A Hampshire county councillor will retain his seat despite prolonged absence from public meetings after being granted a leave of absence due to serious health issues.

Cllr Adam Jackman, who represents the Conservative ward of Farnborough South, has been diagnosed with severe osteoporosis and has experienced ongoing health problems for some time.

According to a report presented to Hampshire County Council, recent changes to his medication have caused significant physical and mental side effects, leaving him unable to travel.

The council’s conduct advisory panel has approved a leave of absence for Cllr Jackman until May 7, 2026.

The approval ensures he will not lose his seat under Section 85 of the Local Government Act 1972.

The Act states that a councillor risks losing their seat if they do not attend meetings for six months, unless the council grants formal approval for their absence.

Cllr Jackman last attended a meeting on May 22, 2025, at the council’s annual general meeting.

As the six-month non-attendance period expired on November 22, the panel formally approved the extension to prevent his seat from becoming vacant.

Despite his ill health, Cllr Jackman continues to handle casework from home.