NEW FREQUENCIES – Call For Submissions From Sweet Talk Productions DEADLINE 13th JUNE 2022
BBC Radio 4 has commissioned us to make three 15-minute radio programmes showcasing the work of writers between the ages of 16 and 21. We are looking for original short stories of either: a) 450-550 words or b) 900-1100 words. Please ensure that your submission conforms to one or other of these categories. (This will make it easier to fit multiple stories into each programme.)
Initially, we will be dividing submissions into Group A (For ages 16-18) and Group B (Ages 19-21).
Please read and follow carefully the submission guidelines below.
This is a ‘call for submissions’, not a formal writing competition. By which we mean we will be looking to pick and combine stories from a range of ages we think will make varied and entertaining radio. Quality is important to us, but we will not be making ‘official’ judgments about the ‘best’ story.
Each broadcast story will be read by a single reader, but beyond that, please don’t overthink the ‘radio’ part (that’s our job.). Storytelling is what we’re after, written as well as you can.
As to what story you tell, it’s up to you …
Good luck!
Submission Guidelines
1. Eligibility:
a) You are eligible to submit if you are between the ages16 and 21 on 31 August 2022. Your age on that date will determine whether you should submit to Group A (16-18) or Group B (19-21).
b) This is a series for new voices, i.e. for writers who have neither previously published a book or stand-alone publication nor had their work broadcast on national radio. Please do not submit a story that has previously appeared online or in print, or has been recorded/filmed for YouTube, Soundcloud or similar platforms.
2. Only submit one story, please.
3. Your story should be between 450-550 words or 900-1100 words in length.
4. Please put your full contact details (name, post and email address, phone number) and a word count on the title page of your story, indicating whether you are submitting for Group A or Group B. Please don’t put your name in the ‘body’ of the story.
5. The BBC will have exclusivity on stories scheduled for transmission until first broadcast, after which print copyright reverts to the writer.
6. We cannot offer feedback on your work or enter into correspondence about your entry.
7. We reserve the right to amend our guidelines as deemed necessary or where circumstances are beyond our control. We will post any changes on the Sweet Talk Productions website and by email where possible/if appropriate.