On Saturday, May 3, I attended a rally organised by staff at City College Brighton and Hove (The Argus, May 5).

Speaking to staff and parents, it was clear that their concerns are not only about job losses but also the effect on students of the proposed cuts to course hours and student support services.

Among courses to be axed are those for adults with learning disabilities.

The proposed cuts and closure of courses which often help the most needy and vulnerable students are of concern, particularly when coupled with the cuts to financial support for students with disabilities in higher education.

At the rally, I spoke in support of the staff and pledged to do all that I could to help staff defend these services.

I call on the college management to carry out an equality impact assessment and reconsider their proposed cuts for these already disadvantaged students.

Purna Sen, Labour Parliamentary candidate for Brighton Pavilion