Stephen Lightbown is a Bristol-based poet and picture book writer.

Paralysed from below the waist following an accident when he was sixteen, Stephen uses his writing to give a voice to his disability. He is the author of two poetry collections for adults and one for children.

His children’s collection, And I Climbed, And I Climbed, published in September 2023 by Troika Books, was picked as a Book Trust book of the month; a National Poetry Day 2024 selected title; a Read for Empathy 2025 collection; and was shortlisted for the CLiPPA Poetry Award 2024 and the UKLA Book Awards 2025.

In 2026 Stephen’s first picture book will be published with Frances Lincoln and his second poetry collection for children will be published, again through Troika Books. 

Stephen has also twice represented England at the disabled surfing World Championships.