BANES council promises safety measures as it marks the anniversary Jo Cox's murder
The council is championing the Debate Not Hate campaign to combat abuse
Bath & North East Somerset Council is promising to ensure councillors and staff can work safely and free from abuse or intimidation, as the country marks ten years since the death of MP Jo Cox.
Spearheaded by the Local Government Association and supported by The Jo Cox Foundation, Debate Not Hate targets the abuse and intimidation of elected officials while advocating for civil public discourse.
On 16th June, the council commemorates the tenth anniversary of MP Jo Cox's death. Her enduring message was, ‘we have more in common than that which divides us.’
A recent report from a B&NES scrutiny panel highlights the measures being implemented to protect public servants, ensuring they feel secure in their positions.
Reports of unacceptable behaviour have emerged over the past three years, including incidents where one worker was nearly run over, a female staff member was followed and threatened, and another was menaced with a hammer.
While most interactions with the public remain positive, the council acknowledges that aggression and threats do happen. To this end, the council encourages reporting to facilitate necessary action and support.
The council is collaborating with Avon and Somerset Police as part of a nationwide strategy to tackle harassment directed at elected representatives.
Councillors are advised to report any incidents through established channels and liaise with their local policing teams.
Councillor Manda Rigby, Cabinet Member for Communications and Community, stressed the importance of maintaining a respectful environment:
“Robust debate is essential to local democracy; however, abuse and intimidation have no place in public life. Councillors serve their communities and should do so without fear.”
“Debate and challenge are integral to democracy, but abuse and intimidation are intolerable. No councillor or staff member should feel unsafe simply for fulfilling their duties, whether online or offline."
“We uphold a zero-tolerance approach and continue to collaborate with partners to support those affected.”
The council has introduced measures, such as strengthened policies, improved reporting processes, and enhanced guidance for councillors and staff.
Additionally, a guide has been published to help identify and verify online misinformation, alongside social media policies to maintain respectful and safe communication channels.
Ongoing assessments are being conducted to ensure councillors and officers feel supported and secure in their roles.