ABOUT

Throughout the Local Council sector, there are growing concerns about the impact bullying, harassment, and intimidation are having on local (parish and town) councils, councillors, clerks and council staff and the resulting effectiveness of local councils.

The National Association of Local Councils (NALC), the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) and county associations have responded to this and have introduced The Civility and Respect Pledge. There is no place for bullying, harassment and intimidation within our sector. Herstmonceux Parish Council has signed up to the Civility and Respect Pledge.

The Pledge

Herstmonceux Parish Council agrees to treat other councillors, clerks, all employees, members of the public, and representatives of partner organisations and volunteers with civility and respect in their roles

and that Council:

• 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 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

Adopted by Herstmonceux Parish Council in October 2022