Steve Lismore, a dedicated civil servant and local politician, tragically lost his life at the age of 71 in a climbing accident in Italy. His legacy is marked by an unwavering commitment to improving opportunities for children and advocating for equality in employment, particularly for those with disabilities. His impactful work resonated throughout north Derbyshire, where he made a significant difference in the lives of many.
Early Life and Education
Born in Toronto, Canada, Steve was the son of Violet, a secretary, and Brian Lismore, a toolmaker. His early life was shaped by a love for reading and a remarkable academic aptitude that saw him excel at Bayview Heights School in Ontario, where he even skipped a grade and won accolades at science fairs.
His teenage years were marked by a spirit of adventure and resourcefulness as he tinkered with motorbikes, constantly seeking to enhance their performance. This innovation mirrored his approach to life—one characterised by creativity and a knack for problem-solving. Growing up in a challenging family environment, with an alcoholic father and a mother grappling with anxiety, Steve developed a compassionate outlook that allowed him to forge meaningful connections with those around him.
Commitment to Community and Public Service
After earning a degree from York University in Toronto, Steve relocated to the UK in 1978 to pursue a master’s in English literature at Aberystwyth University. It was here that he met Jenie Thompson, whom he married in 1982. Their life together spanned Chesterfield, Derbyshire, striking a balance between Jenie’s teaching role in Nottingham and Steve’s work with Manpower Services in Sheffield. The couple separated in 2009, leading to a divorce three years later.
Steve’s impact on the local community was profound. He held several influential roles within Touchstone Community Development, a charity focused on providing young people with essential training and educational opportunities. As chief executive, he not only secured vital funding but also spearheaded projects that have benefited countless children in Chesterfield, serving as a steadfast trustee until his passing.
His commitment to public service continued when he joined the Department for Work & Pensions in 2009 as a senior policy adviser. Here, he led the Buckland review on autism employment, published to acclaim in 2024, advocating for actionable solutions to improve employment prospects for those with disabilities.
A Life of Advocacy and Impact
Steve’s influence extended beyond his professional roles. He was actively involved in numerous community initiatives, including serving as a school governor and contributing to organisations such as Citizens Advice and Chesterfield Theatre. His political career with the Labour Party culminated in his role as cabinet member for health and wellbeing at Chesterfield Council, where he continued to champion the causes close to his heart.
I had the privilege of meeting Steve in 2019 when we collaborated at the Department of Health and Social Care in London, working to prepare for the potential ramifications of a no-deal Brexit on social care. His passion and dedication were evident in every project he undertook, and his enthusiasm for making a difference was infectious.
Steve is survived by his partner, his four children—James, Robin, Rosalinde, and Simon—and four grandchildren: Abigail, Dausewell, Leonora, and Isabella, as well as his sisters, Lydia and Carolyn. His legacy of kindness and commitment to social justice will undeniably leave a lasting mark on all who knew him.
Why it Matters
Steve Lismore’s life serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a community. His passion for equality, education, and social justice resonates in today’s society, where the need for advocates who champion the rights of the underrepresented is more crucial than ever. In remembering Steve, we are inspired to continue his fight for a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to strive for equality and to create lasting change in their communities.
