Here in the Guild, we’re acutely aware of the sacrifices and compromises many of you make in order to pursue writing careers while juggling your caring responsibilities. So, with the valued support of Coimisiún na Meán we are delighted and proud to announce that we’ll be holding our very first ‘Carers and Parents Training Retreat’ on Wednesday 23rd September 2026 in the Hyatt Centric Hotel in Dublin’s Liberties.

This full-day event will include marketing advice, a session on emotional intelligence-based leadership and negotiation skills, confidence and executive coaching, and some gentle yoga. All of the sessions have been carefully designed to help members with caring and parental responsibilities build and maintain a career in the arts. Lunch and refreshments will be provided on the day.

Places are strictly limited to 10 members, so please register at your earliest opportunity by emailing [email protected] with the following information:

1. Tell us about your parental and/or caring responsibilities and why you feel you would benefit from this retreat (250 words max)

2. Given the option, would you want to avail of:

a) A carer’s stipend, or

b) On-site childcare

If b) please tell us

– the number of children

– their ages

– if they have any additional needs

Applications for this event will close at midday on Thursday 27th August.