About the Professional Development Day
Benefit from a wide-ranging wealth of experience, as our four experts help you to overcome problems standing between you, and writing for a living – including how to fund your projects as well as how to handle the funds when you have them – and how to ensure you use your time wisely.

Unlocking your Creativity with Roger Robinson
Start your day with a talk from writer and performer Roger Robinson, who will help you to unlock your creativity. Recognise your own creative habits and feel inspired to approach your art in new and productive ways. Explore ways to beat a creative slump, and learn how to get the best from yourself.

Tax Planning for Authors with Barry Kernon
Your afternoon begins with a talk from creative industries tax consultant Barry Kernon on tax planning for authors – one of the main challenges facing those working in creative industries. Receive basic, practical guidance on tax planning, record keeping, expenses to claim spreading and averaging income, and how to handle dealings with HM Revenue and Customs. There will be guidance on how to protect yourself from the new HMRC penalty regime. The talk will be run on a question and answer basis and following the talk there will be the chance to explain your needs to Barry, on an individual basis.

Grants and Arts Funding with John Prebble
Next, get to grips with the often confusing world of grants with help from John Prebble, former Relationship Manager for Literature at Arts Council England. He will talk you through the Arts Council England’s Grants for the Arts programme, along with other potential funding routes, and will give you valuable insight from a funder’s perspective. Understand how to hone your applications and make successful funding bids.

Crowdfunding with Melanie Gow
Round off your day with a guide to the art of crowdfunding. Published author and crowdfunded publisher Melanie Gow will lead you through the art of inspiring others to help you realise your dream. From defining your creative vision, to learning how to ask with integrity, explore the increasingly popular world of crowdfunding and the ways that you can achieve your goals through the generosity of others.

This is a great opportunity to gather a wealth of information from experts, to help you take your writing to a professional level. From learning how to handle your finances, to considering the best sources of income to support your projects, and the right ways to keep yourself motivated to ensure that work remains on track and successful. 

For more information and to book your place