Worcestershire Young Poet Laureate is an annual competition celebrating the voices of talented young poets from the county. Jointly run by Worcestershire Libraries, Severn Arts, and Public Health Worcestershire, the competition encourages young people to submit their poetry for the chance to perform at the prestigious Young Poet Laureate final at The Hive.

Around 100 young poets enter the competition each year.

2023 winner Caleb Simon reflects

“Worcestershire Libraries were instrumental in helping me connect with the community, they offered me spaces to perform, access to poetry workshops, and even introduced me to a broader audience than I ever could have reached on my own.”

Caleb’s role as Young Poet Laureate taught them invaluable life skills. They learned how to manage bookings, network effectively, and connect with others in the poetry world. “I’ve massively improved in performing, whether getting in front of a camera or on stage in ways I never thought possible! The competition has been a life-altering opportunity for me. It’s completely changed my perception of my own writing and all the possibilities available to me.”

With Worcestershire Libraries’ support, Caleb also benefitted from access to books, literary events, and mentorship opportunities.

Caleb’s standout moment was performing alongside Poet Laureate Simon Armitage at The Hive, as part of his 10-year tour celebrating public libraries across the UK. Over the year, Caleb also performed at Ledbury Poetry Festival and took part in workshops in Kidderminster and Malvern Libraries, where they shared poems on community and self-growth and contributed to Youth Mental Health Awareness, see video below:

Caleb combined their creative talents and the platform of YPL to send out a positive message to other young people who might be questioning themselves or facing challenging experiences on World Mental Health Day.

All libraries stock the Reading Well books, a collection recommended and endorsed by health experts, as well as by people living with the conditions, and the relatives and carers supporting them.

The Worcestershire Young Poet Laureate competition is more than just a poetry contest, it’s a platform for growth and self-expression. For Caleb, it has been an empowering experience, providing them with both professional and personal development.

The competition, run yearly, continues to inspire other young poets, offering them opportunities to perform, connect, and grow.

For more information visit our Young Poet Laureate webpage.