LGA Survey Reveals Surge in Abuse Against Councillors

The Local Government Association reports a surge in abuse and intimidation targeting councillors across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. According to the Debate Not Hate survey of over 1,500 officials, 52% of respondents believe harassment has increased over the past year, while 78% feel they are at personal risk.

The abuse disproportionately affects women, ethnic minority, and LGBTQ+ councillors, often driving them to leave politics. The survey found that 38% of women and 43% of ethnic minority respondents who are considering not standing for re-election cited abuse as a contributing factor.

In response to the toxic culture, councillors are no longer required to publish their home addresses on council websites, and police forces have appointed elected official advisers. The LGA is now calling on the government, police, and social media platforms to establish formal arrangements to combat the trend.