The LGA is offering a series of fully funded workshops for councillors on issues relating to handling abuse and intimidation by the public.
We have commissioned an expert contractor to provide support to councillors on abuse and intimidation experienced by councillors from the public.
A series of free, national online events for councillors will be held during 2023/4, covering personal safety and dealing with online abuse and intimidation. The sessions will provide up-to-date advice on:
- keeping yourself safe while undertaking your role as a councillor
- how to manage your online presence
- sources of help and support
- the opportunity to ask questions of our expert presenter.
The first sessions will be specifically aimed at newly or recently-elected councillors and can be booked via the links below:
Personal safety for newly-elected councillors – Tuesday 27 June 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Handling online abuse and intimidation – Wednesday 12 July 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Support for individual councils
We hope to be able to offer tailored sessions for councils, or groups of councils, later in the year once funding is confirmed. If you would like to register your council’s interest in this offer, please email [email protected]
Debate Not Hate
Debating and disagreeing with one another is a healthy part of democracy, but abuse and intimidation crosses the line into dangerous territory. The right engagement matters.
Handling abuse and intimidation
The LGA has produced a range of guidance to support councillors to deal with the range of behaviours they may encounter while fulfilling their role and engaging with residents.
Civility in public life report
Increasing intimidation of politicians and increasing toxicity of public debate is having an impact on the democracy of our country.