Bracknell Councillor Apologises for Medical Disclosure

A councillor in Bracknell must apologise after divulging a man’s medical information during a ‘chaotic’ debate about immigration.

A Bracknell councillor is set to apologise after revealing a man’s medical information during a chaotic immigration debate.

Councillor Jodie Watts (Labour, Harmans Water & Crown Wood) admitted that a Facebook discussion spiralled out of control, leading to her disclosing sensitive details about Mr Cunningham, who later lodged an official complaint.

The Bracknell Forest Council meeting aimed to address the incident, with an investigation led by deputy monitoring officer Helen Brewster, who confirmed that Cllr Watts had shared private health information.

Brewster noted that while Watts initially defended her comments, she later deleted the specific medical details after being challenged in the thread.

Cllr Watts explained, “I mentioned it in defence against untruths he was spreading about me. I only referenced his diagnosis because it was publicly discussed.” She added, “I never would have disclosed it otherwise, and I apologise; it won’t happen again.”

Diana Anderson, an independent advisor, questioned how councillors engage with the public on social media. Watts responded that not all councillors use social media, and the debate descended into chaos when Mr Cunningham dismissed her points.

Brewster concluded that sharing personal health information crosses a crucial boundary, stressing that it can lead to distress and undermine trust in elected officials. Cllr Watts stated she only mentioned a potential diagnosis and acknowledged the need for an apology.

Independent advisor Heather Quilish remarked that Watts had breached the council’s code of conduct. Conservative Councillor Nick Allen announced that Watts would receive training and issue a public apology.

The panel decision, made on October 16, included Cllrs Allen, Kathryn Neal (Labour, Binfield South & Jennett’s Park), and Adrian Haffegee (Green, Binfield North & Warfield West). The case has been referred to the Labour whip for further action.

Cllr Watts chairs the education, skills and growth overview and scrutiny panel.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter