The rewards of nurturing talent

In 2019, Scottish Book Trust will mark its 21st anniversary and the 10th anniversary of the New Writers Awards. The national charity has supported more than 90 creative individuals through the New Writers Awards since 2009.

Every year, the New Writers Awards provide a selection of previously unpublished writers with financial support, to enable them to concentrate on developing their work, as well as professional guidance to help them move towards the publication of their first book or collection. Former awardees include Graeme Macrae Burnet, Catherine Simpson, Helen Sedgwick and Malachy Tallack.

Awardees receive a £2,000 cash award, to afford them time to focus on their work, as well as a tailored support package which can include mentoring from established writers and industry professionals, training, and the opportunity to showcase their work to publishers and agents. The awards also include a week-long retreat, which provides time, space and the freedom to create new work.

Since 2010, two Gaelic New Writers Awards places have been offered annually in association with the Gaelic Books Council.

Members of the public are invited to the New Writers Awards showcase on Thursday 24 January, 7:30pm at the Jam House, Edinburgh. Tickets are available from the venue or online at thejamhouse.com/edinburgh