New video showcases how parish and town councils are putting civility and respect at the heart of local democracy

As part of the Civility and Respect Working Group, we have launched a new video highlighting how parish and town councils across England are benefiting from signing up to the Civility and Respect Pledge.

The video features real-life examples from parish and town councils that have committed to creating positive, professional and inclusive working environments for councillors, clerks, council staff and residents.

We launched the Civility and Respect Pledge alongside county associations, One Voice Wales and the Society of Local Council Clerks, which encourages parish and town councils to demonstrate their commitment to improving behaviour, strengthening relationships and fostering a culture where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Through first-hand experiences, the video explores why parish and town councils chose to sign the pledge, the difference it has made within their organisations and why they would encourage others to do the same.

Cllr Tim Hills of Stocksfield Parish Council stated, "Other councils should join the pledge because it's not about just making the decision. It's about the way that decision is made. It's having those difficult conversations at times and doing so in a respectful way. The civility and respect pledge shows very clearly that it's perfectly okay for people to disagree without it turning into conflict."

Cllr Miles MacInnes of Barton and Pooley Bridge Parish Council said, "It's important to show that you have a policy in place for civility and respect because you expect it from others, and therefore, you should be able to reciprocate and respect people with their views."

Cllr Chris Haworth of Cresswell Parish Council commented, "It's a natural extension of how we operate as a council. Sends a message out to the members of the public that you're serious about contributions from them and you're serious about having positive contributions and conversations during the meeting."

Judith Mashiter, clerk of Cotherstone Parish Council, added, "It's no bad thing to actually reflect on whether you're doing everything in the best way with the most civility and respect. Signing the pledge makes the whole civility and respect ethos more explicit for councillors. It also gives them the opportunity to say to the outside world, we are doing the right thing and that raises the reputation of the council."

Graeme Popay, chief officer of the Northumberland Association of Local Councils, concluded the video with a challenge, "My challenge to you is to get your council to sign up to the pledge today. No matter how big your council is, joining the pledge has to be on your agenda this year."

Parish and town interested in joining the growing number of pledge signatories are encouraged to learn more about the Civility and Respect Pledge and take the next step towards building a positive and respectful council culture.