Over the past few years, we have found that we can be of great help to young people coming into the trade by providing grants to help cover moving costs, accommodation and living expenses where they are undertaking (paid) Internships or apprenticeships - usually (but by no means exclusively) in London where the cost of living can be prohibitive, and where they originate from areas where it would be impossible to consider commuting. Grants are available to allow talented young people, particularly from diverse backgrounds, to take opportunities for interviews and to accept roles when offered.  Out new development at Whetstone, London N20 is now open for applications and will provide affordable accommodation in London for up to 25 young people.  For details, contact [email protected].

What people say:  

“When I received my offer for my dream role in Publishing, I was filled with worry as to 1) where I’d live once I’d moved to London 2) how I’d afford to live in London on an entry level salary. Luckily, I was put in contact with the Book Trade Charity that helped me move from Birmingham - London and navigate my first six months in a new city. I was offered a flat at a subsidised rate pm, which allowed me to live comfortably. The administration team at BTBS ensured that everything ran smoothly with the property and were ever so kind when it came to answering and resolving my enquiries. Since being in London, I have gone on to become a Rights Assistant at a reputable commercial company, as well as win awards and establish a presence in the industry.  

I wouldn’t have been able to achieve so much without the support of The Book Trade Charity. I sincerely hope other ambitious, future publishing professionals are given the opportunity to receive such support when moving to London.” 

Hena 

 
“The Book Trade Charity’s housing provision at the beginning of my publishing career was immensely helpful. Never having lived in London before, I had no idea how to start my search for a flat and I had to move quite quickly. Being able to know that I had a place to stay in London meant that I did not have to worry about that while learning the ropes at my new job.” 

Anja 

 
“I used to live 2 hours away from London, so when I was offered the chance to intern in the city, there were so many factors in my way. I needed to start work within a few weeks, I couldn’t afford the initial costs of relocating, and I was worried that on an intern wage I couldn’t afford London rents. Then, I found out about BTBS’ accommodation offer. After a few emails, and a visit to Whetstone, I was ready to move in. Everything was taken care of, the BTBS team couldn’t have been more helpful and accommodating, and it allowed me the chance to establish myself in London and get a permanent job in the industry. In addition, I got to meet and make friends with some lovely fellow publishing assistants all in the same boat as I was.”  

Zara 

 
“BTBS were a lifeline when I decided to make the move to London and into trade publishing. Moving to a new city is never easy, and keeping up with the cost of living in London was incredibly daunting, but having BTBS provide subsidised housing in my first year saved me so much stress with finding accommodation and also keeping up with rent! I'm immensely grateful to the charity and the whole team, but especially Glenda who was incredibly supportive throughout my time at the Cottages. It's a great charity, doing the necessary work of making publishing more accessible to everyone.” 

Zakirah 

 
BTBS has been a wonderful source of support to me during the start of my career in publishing, offering transportation costs to interviews and subsidised accommodation in London. The Bookbinders Cottages has provided a peaceful oasis within easy travelling distance to central London at the start of my career which was much appreciated given I had never lived in London before. I have no doubt that without the assistance of BTBS I would not have the career I currently do and I am incredibly grateful that they continue to support the next generation of publishers. 

Brogan