Published Thursday, 19th June 2025
The Council has agreed to take a zero-tolerance approach to the abuse and intimidation of councillors and staff.
The agreement – unanimously approved by all political group leaders at Full Council in July 2024 - is part of a national campaign by the Local Government Association to raise public awareness of the role of councillors in communities and to encourage healthy debate. It seeks to improve support for local politicians and officers who face intimidation and abuse in the course of performing their duties.
Political group leaders with Council Leader and Chief Executive
A survey of all councillors in England conducted by the LGA in 2024, found that seven in 10 respondents experienced abuse or intimidation in the previous 12 months. Only 27 per cent reported to have never had any such experiences.
Councillors at Reigate & Banstead have agreed to work together on a cross-party basis to set an example of healthy debate and to tackle abusive or threatening behaviour from anyone within the community, on social media, and in-person.
The Council also pledged to use its existing communication channels to remind everyone that while democracy thrives on open and frank debate, this should never turn into personal abuse.
As we roll out this campaign now, we want to ensure that all councillors and staff understand what abuse and intimidation looks like, and what actions everyone can take. We also want to make sure that everyone understands that support is available for those experiencing abuse and intimidation.
More information about the campaign and the impact of abuse on local democracy is available on the LGA website.