PARTICIPATE
The Society is so much more than a subscription to a journal, however central that is. We want to create a dynamic community in which members participate. This can be through social media where active responses to our posts on X or Instagram would give us a sense of what is appreciated and amplify our messages.
Our podcast editor, Lyn Lockwood, is always open to ideas for new broadcasts and would welcome volunteers to take part- you don’t need any technical skill regarding podcasting, but if you have a particular aspect of Larkin’s work that interests you then Lyn will work with you to bring it to the podcast.
The Society organises Meet the Members Zoom events two or three times a year; congenial get-togethers out of which can emerge all kinds of ideas. No booking needed, the joining link is sent to members in good time and all are welcome.
We are now committed to a programme of 2- yearly conferences to be held at the University of Hull with a full programme of both academic and artistic approaches to Larkin and his contemporaries. Our members have spoken at these events, volunteered to chair sessions and contributed to our social media coverage, all of which is immensely valuable. Other regular events take place in December to mark Larkin’s death and the June AGM, a day which always includes a distinguished speaker and moves venues, most recently being Beverley, Hull, Oxford and Coventry and are free to attend. Watch out for online events with wonderful guest speakers such as HVPS Blake Morrison and Andrew Motion and President Rosie Millard. Membership participation in these events is at the heart of the engaging and lively atmosphere that they generate.
Good in front of the cameras? We’re wanting to enrich our You-Tube content with readings and reflections on Larkin. Why not read a poem to camera (for most people that’s our mobile phones of course) and send it to us to upload. Trustee Philip Pullen would love to hear from anyone interested in contributing in this way, helping us reach a global audience as well as building a wonderful repository of filmed material.
Volunteering for a charity can help you learn new skills, make lasting friendships, decrease social isolation and can look great on a cv or job application. At the PLS we are always looking out for volunteers to help with social media, podcasting, events management and web content and our trustees are always willing to help people develop their skills and knowledge. From time to time we also have vacancies for trustees which is a wonderful opportunity to learn how charities are run and to engage with Charity Commission rules and procedures.
