Welcome to our 2024–25 ‘Year in Review’, a snapshot of the work emerging from the National Centre for Writing and Norwich UNESCO City of Literature.
This is the story of the thousands of writers, participants, and visitors we’ve supported and welcomed this year, both in our expanded Literature House and through our ever-evolving digital platforms.
Norwich’s rich and collaborative ecology makes it a superb place to be a creative citizen. You’ll read how we play our part with communities of all ages, in our UNESCO City of Literature and beyond. For example, we:
- Worked with over 4,000 young people and 8,700 adults in participatory and learning activities.
- Welcomed 31 writers and translators in residence to our cottage, from 12 different countries, nurturing their confidence, networks, audiences and talent.
- Forged global conversation and knowledge exchange for creatives shaping the future of literature, via the International Literature Exchange.
- Delivered a UNESCO City of Literature strategy for Norwich, in conversation with 80+ civic, creative and community stakeholders.
- Welcoming writers, readers, communities, and tourists to Dragon Hall, creating an evolving Literature House that is fit for the future and open to all.
- Achieved ‘Place of Sanctuary’ status, recognising our commitment to inclusivity and support for people with refugee or asylum seeker status.
Support NCW’s future
Together, we can ensure writing and writers thrive, here in Norwich and beyond.
We nurture the next generation of creative writers and translators to discover new voices and stories, and empower people of all ages to create with words in the community, at home, in schools and at our Literature House.
Our vibrant events present diverse and inspiring writers, thinkers and artists across Norwich, the East of England and online.
You can make a donation below, thank you.
Help writing and writers thrive!
More ways to get involved
- Memberships – Discounts, exclusie news, offers and events.
- Corporate Partnerships – Align your business with events, community activities, book awards and more.
- Leaving a gift in your will – Lasting gifts for the next generation of readers and writers.
- Merchandise – Literary inspired tote bags, prints and more.
A vast array of writers, partnerships, supporters, funders, and commitment make our work possible. It takes a constellation to build this universe, and I take great pleasure in thanking every single star.
You may also like...
Poets in conversation: John Osborne & Lewis Buxton on performance, humour, and place
In this episode of The Writing Life Podcast, Norwich-based writers John Osborne and Lewis Buxton discuss writing poetry for page and performance.
12th January 2026
Community cookbook connects generations through food and storytelling
A new community cookbook, described as ‘part memoir, part how-to guide’, is being shared with care homes across the region to inspire older people to exchange stories of food, cooking, and connection.
17th December 2025
Ten Fellows announced for the Escalator New Writing Fellowships 2025–26
We’re delighted to announce the ten Fellows selected for the Escalator New Writing Fellowships 2025–26.
4th December 2025