The role of local government is to set out and deliver local priorities and services on behalf of local communities. Councillors are local leaders and champions, bridging the gap between residents and local government but this means that they are visible and often easily accessible to residents. 

While debate and expressing different views is all part of a healthy representative democracy, there is a concern that those in public office are increasingly being subject to of intimidation, harassment and abuse. These unacceptable behaviours undermine the key democratic principles of free speech, debate and engagement, and sometimes pose a risk to councillors’ safety. Thankfully, serious incidents remain very rare. 

The Local Government Association has produced a guide to handling harassment, abuse and intimidation (Councillors’ guide to handling harassment, abuse and intimidation | Local Government Association) and is spearheading a campaign a campaign to promote civility in public life (‘Debate not Hate’). Further details are available here: Civility in public life | Local Government Association.