West Bergholt Signs Civility & Respect Pledge
West Bergholt Parish Council signed up to the Civility & Respect Pledge at its meeting on on 29th September 2023.
There are growing concerns about bullying, harassment, and intimidation on local councils, councillors, clerks, and council staff. NALC, with partner organisations, is working to put civility and respect at the top of the agenda. It is intended to start a culture change for the local council sector.
By signing the pledge the Parish Council is committing to treat everyone with civility & respect.
What is the Civility & Respect Pledge?
West Bergholt Parish Council will:
- Treat all councillors, clerk and all employees, members of the public, representatives of partner organisations and volunteers with civility and respect in their role.
- Put in place a training programme for councillors and staff.
- Sign up to Code of Conduct for councillors.
- Have in place good governance arrangements in place including, staff contracts, and Dignity at Work Policy.
- Commit to seek professional help at early stages should civility and respect issues arise.
- Commit to calling out bullying and harassment when if and when it happens.
- Continue to learn from best practice in the sector and aspire to being a role model / champion council e.g., via Local Council Award Scheme.
- Support the continued lobbying for the change in legislation to support the Civility and Respect Pledge including sanctions for elected members where appropriate.