Health Minister, Karin Smyth MP delivering her inspirational keynote speech at our International Women’s Day Reception.
On International Women’s Day 2025, Chamber UK and 50:50 Parliament brought together an inspiring cohort of political leaders, future candidates, and campaigners to celebrate progress – and push for more. Among the evening’s standout voices was Karin Smyth MP, Minister of State at Department of Health and Social Care and long-time champion of gender equality within the Labour movement.
A supporter of 50:50 Parliament for many years, Smyth shared insights from her 40-year political journey, including how structural reform – not good intentions alone – enabled more women to enter Parliament.
“Parliament now has this level of women because of what we did through the Labour Party. Without structural change, it won’t happen.”
Karin Smyth MP, Minister of State, Department of Health and Social Care
Spotlight on Structural Change and Representation
Smyth credited all-women shortlists as a decisive tool in forcing institutional change within the Labour Party and trade union movement. It was this kind of proactive measure that opened doors for women and rebalanced representation across the UK political landscape.
But she also issued a challenge to comfortable assumptions.
“Radical doesn’t always mean helpful or supportive of women. So, make sure you challenge the definition of radical at every opportunity”, said Smyth.
Even cities known for their progressive politics – like Manchester and Bristol – were slow to elect women to Parliament. True change, she argued, requires deliberate action and ongoing pressure to improve systems from within.
Celebrating Women’s Health and NHS Leadership
Before becoming an MP, Smyth spent years working as a manager in the NHS. Now, as Minister of State, she is using that experience to lead efforts in transforming the system – particularly for women.
As part of her mission as Health Minister, Smyth said, “A key part of our mission is to fix women’s health. We’re not just tackling waiting lists – we’re changing the culture, the approach, and the way women are listened to.”
She highlighted her current work on maternity care and health inequalities, especially the urgent need to address the disparities faced by Black women. But her message was also filled with hope – pointing to the vast opportunities ahead for women building careers in the NHS.
“If you want a job with us – we’re recruiting! As well as changing things, we’re building something better”, Smyth exclaimed.
Supporting Future Leaders and Challenging the Status Quo
Smyth’s remarks offered a powerful reminder of how far we have come – and how much further there is to go.
“It is still the case that I go into meetings, as a Minister of State, and I’m the only woman in the room – in the year 2025”, Smyth told a shocked crowd.
That reality underscores the importance of continuing to push for diverse leadership – in Parliament, in the health sector, and beyond. Smyth encouraged every woman in the room to see themselves as part of the solution. In a motivational speech she said, “Whatever your dreams are – go for them.”
Watch, Share, Inspire
Feeling inspired by Karin Smyth MP’s call to action?
Watch her full speech from Speaker’s House and learn how decades of political activism are shaping a more inclusive future for healthcare and representation.
Like, comment and share to amplify her message
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Bayer has provided sponsorship funding, which supported logistics and materials for this event. Chamber maintained complete editorial control for the event and outputs.
Bicycle Therapeutics also provided sponsorship support, ensuring the success of the evening while allowing the organisers full independence over content and discussions.
