Rebecca has worked extensively across the BBC and Channel 5, with highlights including:
– Watchdog / Watchdog Daily (BBC One): Co-presenter and investigator
– Shop Well for Less (BBC One): Presenter focused on family budgeting and smart spending
– The Secret Life of Your Clothes (BBC Two): Documentary exploring the hidden global trade in second-hand clothing
– The Big Body Hotel (BBC Three): A unique, body-positive series tackling issues around size, health, and confidence
– The School That Tried to End Racism (Channel 4): Contributor on a landmark social experiment
She’s also appeared on The One Show, This Morning, and BBC Radio for commentary and analysis on consumer and lifestyle issues.
Rebecca Wilcox | Childline
In 2024, when her mother Esther Rantzen was diagnosed with terminal cancer, Rebecca took over the Headship of Childline. Esther had founded Childline in 1986, the first national helpline for children in danger or distress. In 2023, ChildLine gave 2,879 counselling sessions – a 5% increase on the year before – relating to abuse and, within these, 52% of children discussed being verbally abused or shouted at.
Rebecca has recognised how many children are suffering with very grown-up traumatic issues that would floor many adults, with support in the social care system lacking. With this trauma becoming increasingly overwhelming, Childline is there to provide a safe space for young people to discuss their problems.
Rebecca Wilcox | Assisted Dying
Rebecca has emerged as a prominent advocate for the legalisation of assisted dying in the UK, drawing from personal experience and a commitment to compassionate end-of-life choices. Her advocacy intensified following her mother, Dame Esther Rantzen’s, diagnosis with stage four lung cancer in 2023.
In her testimony to Parliament, Rebecca emphasised that her mother sought not to shorten her life but to avoid a prolonged and painful death. Rebecca has been vocal in urging MPs to consider the perspectives of their constituents over personal religious beliefs, advocating for legislation that provides terminally ill individuals with the autonomy to choose a dignified end.
She has made several public engagements, including appearances on national media and participation in campaigns like Dignity in Dying, to raise publicity for the cause and create a national debate.
