Antoinette Sandbach: A Fearless Barrister and Former Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom
A journey of resilience, leadership, and reform in British politics
Introduction
Antoinette Geraldine Mackeson-Sandbach is a name that resonates with strength, integrity, and determination. A British Barrister and former Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom, she has spent her career standing for justice, accountability, and compassion in governance. Her professional journey reflects both triumphs and challenges, shaped by her early experiences in law and her commitment to public service.
Born in 1969 in Hammersmith, London, and raised between England and North Wales, Antoinette Sandbach represents the blend of legal excellence and rural advocacy that has defined her political identity. From the courtroom to the House of Commons, she made her mark as a principled leader who valued both her constituents and her conscience.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Antoinette Geraldine Mackeson-Sandbach |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 15 February 1969 |
| Age | 56 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Hammersmith, London, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Education | Law degree from the University of Nottingham |
| Profession | Barrister and former Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom |
| Political Affiliation | Formerly Conservative, later Liberal Democrat |
| Spouse | Matthew Sherratt (sculptor) |
| Children | One daughter, Sacha |
| Notable Advocacy | Baby Loss Support, Rural Affairs, Energy & Sustainability |
Early Life and Education
Antoinette Sandbach was born into a family with deep roots in both England and Wales. Her upbringing combined the values of diligence and social responsibility, which became evident throughout her career. Growing up in North Wales, she developed a strong appreciation for the challenges faced by rural communities—something that later became central to her political mission.
She attended Haileybury and Imperial Service College, a prestigious independent school in Hertfordshire, before studying Law at the University of Nottingham. Her academic success and passion for justice led her to the Bar, where she honed her skills as a barrister specializing in criminal law.
Career as a Barrister
Before entering politics, Antoinette Sandbach built a distinguished legal career. She practised as a criminal barrister in London for more than a decade, representing clients in complex cases and advocating for fairness within the justice system. Her sharp intellect, attention to detail, and unwavering sense of ethics earned her the respect of peers and clients alike.
Her legal background provided her with the analytical skills and resilience needed to navigate the often turbulent world of politics. The courtroom became her training ground for the parliamentary debates that would later define her political life.
Entry into Politics
Antoinette Sandbach’s political journey began in 2007, when she stood as a Conservative candidate for the Delyn constituency in Wales. Although she narrowly missed victory, her dedication and connection with voters laid the foundation for future success.
In 2011, she was elected as a Member of the Welsh Assembly (Senedd Cymru) representing the North Wales region. Here, she served as Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs and later Shadow Minister for the Environment. Her deep understanding of farming, land management, and rural livelihoods made her a credible and passionate voice for countryside issues.
Parliamentary Career in Westminster
Her success in Wales led to a national stage. In 2015, Sandbach was elected as Member of Parliament for Eddisbury (Cheshire), representing the Conservative Party. In Parliament, she served on the Welsh Affairs Committee and the Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy Committee.
Her time in Westminster was marked by a strong sense of independence and moral clarity. She prioritized her constituents and her principles over party politics. Sandbach supported measures promoting sustainable energy, rural business development, and bereavement support services.
A Voice for Compassion and Reform
Among her most heartfelt contributions was her work on baby loss awareness. Having experienced personal tragedy with the death of her infant son, she co-founded the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Baby Loss. Her advocacy led to greater funding for bereavement care and emotional support services across the UK, touching countless families affected by similar grief.
She also championed women’s participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), emphasizing equal opportunities and education as the keys to future innovation.
Brexit, Rebellion, and Party Change
The Brexit years were the defining test of Antoinette Sandbach’s political courage. Though elected as a Conservative, she openly supported the UK remaining in the European Union. In 2017, she was among 11 Conservative MPs who defied their party to ensure Parliament had a say on the final Brexit deal—a move driven by her belief in democratic accountability.
In September 2019, after opposing a no-deal Brexit, she had the Conservative whip removed. Choosing integrity over conformity, she later joined the Liberal Democrats. Although she lost her seat in the 2019 General Election, her stand earned widespread respect across political lines for its honesty and conviction.
Personal Life
Away from politics, Antoinette Sandbach is known for her warmth and resilience. She married Matthew Sherratt, a sculptor, in 2012. The couple share one daughter, Sacha. Her personal loss—the death of her baby son, Sam, in 2009—shaped her lifelong dedication to improving bereavement care and mental health support in the UK.
Her openness about grief and her advocacy for parents in similar situations have been praised as acts of courage and empathy rarely seen in public life.
Health and Resilience
In 2020, Sandbach publicly revealed her diagnosis of breast cancer, facing treatment with determination and grace. By 2021, she announced that medical results showed no remaining cancer cells. Her strength during this time inspired many who were facing similar challenges, further reinforcing her image as a fighter both inside and outside politics.
Legacy and Impact
Antoinette Sandbach’s legacy is one of principled leadership, compassion, and courage. Whether as a Barrister and former Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom, or as a campaigner for bereaved families, she has shown that true leadership means standing firm for what is right—even when it comes at personal cost.
Her dual experience in law and politics positioned her as a voice for both justice and empathy. She broke barriers as a woman representing rural communities, advocated for fair governance, and became a role model for integrity in public life.
Conclusion
Antoinette Sandbach’s story embodies both the challenges and rewards of public service. From her early days as a lawyer to her tenure in Parliament, she has shown that resilience, empathy, and moral conviction can coexist in politics. Her career reminds us that leadership is not just about power—it’s about purpose, humanity, and courage to stand alone when necessary.
Her journey continues to inspire young professionals, women in politics, and citizens who believe in integrity-driven leadership. Antoinette Sandbach remains a symbol of conviction and compassion in British public life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Antoinette Sandbach?
Antoinette Sandbach is a British barrister and former Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom known for her work in rural affairs, bereavement support, and energy policy.
When was Antoinette Sandbach born?
She was born on 15 February 1969 in Hammersmith, London.
What political parties has she been part of?
She was originally a member of the Conservative Party and later joined the Liberal Democrats in 2019.
What is she known for in Parliament?
She is known for co-founding the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Baby Loss and for standing against a no-deal Brexit in defense of parliamentary democracy.
What is her professional background before politics?
Antoinette Sandbach worked as a criminal barrister in London for over a decade before entering politics.
What causes does she support?
She supports baby-loss awareness, mental health, rural affairs, and renewable energy policies.
