Poets in Stone are being encouraged to consider applying for two Staffordshire poetry roles.
The search has opened for the next Staffordshire Poet Laureate and Staffordshire Young Poet Laureate, with both posts aimed at supporting creativity, encouraging people to engage with poetry and raising the profile of writing across the county.
The Staffordshire Poet Laureate is a two-year role, running from 2026 to 2028. The successful applicant will act as an ambassador for poetry in Staffordshire, creating new work, performing at events, supporting local initiatives and mentoring the Young Poet Laureate.
The Staffordshire Young Poet Laureate is a one-year role, running from 2026 to 2027, giving a young writer the chance to develop their voice, build confidence and inspire other young people to explore poetry.
Hayley Coles, Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council, said
“These two roles are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate creativity and support talented poets across Staffordshire.
“Our libraries remain at the heart of our communities, and through initiatives like this we can inspire people of all ages to explore poetry, express themselves and connect with others. I would encourage anyone with a passion for poetry to apply and be part of shaping Staffordshire’s cultural future.”
Scarlett Ward, the outgoing Staffordshire Poet Laureate, said
“The moments I have enjoyed most have been working with the young writers in the community and mentoring the Young Poets Laureate.
“It’s been a real pleasure to work with both Harry and then Pearl and watch them develop their own craft and grow in confidence. I’ve loved the opportunity to work 1 on 1 on feedback and workshop sessions, and I wish them both all the best in their writing careers.”
Pearl Knight-Dutton, the outgoing Staffordshire Young Poet Laureate, said
“From working with libraries in the area, to reading out poetry at events, collaborating with the community around me has been a real highlight of the role. With Scarlett’s helpful advice, my poetry has found itself more of a style and has given me the knowledge that I need to keep on improving.
With this opportunity, I’ve really been able to explore more of Staffordshire’s culture through voices of so many different backgrounds, discovering what makes it the unique place that it is.”
Application packs for either role can be requested by emailing connectedlibraries@staffordshire.gov.uk.
The closing date for the Staffordshire Poet Laureate is Friday 7 August. Applications for the Staffordshire Young Poet Laureate close on Friday 21 August.
