Staffordshire County Council is launching a search for its next Poet Laureate and Young Poet Laureate. The two prestigious roles offer successful candidates the chance to become ambassadors for Stafford and the wider county, creating new poetry, performing at events and promoting the art form across the region.
The Poet Laureate position is a two-year role for an experienced poet, while the Young Poet Laureate role welcomes up-and-coming talent. A key part of the job involves mentoring – the main Poet Laureate will work closely with the young winner to pass on expertise and help nurture the next generation of creative voices in Stafford.
Outgoing Poet Laureate Scarlett Ward highlighted the rewards of the mentoring element, describing how much she valued watching young writers develop their craft one-on-one. Pearl Knight-Dutton, the current Young Poet Laureate, said the role had helped her discover Staffordshire's unique culture and boosted her confidence as a writer.
Interested poets can request an application pack by emailing [email protected]. The deadline for the main Poet Laureate role is 7 August, while applications for the Young Poet Laureate position close on 21 August. This is the opportunity for Stafford's creative community to take on a role that celebrates and promotes poetry across the county.