Spread the Word, a prominent UK literature development agency, has announced the relaunch of its London Writers Awards for 2025-2027, per publishersweekly.com. Founded by Booker Prize-winning author Bernardine Evaristo and Ruth Borthwick in 1995, the programme seeks to enhance representation in publishing by supporting writers from underrepresented communities.
Since its inception in 2018, the Awards have successfully aided 120 writers, with 50 securing literary agents and over 35 book deals. Ruth Harrison, director of Spread the Word, emphasised the need for renewed support, stating, “The progress made in 2020 to support writers from diverse backgrounds has stalled.”
The revamped programme will select 24 writers annually, providing them with masterclasses, industry days, and critical feedback groups. Applications will open on September 25, 2024, with a distinguished panel of judges including authors Nilesha Chauvet, Oisín McKenna, Jyoti Patel and Tọlá Okogwu.
In addition to the Awards, Spread the Word continues its Free Reads scheme, offering professional editorial feedback to writers on low incomes. This initiative particularly encourages submissions from disabled writers, writers of colour and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to fostering diverse voices in literature.
