A new campaign aiming to tackle abuse and intimidation of councillors, and protect democratic life and people’s engagement in local politics, has been supported by councillors ahead of the May elections.

Councillors on Ribble Valley’s personnel committee have backed a recommendation to join the Local Government Association’s (LGA) ‘Debate Not Hate’ campaign.

Seven out of 10 councillors across the country have reported experiences of abuse or intimidation in the past year, according to a warning from the LGA.

This can impact on councillors and their families’ mental and physical health, deter people from entering politics, stop existing councillors standing for re-election, and make aggression in politics appear normal.

In addition, some local councillors are increasingly worried about their safety at public venues or at home. Councillors do not have security or protection that national politicians at Westminster may have.

The new campaign aims to raise public awareness of the role of councillors in  communities, encourage healthy debate and improve the responses and support for local politicians who face abuse and threats.

Recommendations include action by councils, the police and social media firms. The campaign materials are free for councils to use.

Dawn Storey, the council’s head of human resources, told councillors “There is a new package for councils which includes posters, banners to go on e-mails and advice for individual councillors who may be experiencing abuse or intimidation.

"There is also information about the rights of political engagement and advice for councillors and others for on-ine meetings, such as on Zoom or Teams.

“More than 400 councillors across the country have signed-up to the campaign so far.  The aim is to encourage healthy political debate along with support for local councillors who may be experiencing problems.”

Conservative Cllr Stephen Atkinson, borough leader, said: "This was raised at the LGA's conference in Harrogate and some examples were given then.

“We have had some issues here in the Ribble Valley. One councillor who is active on social media has had problems, which has been reported to the relevant authorities.

“I think it would help if people who are active on social media had access to the posters, e-mails banners and information. It would help them to respond to those who are attacking and to diffuse situations.”

Lib-Dem Cllr Donna O’Rourke agreed with the campaign but added: “The only other thing I would suggest is councillors get their facts and information right. That is where some of the backlash comes from.”