SCREEN STORIES: GETTING DISABLED WRITERS IN THE ROOM 2026 OPENS FOR APPLICATIONS
A script mentoring initiative from the National Talent Academy for Film & TV and Tilting the Lens
The National Talent Academy for Film & TV, in partnership with accessibility consultancy Tilting the Lens, is proud to launch Screen Stories: Getting Disabled Writers in the Room 2026, a five-month development programme designed to support Disabled writers in shaping bold, original stories for the screen.
Now open for applications, the initiative is focused on breaking down barriers within the film and television industry and creating meaningful pathways for Disabled creatives to develop sustainable careers.
The programme will support up to three emerging writers or writer-directors who identify as Disabled. Aimed at those at an early stage of their careers, Screen Stories offers a tailored and flexible experience built around each participant’s individual needs, goals and creative ambitions.
Eibh Collins, Programme Director at the National Talent Academy for Film & TV, said:
“Screen Stories is about creating real, practical pathways for Disabled writers to develop their work and build sustainable careers in the screen industry. Through this programme, we are not only excited to support talent, but are actively working to remove barriers. Now in its third year, the initiative is helping to carve out a tangible pathway into the sector, while supporting how the industry nurtures and values Disabled voices through meaningful inclusion. We are excited to see the stories that will emerge from this year’s participants”
Running from July to November 2026, the programme combines workshops, industry talks, peer networking and one-to-one mentorship with experienced creatives from across the screen sector and beyond. Participants will develop their ideas, strengthen their scripts and build confidence in their voice, while expanding their professional networks.
The scheme will conclude with an in-person table read event in Dublin in November 2026, where participants’ work will be brought to life by professional actors and inductee guest.
A bursary paid in instalments will support participants through the programme and developing their work.
Earlier this year, Louise Bruton, a 2024 participant of the programme, screened her National Talent Academy-funded short film Let Go as part of the Dublin International Film Festival. Let Go was developed through Screen Stories 2024.
Louise Bruton said:
“From the get-go, Screen Stories was a game-changer for me as a screenwriter, but it also opened up my eyes to the possibility of becoming a director. Having people in your corner is always a treat, but between Tilting the Lens and the National Talent Academies, they encouraged me to aim for more. I spent so long fighting to get my foot in the door of the film industry, but by expanding my skillset through the workshops and building on my confidence with my mentor, I eventually found myself inside the room.”
The National Talent Academy for Film & TV and Tilting the Lens are committed to meeting the access needs of all participants, adapting the programme where required and covering associated costs to ensure an inclusive and supportive experience.
Sinéad Burke, CEO at Tilting the Lens, added:
“As we begin our third year of Screen Stories, we can measure and prove that there is, and always has been, a significant cohort of Disabled writing talent in Ireland. This becomes particularly evident when accessible and flexible programmes are available. We continue to invest in this programme because we understand that for many Disabled people, the barriers are not opportunity alone, but a need for funding, networks, mentors, and champions. Ultimately, it requires a sector-wide ambition for system change to ensure programmes convert to careers.”
Full application details and accessible versions of this open call are available at: www.nationaltalentacademies.ie/film-tv
Applications close at 12 noon on 9 June 2026.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Identify as Disabled, including physical, sensory, neurological, neurodevelopmental, mental health or medical conditions
- Be aged 18 or over
- Not be in full-time education
- Be resident on the island of Ireland, or an Irish applicant living abroad who can attend sessions scheduled in GMT
Applicants should demonstrate an interest or engagement in creative writing across any form, including film, theatre, literature or other creative disciplines.
Applications are open to both individuals and co-writing teams, provided the project is centred around a Disabled creative.
The scheme is open to live-action short film projects only.
How to Apply
Full application details and accessible versions of this open call are available at:
www.nationaltalentacademies.ie/film-tv
Applications close at 12 noon on 9 June 2026.
Information Session
An online information session and Q&A will take place at 12 Noon on 26 May 2026. Further details and registration are available via the website.
If you would like to access other accesible versions of the course profile you can find:
- Easy Read (PDF version) HERE
- Easy Read (Word version) HERE
- Irish Sign Language (ISL) Video HERE or on Youtube HERE
- Audio MP4 Version of this information with subtitles HERE or on Youtube HERE
- Audio MP3 Version of this information is downloaded HERE.
About Us:
Tilting the Lens is a disability-led strategic accessibility consultancy working across Europe and globally to support inclusive practices in recruitment, design, communications and organisational culture.
The National Talent Academy for Film & TV is an initiative of Screen Ireland, managed by Ardán.
Photo Credit: Freddie Greenall.