Abbott has worked in communications for several companies, and as an assistant to a Member of Parliament.[2] He has been a teaching assistant at an Ipswich school, and was a Westminster lobbyist prior to his election to Parliament.[3][4]
He was elected as Member of Suffolk County Council for Bridge ward in Ipswich in 2017. Abbott served as the Labour spokesperson for Children’s Services, Education and Skills on the Council, and didn't seek re-election in 2021.