The Local Government Association is urging people to engage in
positive, constructive debates ahead of the upcoming local
elections and to find out more about the role of local
councillors.
Local elections are a great opportunity for residents to have a
say in who their local leaders are and shape the future of their
communities. This May will see around 5,000 seats elected in
councils of all types across England and Wales.
However, across the UK there are growing concerns about levels of
public intimidation and toxicity of debate in local politics,
both online and in person. This behaviour not only risks the
personal safety and wellbeing of councillors but also undermines
the fabric of local democracy.
The LGA, which represents councils across England and Wales, is
encouraging everyone to set a positive tone during this election
period, leaving behind toxic discourse when engaging with local
candidates and representatives.
Increased participation within local democracy is something that
councils strive for, as broadening the diversity of people
standing as candidates and of those engaging with the elected
helps councils make better informed decisions for their
communities.
It is therefore important that members of the public can approach
and work with their local councillors; it’s also important that
councillors feel safe to work with residents without fear of
negative reprisal, whether it be physical or verbal.
LGA Chairman, Cllr James Jamieson and the LGA’s Group Leaders,
said:
“Councillors play a unique role in representing the needs of
residents, often working together cross-party to tackle important
local issues and to improve the quality of life of local people.
“Robust and lively debate in our councils and with our residents
is a crucial part of the democratic process. Differences of
opinion and the defence of those opinions through councillors’
arguments and public debate are an essential part of the cut and
thrust of political life.
“But we hear too many harrowing stories from councillors and
officers about the harassment and intimidation they face. This is
unacceptable and damages our democracy by forcing people from
public service.
“As we approach the May local elections, I urge residents to find
out more about the important role of councillors representing and
leading their communities and engage in positive, constructive
conversations and debates, to help make local democracy a
welcoming environment for all.”
Notes to Editors
- LGA Group Leaders are Cllr (Labour), Cllr Izzi Seccombe
(Conservative), Cllr Joe Harris (Liberal Democrat) and Cllr
Marianne Overton (Independent and other political parties).
- The LGA is taking forward a significant programme of work to
help improve civility in public
life.
- The latest episode of the LGA’s Forget What You
Think You Know Podcast(live from 22 March) features
discussion around the role of local councillors and interviews
with figures from local government.
- The LGA is encouraging people to remember the 5 rules of
engagement when engaging with local councillors which were
commissioned by the LGA as part of our work to help councillors
and candidates with Digital citizenship.
- Expressing disagreement with courtesy, respect and politeness
- Do not message abuse, threats or harassment
- Racist, sexist, ableist, homophobic, transphobic or ageist
discrimination will not be tolerated
- Do not share false or unverified information
- Full transparency is important, people should not message
anonymously.
