Tuesday 12th, we released a deeply impactful report exposing the distressing state of British politics. Parliament, once a source of democratic pride, has become a place where bullying, harassment, and toxic behaviour are all too common. Public trust is at an all-time low, and, sadly, many MPs have left office, not because they lost their love for public service, but due to the debilitating emotional toll their roles now demand. Westminster’s outdated “gentleman’s club” norms make it hard for MPs to represent us with integrity or to feel secure in the roles they hold.
These issues go beyond politicians—they affect all of us, from disillusioned voters to those considering public service. Among MPs who have recently stepped down, nearly half cite the damaging impact on their mental health and personal lives. Many feel unsupported and exposed, working long hours under intense scrutiny with minimal mental health care and support. It’s clear that Parliament needs to become a welcoming, inclusive space that inspires respect, represents our diverse nation, and allows people from all backgrounds to thrive.
We can’t have a welcoming, inclusive and equal country if Parliament isn’t these things in the first place.
At Compassion in Politics, we believe we can change this. We’re advocating for urgent reforms to create a more inclusive and humane Parliament, one that cares for the wellbeing of MPs and staff, prioritises respectful debate, and brings honesty and transparency back into the heart of government. Our work aims to build a political environment that invites kindness, respect, and cooperation, creating a future we can all believe in.
Here's a flavour of our recommendations:
- Ban booing and jeering in parliamentary debates and establish a more respectful, constructive and efficient PMQs.
- Put the Members and Ministerial Codes on a statutory footing.
- Establish a new law to prevent political misrepresentation.
- Introduce electronic voting.
- End ‘talking out’ of Private Members Bills.
- Increase in free votes
- Job Shares, hybrid working and improved childcare for MPs.
- Reform the Whipping system.
- A modern, independent HR function.
- Modernise language and practices.
But to make this change, we need your support. By becoming a member of Compassion in Politics, you’ll stand with a growing community dedicated to making British politics a force for good. Together, we can rebuild trust, inspire hope, and bring compassion back into our political life. Please join us today and help drive the changes we all want to see.
Thank you for standing with us in this mission.
With gratitude and hope,
Compassion in Politics