Square Peg Stories - an opportunity for writers with autism

Yes - a fantastic opportunity that has been created especially for people with autism spectrum condition who like writing. That might be you, or maybe someone you know, and whatever the case let's help to spread the word so that as many people hear about it as possible and take part.

The scheme is organised by Mainspring Arts which was founded in in 2015 by Katya Balen and Miranda Prag because they were frustrated by the lack of diversity in the arts; for example, non-disabled actors or writers frequently assume the roles or voices of people with disabilities. They think those people should be able to tell their own stories, and devised Mainspring Arts to help them do it.

Miranda of mainspring Arts, promoting the scheme

There are brilliant distinguished writers working with them on the project, among them poet, Joanne Limburg and prize-winning novelist, David Mitchell, author of, among other books, the Booker shortlisted Cloud Atlas. He says: I asked to be involved in the project because I believe in the importance of changing public attitudes to autism, and dispelling ignorance about autism. What better way to prove that people with autism experience emotions and possess imaginations than showcasing their writing?

They are on Twitter @mainspring_arts


and Facebook - Like their page!


But mainly - tell everyone you know of who might like to apply. You can tell this is a fantastic idea  because even if you began by wondering if it was really for you, one look at the Mainspring Arts dog and you would be convinced in a flash. (He appears on their Facebook page.)