Applications open for London Writers Awards 2025

Applications to the London Writers Awards are open from midday on Wednesday 25 September to 5pm on Thursday 31 October.

There will be a free online information session on Tuesday 1 October, 7pm-8pm. Sign up for it here.

The London Writers Awards Application Pack gives details on eligibility, bursaries, access, FAQs and terms and conditions.

Please click here to download the Application Pack in text pdf format.

You can also view it here:

Please visit this page to access the Application Pack information in BSL video and Audio:

https://www.spreadtheword.org.uk/london-writers-awards-application-pack-in-bsl

Please click here to download the inclusive read version of the Application Pack.

To help you prepare you application we have created a drafting document with the questions we ask and additional information. Please click here to download the drafting document.

How to apply to the London Writers Awards

There are 3 options on how to apply for the programme:

1. Online Application Form via Submittable (text only)
2. Online Application Form for Audio or Video Submissions via Submittable
3. Paper Form for Postal Entry (large print)

Please note that the Submittable options will be live from midday on Wednesday 25 September.

For Option 1, we ask that you apply via Submittable for the genre you are writing in:

Commercial Fiction: https://spreadtheword.submittable.com/submit/303564/london-writers-awards-2025-commercial-fiction

Literary Fiction: https://spreadtheword.submittable.com/submit/303563/london-writers-awards-2025-literary-fiction

YA/Children’s Fiction: https://spreadtheword.submittable.com/submit/303565/london-writers-awards-2025-ya-childrens-fiction

For Option 2, there is one form on Submittable, where you choose the genre group:

https://spreadtheword.submittable.com/submit/203524/london-writers-awards-2025-audio-or-video-submission

Please note that the extract from your project must still be uploaded as a text file.

For Option 3, you can download the Postal Entry Form by clicking here.

Please post your entry to:

London Writers Awards
Spread the Word,
The Albany,
Douglas Way,
London
SE8 4AG

Please ensure that you post it so we receive it before the deadline of 5pm on Thursday 31 October.

Late entries will not be considered. After you apply for the London Writers Awards, you will receive an automatic email confirming receipt of your application. Your application will be read anonymously by a team of first readers who will make recommendations to the London Writers Awards judges and the Spread the Word team.

A shortlist of applicants will be invited to an interview with the Spread the Word team on one of the following dates:

Tuesday 21 January 2025 – Literary Fiction A and YA/Children’s Fiction interviews
Wednesday 22 January 2025 – Literary Fiction B interviews
Thursday 23 January 2025 – Commercial Fiction Interviews

Spread the Word will contact everyone who submits an application by 9 January.

Want to get in touch?
If you have read all of the application pack and links and you still have a question about the London Writers Awards that isn’t answered in them, please contact [email protected].

Published: 23 September 2024