The Federation of Scottish Theatre (FST) and the Scottish Society of Playwrights (SSP) have updated the recommended contract used to commission plays in Scotland. The new agreement comes into effect from 1 April 2026 and is available to download below, alongside a set of FAQs.
The new version is clearer and easier to use, reflects current commissioning practice, and includes a few new areas where guidance was needed (including access, recording/filming, and artificial intelligence). It also supports commissions involving co-writers or writing teams.
The update is the result of a thorough review and consultation process with FST members and the SSP, as well as consideration of related contracts used by the National Theatre of Scotland, Independent Theatre Council, UK Theatre, and the Writers Guild of Great Britian. FST and SSP plan to review the agreement again in April 2027, to allow consideration of any practical feedback or concerns after a year of use.
SSP sets the rates for commissions which sit separately from the contract and continue to be maintained by SSP. These can be found on their website via the following link: https://www.scottishsocietyofplaywrights.co.uk/resources/ssp-fst/