen but will be able to ask questions via the Q&A function or interact via the chat box\nThis event will be recorded but you won’t be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 90 minutes\n\nAfter the event \n\nHashtags for this event: #SoAatHome \nYou’ll be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel\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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/industry-insider-a-collective-noun-for-writers/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Society of Authors in Scotland ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Industry-Insider_A-collective-noun-for-writers-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260903T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260903T203000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T095945Z UID:10001966-1788462000-1788467400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Self-Publishers Network: When to outsource and when to learn new skills DESCRIPTION:Join the Self-Publishers Network on Thursday 3 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/2025/02/Group-header-Self-publishing-cropped-.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260909T193000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T133259Z UID:10002040-1788978600-1788982200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:LGBTQ+ Network online meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the LGBTQ+ 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\n30 minutes – Whole group discussion on a theme. Send any theme suggestions to localgroups@societyofauthors.org. \n30 minutes – Genre-specific breakout rooms to chat with members in smaller groups about your experiences.\n\nWe look forward to seeing you there! \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/2023/11/38628b7a-cf6e-822b-d818-2a8e4882cfac-scaled.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260915T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260915T113000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T160717Z 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. \n  \n#SoAatHome Professional Development events – free for SoA Members \nAll #SoAatHome Professional Development sessions continue to be free for members. However\, for non-members\, the price is £35 including VAT. \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \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  \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\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho is this session for?\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  \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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \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  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Webinar; you will not be visible on screen but will be able to ask questions via the Q&A function or interact via the chat box\nThis event will be recorded but you won’t be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 90 minutes \n\nAfter the event \n\nThe hashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 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/Professional-Development_Book-marketing-on-TikTok_the-next-steps.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260925T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260925T114500 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T160659Z UID:10002071-1790334000-1790336700@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Feel Good Friday – Building resilience: Navigating rejection and knockbacks DESCRIPTION:You’ve written your book. You’ve researched agents. You’ve taken the leap and sent your query and then you wait. \nWhat happens next? For many\, it’s a polite reply “thank you\, but this isn’t right for us.” Sometimes you might not hear back at all. Both scenarios can sting\, and for some writers\, that rejection is enough to stop them sending their book out again. \nThis session hosted\, by confidence and resilience coach Kelly Weekes\, explores how you can move forward after a “no” without losing confidence or momentum. \n  \n#SoAatHome Feel Good Friday events – free for SoA Members \nAll #SoAatHome Feel Good Friday sessions are free for members. However\, for non-members\, the price is £35 including VAT. \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Lilly Brend-Fish – Events & Engagement Manager\, SoA (3 mins)\nPresentation by Kelly Weekes (30 mins)\nQ&A with audience (10 mins) \nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n  \nWhat will this session cover?\nWe’ll cover: \n\nWhy rejection can feel so painful (and why that feeling is normal)\nWhat to do in the short term after a knockback\nHow to avoid common negative spirals\nHow to reframe rejection and take important learnings\nHow to decide\, and plan\, what to do next\n\nWhile this session will mainly focus on resilience after an agent or publisher rejection\, the tools and strategies shared can be applied to other knockbacks you may face in your author career. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho is this session for?\nThis session is for authors who’ve experienced rejection or setbacks and want to rebuild their confidence and create a clear plan for moving forward. \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email Lbrendfish@societyofauthors.org with ‘Building resilience’ in the subject header. \n  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\nKelly Weekes\nKelly Weekes is an ICF-accredited confidence and resilience coach for authors. She has held senior marketing roles in publishing\, and now works directly with authors. She combines her industry knowledge with her coaching skills to help authors navigate the ups and downs of their careers.  \nWebsite: www.kellyweekes.co.uk | Instagram: @kelly_weekes \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Meetings; you will have the option to turn your camera on or off; you will be muted on arrival\nThis event will be recorded and you may be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 45 minutes \n\nAfter the event \n\nThe hashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/feel-good-friday-building-resilience-navigating-rejection-and-knockbacks/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Feel-Good-Friday_Building-author-resilience.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261006T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261006T120000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T160646Z UID:10001815-1791280800-1791288000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Professional Development - How to create a talk for schools DESCRIPTION:In this session\, experienced author\, teacher and actor Jo Cotterill will lead you through the jargon of primary and secondary school structures and explain how to create an event that inspires and excites while still being within your comfort zone. \nNumbers are strictly limited for this fully interactive workshop to allow enough time for all participants to explore their strengths and the themes of their book(s) through the exercises set. By the end of the session\, you should have a firm idea of the structure and content of your event\, along with a lot more confidence to deliver it! \nAttendees will be able to access a recording of the event afterwards and will also receive the presentation slides. \nPlaces for this event are very limited\, please email events@societyofauthors.org if you would like to be added to the waiting list. \n  \n#SoAatHome Professional Development events – this event is for members only and tickets are priced at £19.50. \nNot a member\, sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20 per cent off for the first year of membership – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme/What will this session cover\n\nWelcome\, housekeeping and introductions from Hope Norman – Membership and Local Groups Administrator\, SoA (3 mins)\n\nWorkshop programme hosted by Jo Cotterill:\n\nIntroductions from Jo Cotterill\n\nSchools\n\nKey stages\nYear groups\nTimetables\nSEND\n\nYou \n\nYour strengths\, interests and experience\nIdentifying events in your life you could talk about and how.\n\nYour book(s)\n\nAnalysis of the themes in your books\nYour comfort zones regarding social issues\nInteractive exercises linked with your book(s)\n \nComfort Break\n\nStructuring your event\n\nHow to stay on time and keep your audience engaged\nSoftware to use for presentation\n\n \n\n\n\nWhat next?\n\nTalks vs workshops\nPacing your day\nFees and contact with schools\nFinal thoughts\nSummary and closing comments \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho is this session for?\nChildren’s authors and illustrators who are new to school visits or would like help with developing a new event. \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email HNorman@societyofauthors.org with ‘How to create a talk for schools’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\nJo Cotterill\nJo Cotterill has published over fifty books for children since 2004 with multiple publishers including OUP\, Bloomsbury and Barrington Stoke. She writes for educational publishers as well as trade and regularly visits schools to deliver talks and workshops. Her previous careers in acting and teaching have given her extra confidence in public speaking\, and she particularly enjoys interactive story exercises with large numbers of children. She has spoken at festivals including Hay\, Edinburgh and Oxford\, and is a consultant with EmpathyLab. She is currently working on the fourth book in the series The Starlight Stables Gang with Penguin Random House. \nWebsite: jocotterill.com \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Meetings; you will be visible on screen and will be able to participate via the chat box or by unmuting yourself\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 120 minutes\n\nAfter the event \n\nHashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nThis event will be recorded. Please note the recording will only be shared with workshop participants.\n\n  \nBooking\nBook your place by using the registration below. If you’re unsure of your SoA ID\, please email info@societyofauthors.org. \nFor event or registration questions\, email events@societyofauthors.org. \nSoA Members – £19.50 \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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/professional-development-how-to-create-a-talk-for-schools-2/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Children's Writers and Illustrators ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Professional-Development_How-to-create-a-talk-for-schools-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261008T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261008T210000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T160627Z UID:10002072-1791486000-1791493200@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Write along DESCRIPTION:Join us for a relaxed evening of writing in good company hosted by Marlene Lowe\, Scottish Committee Member & owner of Ghost & Quill\, Scotland’s first horror-themed bookshop. Whether you’re deep into a manuscript\, tinkering with a short story\, or just need a reason to sit down and get words on the page\, this Write Along is your chance to carve out dedicated writing time alongside fellow authors. \nThe optional theme for this session is Liminal spaces. Transitions. The unsaid. The moment between one thing ending and another beginning. You’re welcome to write whatever you like\, but if you fancy a shared creative prompt\, take “The Space Between” in whatever direction calls to you — any genre\, any form. We’ll have a chance to discuss our interpretations in the networking session afterwards. \nPlease note that this event will not be recorded or shared afterwards.\n  \nThis event is in conjunction with the Society of Authors in Scotland (SoAiS) \n  \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year using the offer code: SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome and introductions from Elsa Robert – Executive Administrator\, SoA (2 mins)\nIntroductions and informal networking (15 mins)\nWrite along workshop led by Marlene Lowe (60 mins)\nComfort break (5 mins)\nWrite along workshop continues (25 mins)\nOptional summary and closing comments (15 mins)\nThis event will be moderated by Elsa Robert\, SoA\n\n  \nThe Line-up\nMarlene Lowe\nMarlene Lowe is the founder of The Emerald Agency\, a communications consultancy based in Aberdeen\, Scotland\, specialising in crisis and strategic communications for the organisations the big agencies overlooked. She is also the founder of Ghost & Quill\, Scotland’s first horror-themed online bookshop. She believes the best work happens at the edges. \n  \nWhat will this session cover?\nWe’ll kick off with introductions and informal networking — a chance to say hello\, share what you’re working on\, and settle in. \nThen we’ll write together in companionable silence for around 90 minutes. No pressure\, no critiquing — just the quiet motivation of knowing others are writing alongside you. \nAfterwards\, there’s another 15 minutes for those who’d like to stick around to chat\, share how the session went\, and connect with other writers. \n  \nWho is this session for?\nAll SoA members are welcome. Bring whatever you’re working on\, a notebook\, a laptop\, a cup of tea\, and yourself. \n  \nAbout Society of Authors in Scotland (SoAiS)\nMembers with a Scottish postcode are added to the group when they join the SoA. If you have not been added but would like to join this group\, please contact us. \nWe offer a varied calendar of activities organised by a committee of volunteers and staff coordinator Elsa Robert. Group activities are reported in the SoA’s quarterly magazine\, The Author. \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email ERobert@societyofauthors.org with ’Write along’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Meetings; you will be visible on screen and will be able to participate via the chat box or by unmuting yourself\nThis event is 120 minutes\n\nAfter the event \n\nHashtags for this event: #SoAatHome \nPlease note that this event will not be recorded\n\n  \nBooking\nThis event is for SoA members only. Book your place using the registration form below.  \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 Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/write-along/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome,Society of Authors in Scotland ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SoAiS-Write-along.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261013T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261013T113000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T160447Z UID:10002073-1791885600-1791891000@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Professional Development – The nuts and bolts of writing series fiction DESCRIPTION:Join Author Vaseem Khan as he leads this session covering the essentials of writing series fiction\, i.e. fiction that features returning characters and settings. \nWe will explore examples of brilliant series across different genres such as crime\, fantasy and romance\, and examine the key ingredients that make such fiction successful. The session will detail how to create narrative arcs that ‘grow’ your characters\, how to develop overarching themes\, and the elements of world-building that make readers consistently come back for more. We will also discuss what agents and editors are currently looking for in new series pitches. \n  \n#SoAatHome Professional Development events – free for SoA Members \nAll #SoAatHome Professional Development sessions continue to be free for members. However\, for non-members\, the price is £35 including VAT. \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Lilly Brend-Fish – Events & Engagement Manager\, SoA (3 mins)\nPresentation by Vaseem Khan (60 mins)\nComfort Break (5 mins)\nQ&A with audience (20 mins) \nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n  \nWhat will this session cover?\n\nWhat makes for brilliant series fiction\, across different genres? \nHow to create evolving narrative arcs for your characters\nHow to write self-contained plots in each series outing \nThe importance of overarching themes\nHow to create a world that readers want to revisit\nWhat do agents and editors want in series fiction?\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho is this session for?\nThis session is for authors currently writing or contemplating writing series or episodic fiction i.e. fiction with recurring characters and/or settings. \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email LBrendfish@societyofauthors.org with ‘Writing series fiction’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\nVaseem Khan\nVaseem Khan is the author of several award-winning crime series including the Baby Ganesh Agency novels\, set in modern Mumbai\, and the Malabar House historical series\, set in 1950s Bombay. His debut\, The Unexpected Inheritance of Inspector Chopra\, was selected by the Sunday Times as one of the 40 best crime novels published 2015-2020. Midnight at Malabar House\, the first Malabar House novel\, won the Crime Writers’ Association Historical Dagger. He is also the author of Quantum of Menace\, the first in a series featuring Q from the world of James Bond. \nWebsite: http://vaseemkhan.com | Instagram: @vaseemkhanwriter | X:@VaseemKhanUK \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Webinar; you will not be visible on screen but will be able to ask questions via the Q&A function or interact via the chat box\nThis event will be recorded but you won’t be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 90 minutes \n\nAfter the event \n\nThe hashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/professional-development-the-nuts-and-bolts-of-writing-series-fiction/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Professional-Development_The-nuts-and-bolts-of-writing-series-fiction.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261103T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261103T113000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T160543Z UID:10001951-1793700000-1793705400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Professional Development - Writing a synopsis DESCRIPTION:Join Olivia Chapman as she leads this 90-minute workshop sharing practical tips on how to write a synopsis for submission to an agent\, producer or for a competition. \nIn order to participate fully\, you will need to have a complete story (in whatever form) which you can talk about from start to finish. Although you do not need to be published to attend\, you do need to have a complete manuscript as the synopsis will include the full story you have written. \n  \n#SoAatHome Professional Development events – free for SoA Members \nAll #SoAatHome Professional Development sessions continue to be free for members. However\, for non-members\, the price is £35 including VAT. \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Lilly Brend-Fish – Events & Engagement Manager\, SoA (3 mins)\nPresentation by Olivia Chapman (60 mins)\nComfort break (5 mins)\nQ&A with audience 20 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n  \nWhat will this session cover?\nYou’ll learn how to structure your synopsis\, what to include and what to leave out\, and how to pick out the most important parts of your story. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho is this session for?\nThis workshop is intended for prose writers (both fiction and non-fiction) and scriptwriters. \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email Lbrendfish@societyofauthors.org with ‘Writing a synopsis’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\nLiv Chapman\nLiv Chapman is programmer and festival manager who’s worked with writers for over 20 years. She currently works with Hexham Book Festival\, Word Up North in Bradford and Cheltenham Festivals\, as well as the Society of Authors. \nWebsite: https://livchapman.co.uk/ \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Webinar; you will not be visible on screen but will be able to ask questions via the Q&A function or interact via the chat box\nThis event will be recorded but you won’t be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 90 minutes \n\nAfter the event \n\nThe hashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/professional-development-writing-a-synopsis/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Professional-Development_Writing-a-synopsis-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261201T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261201T113000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T103954Z UID:10001962-1796119200-1796124600@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Professional Development - Pitching workshop DESCRIPTION:Join Olivia Chapman as she leads this 90-minute online workshop teaching you how to talk about your work\, and how to pitch it to agents\, editors\, and producers. \nIn order to participate fully\, you will need to have a complete story / poetry collection (in whatever form) which you can discuss from start to finish. You will learn skills that can be transferred to any other story\, but to get the most out of the workshop\, it will be helpful to focus on a single story you can finesse. \nAlthough you do not need to be published to attend\, you do need to have a complete manuscript to be able to base your pitch on. \nPlaces are limited for this event\, so please do let us know if you are no longer able to join us after you’ve registered. \n  \n#SoAatHome Professional Development events – free for SoA Members \nAll #SoAatHome Professional Development sessions continue to be free for members. However\, for non-members\, the price is £35 including VAT. \nNot a member? sign up here with our special #SoAatHome offer and get 20% off for the first year – use code SOAATHOME20. \n  \nProgramme\n\nWelcome\, introductions and housekeeping from Lilly Brend-Fish – Events & Engagement Manager\, SoA (3 mins)\nWorkshop lead by Olivia Chapman (60 mins)\n\nPlease note that this will include a series of breakout rooms with other attendees where you will have the opportunity to practice your learnt pitching skills. \n\nComfort break (5 mins)\nQ&A with audience (20 mins)\nSummary and closing comments (2 mins)\n\n  \nWhat will this session cover?\n\nHow to put across the best of your story in the most engaging way possible\, whilst allowing your passion for your work to come across.\nHow to structure your pitch and talk confidently and clearly about the plot and genre.\nThere will be time to practise your pitch with other writers during the session if you wish.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho is this session for?\nThis workshop is intended for prose writers (both fiction and non-fiction) and scriptwriters. The content can be adapted for poetry but works best if your poetry collection is themed or can be pulled together to be discussed in broader terms than individual poems. \n  \nSend us your questions\nIf you would like to send questions in advance\, email Lbrendfish@societyofauthors.org with ‘Pitching workshop’ 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  \nSoA Fundraising Bookshop\nBrowse 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. \n  \nThe Line-up\nLiv Chapman\nLiv Chapman is programmer and festival manager who’s worked with writers for over 20 years. She currently works with Hexham Book Festival\, Word Up North in Bradford and Cheltenham Festivals\, as well as the Society of Authors. \nWebsite: https://livchapman.co.uk/ \n  \nNeed to know\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\nBefore the event \n\nOnce registered\, you will be sent a confirmation email with the Zoom link\nIf the confirmation email doesn’t arrive in your inbox\, please check your junk/spam email folder\nPlease add events@societyofauthors.org to your Safe Senders list so you receive our confirmation and reminder emails\n\nDuring the event \n\nThis online event will take place on Zoom Meetings; you will be visible on screen if you keep your camera on during the session. You will be able to ask your questions directly or put them in the Zoom chat.\nThis event will be recorded and you may be on screen\nAttendees have the option to turn on the live transcript\nThis event is 90 minutes \n\nAfter the event \n\nThe hashtag for this event: #SoAatHome\nSoA Members and paid attendees of this event will be able to catch the recording on our Vimeo channel (password protected) or members can access via the SoA website.\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 \n Accordion Title\n \n Accordion Content \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Not a member? Join the SoA today for FREE access to all our #SoAatHome events \n \n Access 20% off your first year of membership of the SoA with discount code SOAATHOME20  The Society of Authors is the UK’s biggest trade union for authors – representing more than 12\,000 writers\, illustrators\, translators and other creative practitioners.  Our subscription rate is just £137 per year (£97 concessionary) which equates to just under £12 per month (or £8 per month concessionary).  As an SoA member\, you’ll get:  Access to all our #SoAatHome events for free including the Professional Development sessions usually charged at £35 from Feb 2025 Access to all our Feel Good Friday and Industry Insider events which are usually charged £5 from Feb 2025 Access all #SoAatHome Vimeo professional development recordings so you can catch up in your own time Access Unlimited one-to-one professional advice Membership of our online and real-world professional networks and special interest groups A range of member-only discounts\, including books\, insurance and travel And much more ‘It was a surprisingly lovely way to meet fellow writers in a friendly\, warm surrounding perfectly hosted by the SoA staff. Thank you for all the introductions\, the welcome and the nourishment!’  – attendee from SoA in Person: Autumn New Members’ Party 2024  JOIN NOW  |  PRICING\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \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 URL:https://societyofauthors.org/event/professional-development-pitching-workshop/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:#SoAatHome ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Professional-Development_Pitching-workshop-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261202T120000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T155821Z UID:10001967-1796207400-1796212800@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:Self-Publishers Network: Where and how to advertise your self-published book DESCRIPTION:Join the Self-Publishers Network on Wednesday 2 December from 10.30am for a member-led discussion on where and how to advertise our work. We will consider questions such as: How do we advertise our work? Where is it effective (or not effective) to advertise self-published work?  \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-where-and-how-to-advertise-your-self-published-book-021226/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Self-Publishers Network ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Group-header-Self-publishing-cropped-.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20261210T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20261210T110000 DTSTAMP:20260519T102457 CREATED:20250108T090059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T141636Z UID:10002042-1796896800-1796900400@societyofauthors.org SUMMARY:LGBTQ+ Network online meet-up DESCRIPTION:Join the LGBTQ+ Network on Thursday 10 December from 10am for a member-led networking session. Come along and get to know your fellow authors! \nWe will go into small groups using breakout rooms on Zoom for you to meet members\, chat and share advice and experiences. We’ll run two rounds of rooms for around 15 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\n15 minutes – Breakout room to chat with members in smaller groups\n10 minutes – Catch up and remix the rooms\n15 minutes – Breakout room to chat with members in smaller groups\n10 minutes – Feed back to the main group\, closing chat\n\nWe look forward to seeing you there! \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-101226/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Underrepresented Writers Networks ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://societyofauthors.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/38628b7a-cf6e-822b-d818-2a8e4882cfac-scaled.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Local Groups":MAILTO:localgroups@societyofauthors.org END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR