The NTA for Film & TV Drama, in partnership with Tilting the Lens, have announced the three writers selected for Screen Stories: Getting Disabled Writers in the Room 2026.

Now in its third year, Screen Stories supports Disabled writers to develop original live-action screenplay while building the skills, confidence, and industry connections needed for a career in screenwriting.

This year’s participants:

Cathy Heffernan – Originally from Dublin and now based in London, Cathy has spent more than two decades working across journalism and television. Her credits include Who Do You Think You Are?, Sort Your Life Out, and Rose Ayling-Ellis: Signs for Change. Alongside her work as a producer, director, and commissioner, Cathy writing explore how politics and social change shape everyday lives, balancing emotional truth with wit and humour.

Jennifer McShane – Journalist, writer, and disability advocate whose work has appeared in The Irish Times, British Vogue, Glamour UK, IMAGE Magazine, and more. Jennifer is passionate about increasing authentic Disabled representation on screen.

Óran O’Neill – Screenwriter and Audio Description Specialist whose work has helped make film and television more accessible for blind and partially sighted audiences. Following his first produced screenplay for Maddie and Triggs, Óran continues to develop his distinctive voice through Screen Stories.

Over the next five months, the writers will take part in mentoring, masterclasses, workshops, and professional development, culminating in a professionally produced table read of their original short film scripts.

https://www.nationaltalentacademies.ie/news/meet-the-writers-selected-for-screen-stories-2026