About Me - Jo Platt

Jo Platt - the MP for Leigh and Atherton.

As the Member of Parliament for Leigh and Atherton, which also includes Tyldesley, Lowton, Golborne, and a section of the Astley area, Jo has led numerous campaigns to secure affordable housing, improve transport connectivity, drive regeneration, strengthen education – with a particular focus on improving SEND provision – enhance local health services, tackle antisocial behaviour, and improve outcomes for residents across the constituency.

A significant part of Jo’s role is supporting constituents with individual problems and concerns. Her extensive caseload involves helping local residents navigate complex issues, access the services they need, and ensure their voices are heard by the relevant organisations and authorities.

Born in 1973, Jo is originally from Salford. She moved to Tyldesley in the 2000s before later moving to Leigh, where she now lives with her partner and children.

Before becoming an MP, Jo represented the Astley and Mosley Common ward on Wigan Council from 2012 to 2017. During this time, she was appointed to the council’s Cabinet, where she held the portfolio for Children and Young People.

Later, Jo was the first woman to be elected as the Member of Parliament for Leigh, representing the constituency from 2017 until late 2019. During her time in Parliament, she served as a Shadow Minister for the Cabinet Office, with responsibility for digital implementation and cyber security.

Despite losing her seat in 2019 following the General Election, Jo remained closely involved in the local community. She became Manager of Leigh Spinners Mill, playing a key role in bringing the historic building back into productive use. Under her management, the mill developed into a thriving centre for enterprise, creativity and innovation, becoming home to more than 80 businesses, artists and cultural organisations and making an important contribution to the local economy.

In July 2024, Jo was re-elected as the MP for the newly formed Leigh and Atherton constituency, returning to Parliament to represent the community she has long served.

In 2026, Jo was appointed Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to Prime Minister Andy Burnham, serving as a key conduit between the Prime Minister and backbench MPs. Her responsibilities include supporting with parliamentary business, communicating the views of backbench colleagues and, assisting with parliamentary engagement, including matters raised through the House of Commons.