The Writers Circle is a membership organisation based on the principle that writing is a cooperative effort. We read each other’s work, give feedback, organise workshops and provide creative and emotional support for our writers.

We believe no one should be prevented from pursuing their writing journey with us because they cannot afford it.  

The Writers Circle offers a limited number of discretionary free memberships. This means that you do not have to pay for:  

• annual membership
• fortnightly manuscript meetings
• monthly sub-groups meetings
• workshops
• competition entry

If you are experiencing financial difficulties please approach our treasurer through treasurer@leedswriterscircle.org. All correspondence will be strictly confidential.

You do not need to share details of your difficulties and there is no means test. The Circle works on the principles of trust and support. We believe anyone availing themselves of this benefit will ultimately repay the gesture by enriching our community and becoming a valued contributor to our lively sessions.

If one day your circumstances change, you are welcome to switch to a paid membership, enabling us to extend the benefit to new members in turn.

The identity of any discretionary member will only be known by the treasurer and never shared with the rest of the committee.

Once awarded, a discretionary membership entitles you to free membership for the Circle’s subscription period (September to August).

If you wish to re-apply for the next year, you should contact the treasurer in the August before the start of the new subscription period.

This committee reserves the right to limit or refuse free memberships to applicants if required, e.g. oversubscription etc. This will not affect those already awarded free membership for that current subscription period.

Anyone is welcome to come along for up to three manuscript meetings for free to see if this is the right group for you. Just turn up on the evening.