COUNCILLORS are set to be asked to approve a statement promoting a zero tolerance approach to abuse of authority staff in Argyll and Bute.
A draft message was agreed by the council’s employee joint consultative committee in February, and is now set to be put before the full council.
It warns of the consequences of abusive behaviour towards council workers, and once approved, will be shared publicly.
The full council will be asked to approve the message at its meeting on Wednesday, April 29.
The statement says: “Argyll and Bute Council employees deliver services that local communities depend upon every day. Our employees have the right to do that safely, and without fear of aggression.
“Argyll and Bute Council has a zero tolerance approach to abuse, including verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, harassment, or physical violence directed towards our employees.
“Such behaviour is unacceptable in any circumstance and will not be tolerated. Anyone who engages in abusive or aggressive conduct towards council staff may be asked to leave council premises, refused service, or have their access to council officers restricted.
“Where required, incidents will be reported to the police and legal action may be taken.
“Our employees and the services they deliver are key to life in Argyll and Bute. We ask all members of the public to treat our staff with courtesy and respect, for everyone’s benefit.”
Executive director Kirsty Flanagan also said in a report: “The purpose of this report is to propose a joint statement is released to demonstrate both council and joint trades unions support a zero tolerance approach to abuse, including verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, harassment, or physical violence directed towards our employees.
“This proposal comes in the context of increasing reported incidents nationally. COSLA (Convention of Scottish Local Authorities) issued a national statement in September 2025 in response to increasing national concern.
“This statement shows a continued local commitment to ensuring our staff can carry out their duties safely without fear of aggression.”
