Carla Denyer takes several weeks off after burnout

carla denyer will take several weeks off from her work as Bristol Central MP after advice from her doctor over burnout. She said she had been dealing with persistent health issues alongside the long hours and significant responsibility of the job.

Denyer said her constituency office will continue to function as usual while she is away. She also said burnout does not tend to get better on its own and can worsen if left unmanaged.

Bristol Central leave of absence

Denyer said the decision was “difficult” and that she represents Bristol Central. She was elected there in the 2024 general election, making her the area’s first Green MP.

She said: “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.”

The leave removes her from day-to-day parliamentary work for several weeks, but her office arrangement is set to stay in place. For constituents, the practical change is that her office remains available while she is not doing the work herself.

Carla Denyer on burnout

Denyer said: “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 that it is something she knows will be familiar to many people in high-stress and people-facing work, including nurses, teachers and social workers.

She also said: “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 has worked in politics in various roles for more than 10 years. She served as co-leader of the Green Party from 2021 to 2025, and her leave now shifts the focus back to recovery rather than parliamentary routine.