40 0ver 40 logo copy 2

#26

Jess Phillips MP

Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley - Parliamentary Under Secretary (Home Office)

Jess Phillipsby Jenny Smith

I have been an admirer of Jess Phillips for a long time and it's easy to see why.  She's an MP who is in it for all the right reasons, who speaks up and stands up for what is right.  But it's her work seeking justice for abused women that first captured my attention.  In lockdown I embarked on a charity project photographing people at their front doors to raise money for Refuge, a charity I've long admired following the suicide of an old school friend who had suffered years of domestic and sexual abuse at the hands of men.  In 2016 Jess began reading aloud the names of women killed by men during debates in Parliament.  This solemn act which she has done every year since, highlights the desperate need for systemic change in how society addresses violence against women.  

Jess Phillipsby Jenny Smith

As the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, Jess continues to advocate for change in the UK's approach to gender-based violence.  In December 2024, Jess, alongside my friend, Nicola Thorp, introduced new guidance that mandates police forces in England and Wales to inform stalking victims of their perpetrators identity.  Nicola, a victim of stalking herself, has publicly spoken about the fear she felt not knowing what her stalker looked like. It lead her to suspect everyone and caused even more anxiety in her day to day life. 

Jess Phillipsby Jenny Smith

Jess' decision to enter politics was deeply personal.  Having worked in women's refuges, she witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of domestic abuse. Her experiences fueled her determination to advocate for those whose voices are often unheard.  Her commitment to these issues has not come without personal cost.  She has received numerous death threats throughout her career, a testament to the vitriol directed at women who challenge the status quo.  Despite these threats, she remains resolute in her mission. 

Jess Phillipsby Jenny Smith

A significant chapter in her journey was her friendship with the late Jo Cox, the Labour MP murdered in 2016. Their bond was rooted in shared values and a mutual dedication to public service, and Jo's tragic death further galvanised Jess's resolve to continue fighting for justice and equality.  

Jess Phillipsby Jenny Smith

Fellow 40 OVER 40 participant, Tracy Brabin (now Mayor of West Yorkshire) was the woman who stood for and won Jo's seat and has also continued to fight for women's rights ever since. 

Jess Phillipby Jenny Smith

Jess Phillipsby Jenny Smith

Jess is currently focusing on the Crime and Policing Bill as well as the issue of online abuse, particularly on platforms like X which has been criticised for fostering a toxic environment. In response to Elon Musk's disparaging comments about her work, Jess dismissed his remarks as baseless, emphasising that her policies are driven by the needs of victims, not the opinions of tech billionaires.  

Jess Phillipsby Jenny Smith

Martha Silcottby Jenny Smith

Thank you Jess for being part of the 40 OVER 40 project, I am beyond thrilled to be able to feature you.

I think it's fair to say our hormones have affected us all at some time or another.  If you fancy a bit of a laugh, check out my podcast, Dear Hormones where women share their hormonal stories, the good the bad and the ugly - listen here.