Today (23rd of May) the Conservative Group motion, which looks to recognise and support local councillors in the face of abuse, passed unanimously at the Full Council Meeting of Suffolk County Council. The motion acknowledged the alarming findings that 88% of locally elected representatives have faced abuse and intimidation, with 73% of incidents occurring over social media. Recognizing the significant impact of such behaviour on the health and well-being of its members and their families, the Council has pledged to challenge the normalization of abuse against elected politicians and uphold exemplary standards of public and political debate.
To achieve these goals, the Council has resolved to take a zero-tolerance approach to abuse of councillors and officers, challenge the normalization of such abuse, and uphold exemplary standards of public and political debate.
Additionally, the Council has committed to establishing clear reporting mechanisms to monitor and record incidents of harassment and abuse and to work closely with local law enforcement to ensure a clear and joined-up mechanism for reporting threats and concerns about the safety of councillors, officers, and their families.
Furthermore, the Council has agreed to re-affirm its commitment to the Local Government Association's Debate Not Hate campaign, which aims to raise public awareness of the role of councillors in local communities, encourage healthy debate, and improve the response to and support for those in public life facing abuse and intimidation.
By taking these proactive measures, Suffolk County Council aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for its elected representatives, fostering constructive and respectful dialogue in the public sphere.
Councillor Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said:
"I am glad to see that our motion, spearheaded by the LGA Debate Not Hate campaign, has passed unanimously. There is a growing amount of abuse towards elected representatives and officers. We wish to use this motion to challenge this normalisation. As local councillors, we wish to represent and champion our residents to the best of our ability, and while we understand residents can be passionate about issues, fears of abuse can severely impact councillors. I am glad to see members across the political spectrum voted to pass this motion."
Councillor Nathan Wilson said:
"We became councillors because we want to make a difference in our communities and we cannot allow the fear of abuse to cloud our work. This issue is not just reserved for Councillors alone. Which is why this motion also recognises the abuse officers, public servants, and social workers face."
