In a recent statement, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner shared her challenges as a mother of a child with lifelong disabilities, highlighting the complexities of family life, especially when dealing with disability, divorce, and ensuring children’s long-term security.
The 45-year-old Ashton-under-Lyne MP has faced scrutiny over her tax affairs after purchasing an £800,000 apartment in Hove, East Sussex, saving £40,000 in stamp duty by transferring ownership of a family property in Ashton-under-Lyne based on financial advice she received.
Despite the controversy, Prime Minister Keir Starmer supported Rayner, praising her journey from a teenage mother to a prominent figure in Britain. Rayner has encountered personal and professional obstacles, notably during the traumatic birth of her son, Charlie, who is now 17 and facing challenges due to being blind and having additional learning difficulties.
In a candid interview, Rayner revealed the distressing moment when doctors doubted Charlie’s survival after his premature birth. Charlie, weighing less than 1lb, defied the odds after a challenging start in a neonatal unit and continues to face hurdles but attends school and shares a close bond with his brother Jimmy.
Rayner, who divorced her husband Mark, explained the arrangements made to ensure Charlie’s stability and wellbeing, including establishing a trust to manage his needs and transferring property ownership for his benefit. Reflecting on her experiences, Rayner highlighted how her children have been her motivation for overcoming adversity and striving for a better life.
Raised in a challenging environment with a grandmother as her primary caregiver, Rayner has been determined to provide a different upbringing for her children. Access to parenting classes through the Sure Start scheme in 1997 offered Rayner valuable insights into nurturing children, a stark contrast to her own upbringing.
Rayner’s story resonates with many facing similar struggles, showcasing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.