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Supporting
writers
since 1790
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Grants Programme

About Grants

Unexpected setbacks, ill health or financial difficulties can happen to any writer, at any stage. This is why the RLF’s grants programme exists. Our hardship grants are funded by the legacies of writers who believed in supporting others like them.

We also know asking for help isn’t always easy. Our Grants team is here to guide you through the application process. We aim to make it as straightforward, respectful and supportive as possible.

The three types of grants we offer are designed to support writers through difficult periods, whether that means helping with everyday essentials like rent, utilities and groceries, or easing the additional costs that can come with long-term health conditions or unexpected financial strain.

Our Grants

A minimalist vector illustration of an open book with an orange cover and white pages. The book is shown from a side-angled perspective against a solid pink background, with simple black lines representing text on the page.

Back-To-Work

For writers who have experienced a temporary setback.

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A flat-style illustration of four colorful books standing upright against a soft orange-to-purple gradient background. The books vary in height and color (orange, red, yellow, and teal), with the leftmost orange book leaning slightly against the others.

Stability & Recovery

For writers whose ability to work has been impacted.

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A stylized stack of four books in red, orange, yellow, and black against a tan background. On top of the stack, an open book with white pages appears to be fluttering as if caught in a breeze.

Literary Contribution

For established writers who are no longer able to work.

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Not sure which grant is right for you? Answer a few quick questions and find out.

Answer Our Questionnaire

Beneficiary Stories

Hear how the RLF’s Grants have changed the lives of some of our previous beneficiaries.

Testimonials

Over a 20-year career, the RLF has bailed me out three times with grants, each time as I was going under, in serious debt, with rent arrears. I don’t think my literary career would have survived without this financial aid.

Monique Roffey

The RLF has been an absolute lifeline for me as long as I continue with my work as an author. I have no idea how I’d have been able to do so without your organisation’s incredible kindness, understanding, and assistance.

RLF Beneficiary

This has been such a tough time for so many. Most writers’ incomes have gone down this year. If this is you, and you’re struggling financially, please talk to the RLF – you could be eligible for one of their grants.

Jack Thorne

I turned to the RLF, and they supported me, not just financially. They encouraged me; they were a listening ear, almost like family.

RLF Beneficiary

A lot of unnecessary shame is attached to hardship, or seeking help. I really wrestled with my decision to apply to the RLF for a grant, despite how much I needed it. The RLF stepped up and helped me – beyond my expectations. Thank you for giving me back my pride as a writer.

Edward Hillyer

In these times where writers’ incomes have dropped to £7,000 per year on average, the Royal Literary Fund is an invaluable resource for authors who need a helping hand.

Malorie Blackman