4. Defending the Voiceless

Rebecca was drawn into public service with a mission to help the most vulnerable in society. Way back in 2003, she worked on Plymouth City Council's Homeless and Social Housing Unit and more recently she has chaired the Commission on Violence Against Women and Girls as a councillor.

In her first six months in office, Rebecca has worked with her constituency-based team to host surgeries and resolve almost 1,000 pieces of casework, helping countless vulnerable constituents with access to government resources.

In Parliament, Rebecca always has the vulnerable in the front of her mind and is not afraid to take difficult positions. On the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, she highlighted often overlooked safeguarding concerns, voting against the legislation.

The South West Devon MP has also been a vocal critic of the Government's decision to axe the Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners. She has pointed out that 82% of pensioners that live below the poverty line are set to lose the £300 payment, calling on more support to help the elderly keep warm through the winter.

View recent articles on Rebecca's work to protect the vulnerable in South West Devon below.

News

Rebecca visits Ivybridge Community College to see inclusion in action

It was a real pleasure to be invited back to Ivybridge Community College and meet with Mrs Warne and Mr Farrell to discuss the school’s approach to supporting pupils with SEND and other vulnerable learners, and how inclusion is embedded across the college. During my tour of the school, I saw th

Rebecca challenges Labour on their plan to scrap the two-child benefit cap

Earlier this week, I spoke at the Despatch Box for the Second Reading of the Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill, as the Government proceeds with its plan to lift the two-child limit, a policy not included in Labour’s manifesto and previously ruled out by the Chancellor. During t

Rebecca returns to Gables Dogs and Cats Home

It’s always lovely to visit Gables Dogs & Cats Home and see the fantastic work the team are doing every day to care for animals and help them find their forever home.During my visit, I was pleased to hand over a prize for their Valentine’s raffle and I also had the chance to meet two of their wo

Rebecca marks Holocaust Memorial Day

Today we mark Holocaust Memorial Day, a time to remember the millions of Jewish people and others persecuted during the Holocaust, and to reflect on the lessons it teaches us for today.Last summer, I had the privilege of lighting the Eternal Flame at Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Centr

Rebecca challenges Labour government on rising youth unemployment

Today I challenged the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on the reality facing young people trying to find work. While Labour MPs focus on headline-friendly initiatives, youth unemployment has risen by over 100,000 since Labour came to power.

Rebecca meets with UNISON to discuss policing in South West Devon

Today I met with Belinda from UNISON to discuss police numbers and resources in the South West. We talked about the challenges facing police staff, who keep our communities safe in roles such as PCSOs, 999 call handlers, crime analysts, and dispatch controllers.

Rebecca talks ADHD research with Ivybridge student Elin

Had a wonderful time speaking to Elin from Ivybridge Community College about her Extended Project Qualification exploring the challenges faced by girls with ADHD in secondary school and how schools can better support them.