New Chapter
It is always good to start a new chapter. I am therefore delighted to have become the co-coordinator of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) Warwickshire/Coventry local group.
The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading
We aspire to be the inclusive global home for editorial professionals and a catalyst for greater recognition of the value of our profession.
CIEP mission/vision
Joining the CIEP was one of the best decisions I have made and I am extremely grateful for everything that has come from my membership. Through this role, I have the chance to contribute to the CIEP community and support fellow editors and proofreaders.
Becoming a CIEP member
In June 2021 I caught COVID-19. For many, the world was beginning to open up, but for me it closed down. The aftereffects left me struggling and wondering what I would do next.
Having edited research deliverables/reports within the European projects that I had managed, I decided to join the CIEP.
My mind was immediately stimulated through high-quality training courses, guides and fact sheets .
By chance, I had stumbled into one of the richest and most supportive communities I have known. One that doesn’t see other editors and proofreaders as rivals, but rather as friends and colleagues to support and help along.
How I benefitted from attending my local group
When I had recovered, I attended my first local group meeting; it was friendly and I quickly felt at home. I am especially grateful to Jenny Gibson who had coordinated the group for the past few years.
Due to my burst of training courses that built upon my editing experience, I had upgraded directly from Entry-Level to Advanced Professional membership ahead of that meeting.
The disadvantage of having made such a rapid rise was imposter syndrome. It was my local group that helped me to get past that, as they told me that the CIEP admissions panel don’t award the top-tier grade lightly and without the necessary evidence.
Becoming co-coordinator
After Jenny had announced that she was stepping down, I put my name forward to replace her and was delighted to be confirmed in the role.
Working with Lisa Robertson, my fellow co-coordinator, has been a lot of fun as we have considered next steps and developed plans for the CIEP Warwickshire/Coventry local group.
Our programme for 2026 invites members to meet approximately every six weeks, alternating between online Zoom meetings and evening meals.
This provides local editors and proofreaders with the opportunity to socialise and discuss their work in a friendly and supportive environment.
Having held our first meeting in January, it was great to be up and running and working with local colleagues.
To start the new era, we prepared a questionnaire designed to identify what local members want from their group. It will be interesting to see how the programme develops accordingly.
Join the CIEP and get involved
If you work with words and are looking for your own new chapter, then I highly recommend joining the CIEP and attending local group meetings.
If you are in Warwickshire/Coventry or the surrounding area, get in touch and join us for friendly and supportive chat.