What is CHARM?

CHARM is Goldfinch’s monthly writing group, a pay‑what‑you‑can creative writing lab – a regular, structured space where writers of all levels actually write, share work in progress, and grow together. All are welcome, from people who’ve never shared before to published authors. We’ll move through different forms over time.

CHARM is rooted in Goldfinch’s values: inclusive, anti‑prejudice, kind and supportive. It’s not a critique gauntlet and it’s not just chatting about writing – you’ll leave having written something new, or after hearing some new writing, and some people will get focused, constructive feedback on their work.

CHARM meets monthly on the last Thursday of the month, 7.00–9.00pm. Pay‑what‑you‑can on the night (suggested £3–£5 but no one will be turned away for lack of funds).

What happens each month?

Each CHARM session follows the same four‑part structure:

1. Welcome (10 mins) 7:00pm til 7:10pm

Quick introductions and a reminder of our values and ground rules.

2. Spark (30 mins) 7:10pm til 7:40pm

The ‘Spark’ is the inspiration for the month’s session - something to guide the session. This will take the form of a short talk with examples and then a guided exercise or a round-table discussion on the theme. The Spark is led by one of the Goldfinch team, a volunteer or an invited guest. They don’t have to be writing experts – they’re there to introduce ideas and texts that might nudge your writing somewhere interesting.

3. Writing Lab (60 mins) 7:40pm til 8:40pm

This is the heart of the evening.

• 20–25 minutes of silent writing in the room, using the Spark as a starting point.

• Then we break into small groups (3–4 people). In each group, one pre‑booked writer shares 500–800 words (written beforehand or in the room) and receives feedback from their small group using the following simple framework:

  • What’s strong / what stayed with you?

  • Where did you want more / get lost?

  • One question you’re left with.

4. Wrap‑up (20 mins) 8:40pm til 9:00pm

We come back together for a short round of reflections: one thing you’re taking away or planning to work on. We’ll also point to related books on our shelves, upcoming Goldfinch events and plans, and invite other comments or thoughts on your current works in progress.

Sharing slots – how to sign up

Each month we have a number of sharing slots in the Writing Lab (the number available depending on the number of attendees).

If you’d like to read 500–800 words and receive feedback, please fill in the short form below. We will confirm in advance who’s sharing each month so everyone gets a turn over time.

FILL IN THE FORM: