At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead creative writing workshops for individuals living with HIV, focusing on autobiographical storytelling.
- Company: Collaborative project between Edinburgh Playhouse and Waverly Care.
- Benefits: Freelance contract with competitive pay and travel cost contributions.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with potential for project extension based on funding.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact by helping others share their stories and celebrate life.
- Qualifications: Experience in creative writing and community engagement required.
The predicted salary is between 6300 - 6300 € per month.
We are engaging a freelance creative writer with experience of working in community settings to work with Edinburgh Playhouse & Waverly Care to deliver a 6 month long writing project named HIV ALOUD.
The Associate Artist will lead creative writing workshops that enable people living or have experience of HIV to explore creating their own autobiographical work with the focus on ‘living well’ and a celebration of life. The project will culminate in a sharing of work [funding dependant] created by the group; the form of this sharing will be decided by the Associate Artist in consultation with participants and the Creative Learning Producer & Waverly Care.
Responsibilities
- Report to the Creative Learning Producer at Edinburgh Playhouse and be responsible for the workshops and overall creative vision of HIV ALOUD: Raise the Curtain.
- Work closely with the Edinburgh Playhouse Team and Waverly Care Team.
- Facilitate sessions that aid the development, creative ideas and interests of participants.
- Collaborate with both organisations to ensure the project is accessible and supportive to a wide range of people living HIV; further advice & training on this will be provided.
- Work responsively, facilitating sessions that aid the development, creative ideas and interests of participants.
Funding & Contract
- Post is funded by The National Lottery community fund.
- Freelance fixed term 6 month contract from January - June 2026.
- Fee is £6,300 (35 days @£180) plus an additional contribution to any travel costs outside of Edinburgh.
- Fee is based on a 7 hour day which includes 2 hour workshop per day, 1 hour set up time, 1 hour prep time, 3 hours Admin and editing time.
- The project must run between January 2026 and June 2026 over 35 days. These 35 days will include workshops, as well as planning time and attending meetings.
- Applicants must have availability to complete the project in this timeline. The workshops timetable will be decided in conversation between the Associate Artist and Creative Learning Producer.
- Dependant on further funding this contract may be extended for the showcase of the project. This role is subject to PVG check.
Application Requirements
- A CV (max 2 A4 pages): you may want to include details of any work you’ve undertaken.
- A covering letter (max 1 A4 page) that includes the skills and experience you will bring.
- An example of a creative writing work (max 1 A4 page) an example of writing and/or a project you’ve worked on.
Closing date: 3rd November 10am. Interviews: WC 17th November. The deadline is Monday 03 November 2025 at 10:00.
Associate Artist (creative writer) employer: Creative Scotland
Edinburgh Playhouse is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, particularly for those passionate about community engagement and the arts. As an Associate Artist, you will have the unique opportunity to lead transformative creative writing workshops, empowering individuals living with HIV to share their stories and celebrate life. With a commitment to professional growth and collaboration, this role not only offers meaningful work but also the chance to make a lasting impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Artist (creative writer)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisations you're applying to! Research Edinburgh Playhouse and Waverly Care, their missions, and past projects. This will help you tailor your approach and show them you’re genuinely interested in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry or those who have worked with these organisations before. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and maybe even a recommendation!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can facilitate workshops that resonate with participants. Have some creative ideas ready to share that align with the project’s focus on ‘living well’.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing applicants who take the time to follow the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Artist (creative writer)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Keep it concise and relevant, highlighting your experience in community settings and any creative writing projects you've led. Remember, we want to see how you can bring your unique flair to the role!
Personalise Your Cover Letter:This is your chance to shine! Tailor your cover letter to reflect your passion for the project and how your skills align with our vision for HIV ALOUD. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm, so let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Writing Skills:When submitting your writing sample, choose something that truly represents your style and creativity. We’re looking for pieces that resonate with the theme of ‘living well’ and celebrate life, so pick wisely!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Creative Scotland
✨Know Your Project Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the HIV ALOUD project. Familiarise yourself with its goals, the communities it serves, and how your role as an Associate Artist fits into the bigger picture. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to the project.
✨Showcase Your Creative Process
Be prepared to discuss your creative writing process and how you plan to facilitate workshops. Share specific examples of past projects where you've successfully engaged participants in community settings. This will demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire others.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Highlight your experience working collaboratively with different teams, especially in community-focused environments. Discuss how you would work with both the Edinburgh Playhouse and Waverly Care teams to ensure the project is accessible and supportive for all participants.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask about the project and the teams involved. This shows that you're not only interested in the role but also invested in the success of the project and the people it aims to support.
