Reform UK's Runcorn and Helsby MP Sarah Pochin has revealed that her children begged her to quit politics due to safety concerns, saying all eight of the party's MPs now have 24-hour security.
Ms Pochin said security processes for Reform's MPs had been stepped up since former Tory minister Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her Devon home on July 9. A man has been charged with murder following an investigation by counter-terrorism police.
Family impact and daily restrictions
Ms Pochin, who replaced Labour's Mike Amesbury as MP after he admitted punching a man, told GB News: "I am so grateful they are looking after us, but the impact on your family life is severe."
She said: "I have two boys, 25 and 27, and of course, although they've got their own lives now, when I go and see them, security comes and it upsets them so much. They're like, mum, 'please stop what you're doing. Please stop, [because] it can never be worth risking your life'."
She described a recent holiday to North Wales with her husband, where two security guards accompanied them while walking their dogs along a coastal path, with her partner "nervously holding my hand".
Security concerns and political response
Ms Pochin added: "I'm so grateful for the security, but it is very, very intrusive. I can't go clothes shopping anymore. I can't go make-up shopping... I can't really even go to Sainsbury's, such is the risk to us now. But I will never be silenced."
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage complained earlier this year that his security had been cut back, and subsequently met with the Royal and VIP Executive Committee, the body responsible for the security of high-profile figures.
Ms Widdecombe's alleged murder prompted discussions around the personal security of MPs and political figures. Reform said Mr Farage had not been offered the security he needed, after it emerged the party turned down an offer of government-funded security last year.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he thought there was the need for a "serious review of MPs' security", adding: "I certainly am prepared to do that."
Alleged murder details
Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, was arrested on suspicion of murder on July 11, two days after Ms Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her property.
Ms Widdecombe was struck 21 times on the head with a hammer, Westminster Magistrates' Court heard. Kerry will appear at the Old Bailey for a plea and trial preparation hearing on November 20. A provisional trial date was listed for June 8, 2027.
Ms Pochin, who entered Parliament in 2025 after winning a by-election, previously worked for Shell and as a justice of the peace, as well as being a Conservative councillor and mayor of Cheshire East. She was Reform UK's first female MP, and has since been joined by former Tory minister Suella Braverman, who defected in January.
