Labour MP Natalie Fleet has announced her resignation from the position of safeguarding minister, explaining that the role was emotionally distressing due to her own history as a survivor of sexual abuse. Fleet, who was groomed and raped during her teenage years, informed Prime Minister Andy Burnham that she could no longer continue in the post as the work was negatively impacting her health.
Reflecting on her decision, Fleet described the choice as the most courageous action she has ever taken. She was appointed to the role in May, succeeding Jess Phillips. In a public statement, she emphasized that victims deserve a representative who is operating at their full capacity. She noted that while the Home Office provided support, the nature of the work—which involves confronting the most severe aspects of human behavior—proved to be an overwhelming trigger given her personal background.
Elected as the MP for Bolsover in July 2024, Fleet has been transparent about her past experiences, including a 2024 interview where she detailed being groomed and raped as a fifteen-year-old. Despite her departure, she expressed a willingness to serve in other government roles under the current administration, or alternatively, to continue her advocacy work from the backbenches. She stressed that while it is difficult to step down, prioritizing her own well-being is a necessary step to maintain her ability to help others.
