Green MP Carla Denyer to take leave of absence due to 'burnout'

An MP has announced that she will be taking "several weeks" off from work to recover from mental and physical health symptoms relating to burnout.

Carla Denyer, who represents Bristol Central, said she made the "difficult" decision to take time off after advice from her doctor.

Denyer said she had been struggling with persistent health issues, which she attempted to manage alongside the long hours and significant responsibility her work entails.

"Burnout is a condition that does not tend to get better on its own. If left unmanaged, it can worsen and increase your risk of long-term health problems," she added.

"It is an honour to represent the people of Bristol Central and I know that by stepping back for a little while now, I will ultimately be able to return as a better champion for the community that means so much to me," she continued.

Occupational burnout is a health condition that stems from persistent and prolonged periods of stress that can have significant knock-on health effects.

"[Burnout] is something that I know will be familiar to many people in all walks of life, especially those working in high-stress environments and in people-facing professions such as nurses, teachers and social workers," she added.

"I hope that by sharing my own struggles, I can help in some small way to combat the stigma around it and contribute to a more open conversation."

Denyer was elected to Bristol Central in the 2024 general election but has worked in politics in various roles for more than 10 years, including as co-leader of the Green Party from 2021 to 2025.

Denyer said that her constituency office will continue to function as usual during her time off.

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