Meriden and Solihull East
Malcolm Sedgley

Early Life and Political Beginnings

Malcolm Sedgley was born and raised in a farming family in the Midlands, experiencing a deep sense of political displacement that many others have shared. His early exposure to politics led him to join the Labour Party at 18, though he eventually left in the mid-1990s due to growing disillusionment with the left.

Career and Life Lessons

In his 20s, Malcolm worked as a machine operator for a major engineering company during a time when the UK still had a robust manufacturing sector. These years were formative, teaching him the valuable lesson that intelligence should not be conflated with formal education. He worked alongside some of the most remarkable individuals he has ever met.

Personal Challenges and Insights

At 29, Malcolm became a caregiver for his father, who had suffered a debilitating stroke and spent the remainder of his life in a wheelchair. This challenging period highlighted the shortcomings of societal support for those who selflessly care for others.

Education and Professional Achievements

Malcolm pursued higher education later in life, earning a degree in politics as a mature student. For the past 16 years, he has worked as a secondary school teacher, including nearly a decade at a comprehensive school in Solihull.

Family Life

Malcolm is happily married to his beautiful South African wife and is a devoted father to four wonderful children, three of whom are under the age of ten.