David Laing CBE Young People Poetry Award

In partnership with Mary Laing, and in memory of David Laing CBE, Northamptonshire Community Foundation (NCF) is delighted to continue the David Laing CBE Young People Poetry Award in 2025.

David Laing CBE was a longstanding supporter of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, and also a published poet. His first collection, Loving Living Life, inspires this year’s theme.

Who can enter

Young people aged 11–17 who are beneficiaries or volunteers with charities and community groups funded by Northamptonshire Community Foundation.

How to enter

Check the eligibility criteria for the award.
Write a poem inspired by the theme Loving Living Life.
Email your poem to enquiries@ncf.uk.com by 5pm, Monday 27th October 2025.
Include your name, age, the organisation you’re connected to, and the name and contact details of a parent or carer who can attend our Annual Awards event with you if your poem is shortlisted.

About the theme

Loving Living Life is about celebrating the joys, challenges, and connections that make life meaningful, through the lens of love. You might reflect on:

Everyday magic: small moments that make life special.
Staying strong: how love helps us through challenges.
Making connections: bonds with people, nature, or yourself.
Life’s journey: the role of love at different stages of life.

David Laing’s own poetry often “painted pictures with words”. We invite you to use this as inspiration.

What we’re looking for

Real feelings: authentic, relatable poetry.
Creativity: vivid descriptions, fresh perspectives.
Connection: work that resonates universally.

The winning poet will be invited to perform their work at Northamptonshire Community Foundation’s Annual Awards in November 2025.

For full eligibility details, please click here. You can also read our permanent tribute to David Laing CBE here.

We look forward to reading your poems. If you have any questions, please contact enquiries@ncf.uk.com.