Ed Davey on caregiving, purpose and putting compassion at the heart of politics

Ed Davey on caregiving, purpose and putting compassion at the heart of politics

Author: Kate Thornton May 30, 2025 Duration: 48:08

Joining us this week is a man whose personal story and political mission are inextricably linked. A long-serving MP and the current leader of the Liberal Democrats, he’s also a carer and campaigner whose life has been shaped by love, loss, and a fierce determination to improve the lives of others. It’s Ed Davey!


In this episode, Ed opens up about the defining experiences that have shaped his worldview, from caring for his mother through terminal cancer when he was a child, to raising his son with a rare neurological condition alongside his wife, Emily. He shares how these formative moments inspired his new memoir ‘Why I Care and Why Care Matters’ and why he believes caregiving should be recognised as a central part of both public life and policy.


With warmth, candour and emotional clarity, Ed reflects on the everyday realities of home life, including the relentless fight to access support for his son John, their revolutionary discovery of a treatment facility in Budapest and the unwavering spirit that holds his family together. He also speaks movingly about the lasting influence of his late parents and why gratitude and love, even in the hardest of circumstances, have been his greatest teachers.


Why I Care and Why Care Matters is out now wherever you get your books.


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There’s a particular kind of conversation that happens after a glass or two of wine, where guards come down and real stories emerge. That’s the atmosphere White Wine Question Time captures so perfectly. Hosted by Kate Thornton, each episode gathers well-known friends for a relaxed yet revealing chat, structured around three thoughtful questions and, of course, a shared bottle. What unfolds is less a formal interview and more a glimpse into the genuine friendships behind the public personas. You’ll hear laughter, unexpected confessions, and perspectives on culture, society, and current events that rarely make the headlines. This podcast thrives in the space between entertainment and intimate disclosure, often veering into comedy as these candid discussions unfold. With a vast back catalogue of over 450 episodes, each one feels like pulling up a chair to a fascinating table. Whether you start with the latest release or browse the extensive archive, you’re guaranteed a listen that’s as engaging and relevant as it is genuinely enjoyable.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

White Wine Question Time
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