Labour councillor defects to Greens over SEND plan

A councillor has announced his exit from the Labour party over his concerns about the government's "under-resourced" plans for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

South Gloucestershire councillor Sean Rhodes - who has represented Kingswood since 2023 - said he would defect to the Green Party as it had a "clear focus" on improving the lives of disadvantaged and underrepresented members of the community.

Earlier this year, the government published plans to reform the SEND system following a rise in demand and cost.

A spokesperson for the South Gloucestershire Labour Party said it was "saddened" by Rhodes' departure but added that its work "continues as normal".

Rhodes, a child psychologist, said the government's SEND reform plans were the "final straw" for him.

Despite his "real concerns" over the plans which were announced in February, Rhodes said he had maintained his position with the party since then in a bid to finish several projects in Kingswood.

Rhodes helped to secure a new operator for Grimsbury Farm and contributed to a controversial change in parking charges in the town as part of his Communities and Local Place role.

He said he had also supported residents in disputes with landlords and had helped disabled people apply for grants to make adaptations to their homes.

"As part of the South Gloucestershire Council administration, we have worked hard to improve the lives of residents in ever more difficult economic circumstances but the Labour government have absolutely failed in their promise to bring positive change to our country," he said.

"When I see the under-resourced plans the government has for children with special educational needs and disabilities, I know that the Green Party is my real home."

He said he "remains committed" to the people of Kingswood and South Gloucestershire.

A South Gloucestershire Labour Group spokesperson said they were "saddened" by Rhodes' resignation.

"Our work continues as normal and residents can be reassured that there will be no interruption to local services or representation," they said.

Green Party leader Zack Polanski welcomed Rhodes as the first district councillor in South Gloucestershire.

"Greens in South Gloucestershire are committed to improving the lives of local residents and protecting our local environment," he said.

The Labour Party has been approached for comment.

Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.