Find support Resources Support for disabled writers In this resource you can find: Information about Shape’s disabled writer support TLC Free Reads Regional Partners Writer resources from TLC Funding for writers in the UK Access support for writers Our resource also provides some advice on obtaining access support, which is towards the bottom of the page. This resource primarily links writers to the opportunities and writer-focussed resources offered by The Literary Consultancy (TLC), who in turn offer signposting to other organisations and outlets that may be able to help you. Shape’s support for disabled writers As with many fields in the creative industries, disabled writers often find barriers to progress owing to the way things are organised and set up, and also where there is no apparent clear route or pathway to development. Each year, we support TLC’s Free Reads scheme, offering low income disabled writers based in England the chance to receive professional feedback on their work. There is a selection process for this, that follows an open call each summer, with the selected writers submitting samples of their work during the weeks following. Each selected writer receives a written report with notes which suggest ways to improve the work technically, or thoughts on reaching a wider or specific readership. Whilst not a guaranteed pipeline towards publication, writers often benefit from asking for advice on pitching the work to outlets or agencies that might take an interest in the work, and receive advice according to the nature of the question. Since 2024, the Free Reads offer has been combined with options for 1:1 support and editorial discussions with the TLC team. Applicants can indicate their interest in these areas when they submit their Free Reads form to us. TLC also offer an extensive mentoring programme to one writer per year, with the awardee historically being selected from the Free Reads pool of applicants. It is worth noting that TLC run all these services and more on a year round basis, including talks and events which benefit writers, with the main services provided on fees paid basis. For the Free Reads scheme and support package that we offer in conjunction with TLC, these same services are provided without fees for low income writers. Our usual launch date is in August each year, but you are welcome to contact us with queries at other times of the year by emailing [email protected]. TLC Regional Partners The Free Reads Scheme is currently delivered in partnership with over twenty writer-focussed organisations across England. It is the only Arts Council supported national bursary scheme for low-income and marginalised writers giving free access to professional editing services, supporting these authors with the development of their work. The regional organisations include those who support specific communities or people living in particular locations; their offers include residencies, writer retreat, bursary and workshop support in a variety of formats. Check out all the regional partners Writer resources developed by TLC Here at Shape we have explored the wealth of resources put together by TLC and we've shared with you our top picks below! How to Write a Synopsis TLC Director Aki Schilz guides you through how to write a synopsis. How to Submit to a Literary Agent Learn how to pitch your book to a literary agent, with this handy guide. How to Format a Manuscript Struggling with formatting? This useful template will show you how to format your manuscript. How to Give and Receive Feedback This is part two of a resource on writing groups, and focusses on how to give and receive peer feedback. Writing When Life Happens This guide offers advice for keeping going in times of stress and isolation as a writer. 42 Ways to Improve Your Writing TLC and guest authors share 42 pieces of advice, exploring different aspects of writing craft. Top Tips for Self Editing Fiction TLC's Top Ten Tips on self-editing your own writing. Is There Anybody Reading Me? TLC Founder Rebecca Swift’s free eBook exploring writers and the publishing industry. Explore all TLC's Resources Funding for UK-based Writers Across the UK there are organisations that can support you with funding for your writing. Below we have listed some funders to explore. Funding for UK Writers (includes Arts Council England) Creative Scotland Literature Wales Arts Council Wales Unlimited Penguin's list of writer funding and support Spread the Word (for writers based in London) Royal Literary Fund (for writers experiencing financial hardship) Access Support There may be various reasons why a disabled writer may require access support. It could be connected with support with communication, with administration and organising, with working with text and printed materials, among many others. For disabled people whose creative output (including writing) forms the basis of their income, or even a part of it, then some options include: Access to Work (check out our full resource on Access to Work) Access support with applications (eg grants and bursaries) and wider access budgets for the duration of projects Some opportunities might offer access support for individuals through their application process, in order to remove barriers for disabled creatives. You would need to contact the opportunity holder directly to find out if this is possible. Learn about Arts Council England's Access Support If you do not earn an income, then you will not be eligible for Access to Work, however there may be exceptions in the context of applying for a job or opportunity, for example support with attending an interview. Back to top Banner image description: On a pale blue-green background, the 'TLC Free Reads Partner' circular logo is slightly left of centre, with a line drawing in black of a hand writing on a page extending out from the logo to the right hand side of the image. Manage Cookie Preferences