Inspiring Resilience with Lord Mackinlay

The School was honoured to welcome Lord Mackinlay to King’s on Thursday. Craig Mackinlay, a “local boy” and current parent, was ennobled recently and is a former Conservative MP and founder of the Net Zero Scrutiny Group. In a “Question and Answer” format, he was interviewed by Mr Charles with an audience including Year 8, Senior School pupils, and Governors. Questions covered his career in politics, as well as his recent encounter with sepsis which resulted in a quadruple amputation and led him to be popularised as the “Bionic MP.” On Mental Health Day, his recovery speaks to extraordinary resilience and mental and physical fortitude, values that we actively promote at King’s.

Lord Mackinlay’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. After contracting sepsis in 2023, he endured a quadruple amputation. Medical professionals gave him only a 5% chance of survival, but through a rigorous recovery and with the steadfast support of his family, he beat the odds. He described his emotional return to the House of Commons as “incredibly humbling” and “one of the most emotional experiences” of his life. He humorously recounted how he broke dress protocol, appearing in trainers and an ill-fitting suit jacket due to his prosthetics, but the House met him with resounding applause—a rare show of unity across party lines.

In his conversation with Mr Charles, Lord Mackinlay explained how his political career and his health journey intersected. “I’ve spent years advocating for what I believe in; now, I have a new passion for raising awareness about sepsis and improving resources for people with disabilities,” he said. His goals extend to advancing access to prosthetic limbs and improving the NHS’s approach to long-term rehabilitation.

His advice to pupils resonated deeply. He encouraged them to pursue diverse experiences and avoid falling into careers without genuine passion, especially in politics. “You should never consider politics a career—it should be a calling,” he emphasised. For those interested in politics, he recommended gaining life experience in other fields, which he believes contributes to well-rounded public service. Reflecting on his own passion for public service, he shared that he initially entered politics out of a desire to serve and, above all, make a difference.

Mr Charles wrapped up the session, acknowledging Lord Mackinlay’s remarkable resilience and contribution to public service. “Regardless of one’s political stance,” he noted, “Lord Mackinlay’s perseverance and commitment are truly inspiring.” Lady Mackinlay, present in the audience, also shared a heartfelt reminder with the pupils: “Never hesitate to reach out when things feel overwhelming. Love and family will see you through anything.”