Focus sometimes accepts submissions from freelance science writers. Submissions can be made by email or by post to Ian Taylor, Deputy Editor (IanTaylor@bbcmagazinesbristol.com).

If you are interested in pitching a feature to us, please carefully read the following guidelines first:

1. We only accept features from experienced feature writers. When you submit your idea, please include a CV and cover letter, and cuttings of previously published work that will show us you can write to a brief and to a specific audience. Please don’t submit if you are an unpublished writer.

2. Please make sure you have read Focus before you send in an idea, and that you are familiar with our subject and readership.

3. In the first instance, please send us a brief synopsis of your idea (100-200 words) and how you think it would work in Focus. In it, consider the following: Will your idea interest our readers? Which experts would you include? What kind of structure might your feature take? What pictures or illustrations is your piece likely to need?

4. We have features meetings every 4-6 weeks, where we consider all freelance pitches and decide whether we can use them. Please be patient – we will let you know whether we can use your idea as soon as possible.

5. Our preferred method of submission is email, although you may wish to send samples of your previous work by post. Please be sure to include an email address and telephone number.

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