Civility and respect pledge

Find out about the pledge we have taken to support civility and respect, and read our bullying and harassment statement.

Civility and respect is vital in public life. In recognition of this, Hartford Parish Council has signed up to the Civility and Respect Pledge for local councils.  

By signing the Pledge, Hartford Parish Council agrees that the council will treat councillors, clerks, employees, members of the public, and representatives of partner organisations and volunteers with civility and respect in their roles and that it:

  • Has put in place a training programme for councillors and staff

  • Has signed up to the Code of Conduct for councillors

  • Has good governance arrangements in place including staff contracts and a dignity at work policy

  • Will seek professional help at the early stages should civility and respect issues arise

  • Will commit to calling out bullying and harassment if and when it happens

  • Will continue to learn from best practices in the sector 

  • Supports the continued lobbying for change in legislation to support the Civility and Respect Pledge including sanctions for elected members where appropriate.

Civility and respect in orange with heart shape

Bullying and harassment statement

We treat everyone with courtesy and respect and ask for the same in return. We ask that you treat your councillors and council staff courteously without violence, abuse, or harassment. Councillors and council staff have the right to carry out their civic duties and work without fear of being attacked or abused. 

Any behaviour – whether that be verbal, physical or in writing – which causes councillors or council staff to feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, or threatened, is totally unacceptable. The zero-tolerance policy includes abuse, aggression or threats made in person, over the telephone or in written communication, including on social media.

Hartford Parish Council considers threatening behaviour to be:

  • Attempted or actual aggressive, or physical actions made towards any councillor or member of staff

  • The use of aggressive, or abusive language, (including raising of the voice, swearing, shouting or in writing) which threatens or intimidates councillors or council staff.

This policy applies throughout all Council Meetings and to any Councillor or Council Staff away from Council Meetings.