We are pleased that locally elected representatives will have dedicated police support for security matters for the first time. This is something we have long called for.
Commenting on the announcement of a named policing contact for security matters for councillors, Cllr Marianne Overton, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Civility in Public Life Steering Group said:
“We are pleased the Government has taken steps today to provide improved protections for elected officials in light of a concerning rise in levels of abuse and that locally elected representatives will have dedicated police support for security matters for the first time. This is something we have long called for.
“Our recent analysis showed that eight out 10 councillors felt personally at risk while fulfilling their elected role last year, up 10 per cent from the year before.
“It is profoundly disturbing to hear of reports of councillors being harassed and intimidated whilst doing their job. It should not become the norm that councillors need to install CCTV and panic alarms in their houses to feel safe whilst fulfilling their democratic duty.
“We want to work with the Government to help take much needed steps to protect local councillors whilst they fulfil their democratic duty. This includes ending the legal obligation for a council to publish a councillor’s home address and providing greater police protection for local representatives.
“We must end abuse in public life and encourage healthy debate if we are to safeguard the future of our local democracy.”
Notes to editors
The LGA has laid on additional personal safety support sessions for councillors in light of increased demand and specific local concerns after the Israel and Gaza conflict.