Opening doors to great storytelling
Stories shape who we are, spark new conversations, and expand how we think.
When only certain voices get heard, we all lose out on perspectives that could deepen empathy, challenge assumptions, and offer new solutions to the problems we face.
London is one of the world’s most diverse cities, but our literary landscape does not reflect that richness. By supporting underrepresented writers, we are not just being fair, we are helping to make literature, publishing, and storytelling better for everyone.
London Writers Centre is a charity and Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation. London Writers Centre was founded as Spread the Word in 1995.
Our Vision
A world in which literature is accessible to everyone.
Our mission
To help underrepresented writers reach readers, and work with communities to find and share stories.
Our values
Kind – we nurture careers, connections and creativity for however long is needed
Brave – we take creative risks and speak out for equity
Open – we are excited by new ideas and working with people
Who we are here for
We are here for writers currently underrepresented in publishing:
- Black, Asian, or Global Majority (Black, Indigenous and people of colour)
- D/deaf and disabled
- LGBTQIA+
- Working class upbringing
- On a low income
It’s so heartwarming and encouraging to see the large number of people who have benefited from [London Writers Centre’s] activities and who have since gone on to enjoy successful careers as writers. This stellar organisation is as important now as it was when Ruth Borthwick and I co-founded it in 1995, with the aim to make British literature more inclusive of all voices.
Learn more about London Writers Centre
Explore our work and the impact it’s made, or learn more about our history and the people behind London Writers Centre.
