Liam Marshall has built his business on a simple belief: that creativity belongs to everyone. Now the Liverpool-based writer and creative facilitator is putting that belief to the test with the launch of Just Write!, a monthly short story competition that anyone, writer or not, can win.
Liam’s work sees him creating spaces where people can express themselves creatively through writing. His workshops, retreats, and corporate events help people reconnect with a side of themselves that busy lives have pushed aside. Recognised by retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis as a Small Business Sunday winner, he has watched people arrive at his sessions convinced they have nothing to say, and leave feeling inspired to keep writing, having surprised themselves.
It was through that work that the idea for Just Write! took shape. Many of the people he works with wanted to keep writing between sessions, but struggled without something to work towards. “Without something tangible to hold them accountable, they just push creativity back to the bottom of the list until their cups run empty,” he says. “Just Write! gives them a reason to make it a regular part of their routine, and rewards them for being courageous with their creativity.”
The competition gives every entrant the same prompt as their starting point, and one week to respond, choosing between two categories: 500 words and 1,000 words. Entries are judged on imagination, originality, creative courage, and execution of ideas rather than technical ability, with cash prizes of £100, £50, and £25 awarded per category every round. The competition is open to entrants worldwide.
“Technical ability alone won’t win you this one,” says Liam, who is the founder of Liam Marshall Creative. “Just Write! rewards the most imaginative story, and the creative risks participants are willing to take. It exists to give everyone who has been putting off being creative a reason, and a deadline, to finally sit down and write.”
The first round begins 15th June 2026. Find out more and register at www.liammarshall.co.uk/writing-competitions.
