Labour

Natalie Fleet Steps Down as Safeguarding Minister, Citing Personal Impact

Labour MP Natalie Fleet has announced she is stepping down as Minister for Safeguarding, saying the role became "overwhelmingly triggering" and that victims deserve "someone at their best."

By Staff member • Published 22 July 2026 at 20:16

Labour MP Natalie Fleet has announced that she is stepping down from her role as Minister for Safeguarding, saying the demands of the position had become "overwhelmingly triggering."

In a statement published on X, Ms Fleet described serving as Safeguarding Minister as "the honour of a lifetime" but said she had concluded she could no longer continue in the role.

She wrote:

"Honour of lifetime to be Minister for Safeguarding.
Quickly found contents overwhelmingly triggering.
Did bravest thing I've ever done & told PM's team I sadly couldn't stay.
Victims deserve someone at their best.
I wish my successor well & will do all I can to support them."

Ms Fleet did not provide further details in her statement. However, she made clear that her decision was based on the personal impact of the role and her belief that victims should be supported by a minister able to give the position their full attention.

She also expressed support for her successor and indicated that she intends to continue assisting the Government from the backbenches.

The announcement comes as Prime Minister Andy Burnham continues to reshape his ministerial team following his recent arrival in Downing Street.



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