About the Birmingham Poet Laureate and Birmingham Young Poet Laureate:
How often are the Birmingham Poet Laureate and Birmingham Young Poet Laureate appointed:
Both positions are now appointed every two years.
How do I apply to be Birmingham Poet Laureate or Birmingham Young Poet Laureate?
Applications are via online form on Writing West Midlands’ website. Applicants are asked to submit two short poems, one of which should reference Birmingham. Shortlisted applicants are invited to meet the selection panel to talk about their poetry and read their poems.
Do I need to live in Birmingham?
Applicants should live, work or study (at school, college or university) within the city boundaries. Applicants who are not in one of these categories, are not eligible.
Do I need to have been published to apply and are there any other restrictions?
Applicants do not need to have been published, although the selection panel will expect them to demonstrate an interest in poetry (as detailed in a short statement of application) and to write poetry that is both generally accessible and of a high quality.
What are the selection panel looking for in a new Birmingham Poet Laureate and Birmingham Young Poet Laureate?
The successful candidates will have an enthusiasm for poetry – both their own and other people’s. They will write poetry that can appeal to a broad range of readers and listeners. They will be happy to write commissions (although no commissions are compulsory). Being happy to share work with audiences is an advantage.
For applications to the Birmingham Poet Laureate, we are particularly looking to hear of how their plans might help people engage with Birmingham’s public libraries.
What will I have to do if I am selected as Birmingham Poet Laureate or Birmingham Young Poet Laureate?
As the posts are both honorary (with no payment attached) the duties are not onerous. Typically, the Poets Laureate write a small number of poems each year as part of public occasions or in response to events or celebrations. Subject to funding being available, they may also run poetry workshops or be involved in other activities to encourage an interest in poetry.
How are the roles of Birmingham Poet Laureate and Birmingham Young Poet Laureate managed?
Writing West Midlands offers support to the Birmingham Poet Laureate, including in helping to shape a programme of activities across the two years and in helping to sustain and develop a creative writing career if appropriate. Birmingham Libraries offers support to the Birmingham Young Poet Laureate, including fielding requests for the appearances and commissions. The Young Poet Laureate will be given membership of Writing West Midlands’ Spark Young Writers programme, including a free place at a Spark Young Writers Group.
Will there be any restrictions on what I can do as Birmingham Poet Laureate or Birmingham Young Poet Laureate?
The posts exist to represent Birmingham and to encourage an interest in poetry. Although there are no formal restrictions, it is anticipated that the Poets Laureate will make a positive contribution to the cultural life of the city.
Will I receive any payment for being Birmingham Poet Laureate or Birmingham Young Poet Laureate?
Both posts are honorary and voluntary with no payment attached for the modest demands placed upon the post-holders. It is not anticipated that the role would, for instance, impact negatively on the Young Poet Laureate’s school work or on the Poet Laureate’s other professional commitments. However, reasonable expenses will be paid and whenever possible funds will be sought to provide fees for particularly demanding commissions or other work associated with the roles.