I’m struck by how much Parliament has changed since I lost my seat

Leigh is a former mining town, home to hard-working people that look after their own, and it had always been a Labour stronghold. But things had changed: it now had a Tory MP.

The issues of the day had all led to this result – and I was heartbroken. Not for myself, but for the thousands of people within my town that I felt needed a Labour government.

What do you do in that situation? I suppose you could head for the hills, reinvent yourself elsewhere, throw the political towel in for good. But instead, I stayed put – and I certainly stayed political.

This time the Labour Party had a more structured and supportive environment

I became involved in work at Leigh Spinners Mill, a project that allowed me to reconnect with the grassroots of my community. Working alongside incredible businesses and community organisations in Leigh not only strengthened my ties to the area but also reaffirmed my commitment to public service. It was a powerful reminder of why I first entered politics: to serve and support the people in my community and work together to create positive change.

Unlike the snap elections of 2017 and 2019, this time the Labour Party had a more structured and supportive environment. The guidance and co-ordination I received from the party machine was invaluable.

In the early hours of Thursday 5 July, I was back on that podium, at Leigh Sports Village. Back in that exact spot where I’d received confirmation that I’d lost my seat, but this time a winner. 
Returning to Parliament after such a significant gap has been a journey filled with challenges and profound experiences. In many ways, it was like stepping into a familiar room – like I had never been away.

While the core work of representing constituents and engaging in parliamentary debate remains the same, the government has too. I’ve gone from being a member of the opposition, to sitting on the other side of the Commons – alongside the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.

The environment and processes have changed too. One of the most noticeable differences is the induction process for MPs. My first experience in Parliament was a whirlwind of information. This time, the process was three weeks of inductions, that even as a retread, I found invaluable. The changes reflect a broader understanding of the many different processes related to parliamentary life and the need to better equip MPs to handle them.

Another significant change is the increased focus on the safety and security of MPs. The events of recent years have highlighted the very real challenges and risks that come with public service. In response, there are now more robust security measures in place, both physically and in terms of support systems for MPs that are facing threats. While these changes are necessary, they also serve as a reminder of the responsibilities and challenges that accompany the role of an MP.

Reflecting on my return to Parliament, I’m struck by how much has changed in such a short time. The induction process has improved, security concerns have been heightened, and there is a greater emphasis on support for MPs. Yet, the core mission of representing my constituents remains as vital as ever. My time away from Westminster has deepened my commitment to this mission.

The challenges we face as a society are significant, but so too are the opportunities to make a real difference. I’m grateful for the chance to be part of that work once again, and I’m more determined than ever to contribute to the positive change our communities need. 

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