The Wee Gaitherin Poetry Festival 2024
We believe poetry, at it’s best, sticks to its roots - marking the events, histories, the lives of ordinary folk; and that people should be able to engage in or write poetry no matter their background or circumstances. Our festival differs from others because we open our doors to provide an opportunity for every poet who has something meaningful to say. Our events are free - encouraging people to take part regardless of income. After three successful years, we remain committed to our principles and to expanding our reach, especially to young and working-class poets.
This year, as well as augmenting our Young People's workshop programme, we are financing two bursaries in the name of the late and great Sheila Templeton aimed exclusively at disadvantaged writers. We are also keen to continue to contributing to the accommodation and travelling expenses of all poets journeying to The Wee Gaitherin.
All this takes money. The Wee Gaitherin is a small charity relying solely on goodwill, individual donations, awards from trusts, local funding bodies and, more recently, funding through some local business sponsorship, which we are delighted to have received. So, the charity and the festival exist pretty much hand to mouth. For that reason we’d welcome any contributions to this crowdfunder, no matter how small. Every penny will find its way to running our local community engagement activities and to supporting poets performing at Wee Gaitherin events. Please help us to continue supporting the democracy of poetry for all.