Council reminder it won't tolerate abuse to staff

11 Oct 2023 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

Northumberland County Council is reminding residents it won’t tolerate abuse being directed at staff. 

With the county’s reputation for friendliness, the vast majority of residents in Northumberland are polite and welcoming to staff. 

However a small number of incidents, verbal abuse both in person and online have highlighted the problem towards employees. 

Council Leader Glen Sanderson said: “The professionalism and dedication of Council staff is second to none. 

“Every day I am proud to see the work they do the length and breadth of this county to help people, keep vulnerable residents safe, improve our towns and villages and keep the county moving. 

“And while the great majority of our residents are respectful and friendly, we have been made aware of a small number of incidents of unpleasant or inappropriate behaviour towards staff – both in-person and online.” 

Cllr Sanderson said that Council staff and councillors are entitled to a safe workplace. 

“Verbal abuse and threatening behaviour is simply not acceptable, and that includes cowardly online comments directed at individuals. We would expect everyone to treat each other with kindness and respect. 

“We have well-established complaint handling procedures and if residents have a complaint, they can raise it through the appropriate channels. 

“As a Council we will do everything within our powers to protect staff and Councillors. We will not tolerate aggressive, abusive or threatening behaviour.” 

To support staff the Council has published a new guide to help staff understand the reporting routes and support options available in any given situation, to safeguard their wellbeing and that of others. It also contains information about what steps to take after an incident, how to identify and report the unacceptable behaviour they’ve experienced, and where to find support.