The UK literary sector continues to reflect deep inequalities in whose stories are published, celebrated and heard. Writers from the Global Majority, LGBTQ+ communities, working-class backgrounds, Disabled and neurodivergent communities, and women over 50 remain underrepresented in publishing and literary culture. These structural barriers limit whose experiences are shared, leaving the literary landscape less inclusive and less representative of the society we live in.

NWS exists to widen who gets to write, publish and be heard. We provide sustained support for writers from communities underrepresented in publishing and literary culture, helping them develop their craft, build confidence in their voice and navigate the publishing landscape. Through bursary places, year-round writer development and ongoing support for The Coast is Queer and Forthwrite Festival, we enable writers to deepen their practice, develop new work and connect with a community of writers.