Civility and Respect

Published: 19 December 2022

CIVILITY AND RESPECT

Throughout the Local Government sector, there are growing concerns about the impact that bullying, harassment and intimidation are having on local (parish and town) councils, councillors, clerks and council staff resulting the effectiveness of local councils. Civility and Respect should be at the heart of public life and good governance is fundamental to ensuring an effective and well function democracy at all levels.

The intimidation, abuse, bullying and harassment of councillors, professional officers and staff, in person or online, is totally unacceptable; whether that is by councillors, professional officers, staff or members of the public.

The Civility and Respect Pledge has been introduced because there is no place for bullying, harassment or intimidation. Sutton Parish Council is committed to standing up to poor behaviour across our sector and will drive positive changes which support civil and respectful conduct.

By signing the Pledge, Sutton Parish Council agrees that the council will treat councillors, clerks, employees, members of the public, and representatives of partner organisations and volunteers with civility and respect.

Sutton Parish Council confirms that it:

• Has put in place a training programme for councillors and staff
• Has signed up to the Code of Conduct for councillors
• Has good governance arrangements in place including staff contracts and a dignity at work policy
• Will seek professional help at the early stages should civility and respect issues arise
• Will commit to calling out bullying and harassment if and when it happens
• Will continue to learn from best practices in the sector and aspire to be a role model/champion council through for example the Local Council Award Scheme
• Supports the continued lobbying for change in legislation to support the Civility and Respect Pledge including sanctions for elected members where appropriate