Lemon Jelly Press is proud to be delivering the Isle of Wight’s first ever Poet Laureate Programme, launching in 2026. This initiative has been created to celebrate the Island’s rich creative talent, nurture local voices, and place poetry at the heart of Island life.
Why We Are Running the Programme
The Isle of Wight is home to a vibrant, diverse and expanding creative community, yet many local writers do not feel visible, valued or connected to opportunities. The Poet Laureate Programme aims to change that.
We believe poetry should be accessible, relevant, and rooted in everyday life — not something reserved for classrooms or literary circles. This programme exists to:
• champion Island poets and raise the profile of writing talent across the Isle of Wight
• bring poetry into schools, libraries and community spaces to inspire people of all ages
• celebrate the unique identity, history, stories and landscapes that make the Island special
• create lasting cultural opportunities for residents, visitors and young people
• make poetry a living, evolving part of Island culture
Our Vision and What We Want to Achieve
Over the course of the Laureate’s term, the programme will:
• deliver projects that connect communities through creativity
• amplify voices that are often underrepresented or unheard
• commission original poetry that reflects Island life today
• develop school and youth engagement, inspiring the next generation of writers
• host events, workshops, performances and public poetry moments across the Island
• celebrate poetry as a tool for creativity, wellbeing and connection
Our vision is for poetry on the Isle of Wight to be visible, joyful, inclusive and woven into everyday life. We want to help people discover that poetry is for them, whether they read it, write it, perform it, or simply enjoy listening.
Our Supporters
The Isle of Wight Poet Laureate Programme is being developed with the support of local organisations, businesses and creative partners who share our belief in the power of words to build community.
Confirmed supporters include:
• Creative Island – strategic support for arts engagement
• Quay Arts – creative partnership and event collaboration
• Isle of Wight County Press – media partner
• Red Funnel – travel sponsor for Laureate activity
• Medina Books – bookselling and literary support
• Style of Wight Magazine – media support
We are continuing to build partnerships across the Island to strengthen the programme and ensure it reaches a wide range of communities and voices.
Find Out More
Full programme details, updates, and information on how to apply for the role of Isle of Wight Poet Laureate can be found on the official website: