'We are the most unequal country in Western Europe'

The former council leader has been in the role since being elected in 2015.

Ms Rimmer has discussed her vision and hopes for the area.

“To make sure that we all have a good life locally,” she said.

“To achieve this, we need to make sure that we get our fair share of funding.

“There needs to be adequate resources for housing, education, health and transport.

“We are the most unequal country in Western Europe. Despite being the sixth largest economy in the world. Things cannot continue the way they have been over the last fourteen years.

Life chances should be equal, says MP

“Local people should be able to get a GP appointment, an NHS dentist, their children into good schools. Quite simply, children born and raised here should have the same life chances as ones born anywhere else in the country.”

Furthermore, Ms Rimmer revealed her biggest priority as MP.

“First and foremost it is my constituents that live here and to get for them the best life possible,” she said.

“In Parliament, I have campaigned nationally on the issue of children growing up in care.

“For too long children growing up in care have not been given the support they deserve.

“These are children that the country and all of us have a collective responsibility for.

“Often these children have experienced horrific trauma, abuse or neglect yet the support offered is not enough.

“I want these children to be able to have the opportunities, care and support that gives them the confidence to get on in life.”

Toughest part of being an MP

Ms Rimmer was also asked what has been the hardest part of being an MP.

“When there are horrific events that lead to the loss of children, especially if these are the act of criminals,” she said.

“It is incredibly difficult for the families and we have seen many campaigns locally set up in honour of lost loved ones to bring about change.

“Sadly, change in Parliament comes frustratingly slow. This causes additional angst and pain for the families.

“This is incredibly difficult and frustrating as these families are already living through unimaginable pain.

“For many families locally, they have had to suffer years of hurt to finally achieve the aim of their campaigns, yet many are still fighting for the change they want to see.

“Too often the loved ones of victims are left feeling that they have not had fair justice served.”

Outside of politics, Ms Rimmer says she enjoys watching Saints.

“I still try to go to every home game and would go to all of them if I could,” she said.

“My friends say to me that I watch Saints, not rugby league.

“I really do think they are the pride of our town and have treated us all to such wonderful memories over the years.

“I try to see my family and dear friends as much as I can, which is not enough for me. It can be tricky with having to be in Westminster during the week.”

Violet-Grace's Law

And Ms Rimmer also shared what she thinks has been her biggest achievement since being elected as MP.

“Every day my team and I work to help local people,” she said.

“From helping with housing issues, to securing emergency passports, dozens of people contact my office each day needing assistance.

“I get satisfaction with my involvement in securing Violet-Grace’s Law. After five years of tireless campaigning with the parents and the community, we finally managed to secure Violet-Grace’s Law.

(Image: St Helens Star)

“Violet-Grace’s family were the true source of inspiration and led the campaign so strongly.

“For many years, I have worked on issues of global human rights. I truly believe we have a duty to stand up for mankind by combatting crimes against humanity, wherever they occur.

“On this, I was able to secure a law that combats the forced organ harvesting trade, by stopping British citizens from inadvertently funding it. Change comes slowly but it is always worth fighting for.”

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