Former Lord Mayor selected as Labour's candidate in upcoming Sheffield by-election
She previously lost her seat in the May local elections
Sheffield’s former Lord Mayor is returning to politics two months after she lost her seat in the local elections.
Jayne Dunn has been officially announced as Labour’s candidate for the upcoming Southey by-election, set to take place on August 27.
She had previously served as a councillor in the ward since 2016, however on May 7 this year lost her seat to Reform UK’s Yvonne Sykes.
“It is a real honour to have been selected to stand in Southey – an area I care deeply about and was proud to represent for ten years,” Jayne said.
“The result in May was painful. I loved serving our area and I have reflected carefully on what residents told us. May’s results sent Labour a clear national message, and we have heard it. With Andy Burnham now as Prime Minister, Labour is showing it has listened by taking practical action on the cost of living.
“People want change they can see in their everyday lives – safer and cleaner streets, more help with household costs and better local services.
“I have always believed that being a councillor begins at grassroots level - being present in the community, listening to people, standing up for them and making sure their voices are heard. Whether helping residents with individual problems, campaigning for pot hole repairs or helping to organise the Easter family event at Cookson Park, my job has always been to be their voice.”
On top of her previous role as councillor, Jayne served as Lord Mayor of Sheffield between 2025 and 2026.
She has suggested that if she were to return to council, her focus would be on making everyday life more affordable for the people in Southey, as well holding public contractor Amey to account over pothole concerns.
Beyond this, she hopes to introduce free breakfast clubs to all primary schools in the ward and work to tackle anti-social behaviour.
Jayne added: “I know personally what it is like to raise a child on benefits, live in social housing and worry about keeping a roof over your head. I also know the difference that the right support, education and opportunities can make. That experience has always shaped my politics and why I fight for people who too often feel overlooked.
“The £20 million Pride in Place investment for Parson Cross and Fox Hill is an enormous opportunity to make lasting improvements. If elected, I will work alongside residents, community organisations and Local MP Gill Furniss and Councillor Mike Chaplin to make sure it delivers the change local people want to see.
“I know how the council works and how to turn residents’ concerns into action. I will be a visible and accessible councillor, working hard at grassroots level every day".
Councillor Fran Belbin, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said: “I am delighted Jayne is standing. She understands the pressures families face, knows Southey’s communities and has the experience, compassion and determination to deliver for local people. She’s a force of nature who never stops working for residents.
“Sheffield Labour is focused on making everyday life more affordable and getting the basics right in every neighbourhood. This by-election is a clear contest between Labour and Reform.
“It’s clear Reform councillors aren’t up to the job. Two of Sheffield’s Reform councillors elected in May have already left the party. Jayne offers Southey serious, stable and hardworking representation.”