Unbarred Press is a new independent literary press publishing bold new work shaped by lived experience of the criminal justice system.

The press exists to create editorial and publishing pathways for writers whose voices are often excluded from traditional literary spaces.

Alongside publishing new work, Unbarred Press develops writing through workshops delivered by the Unbarred Project CIC in custodial and community settings.

We are currently inviting poetry submissions for an upcoming anthology.

Writers affected by the criminal justice system, whether through personal experience, family, work or community, are warmly invited to submit.

Submissions are open until 30 April 2026. The deadline may be extended at the editor’s discretion.

We look forward to reading your work.

Literature beyond the bars.