Conference demands action on rising violence against local government workers

Delegates at the local government conference have backed a motion on violence at work, sharing powerful testimonies about the impact of physical assaults, verbal abuse and threats on frontline staff.

Opening the debate, on Sunday, delegates described violence as a daily reality for many local government employees. 

"Violence at work is not part of the job that any of us should accept," one speaker said. "But for local government workers, it's an everyday reality. Our members face verbal abuse, threats and, in some cases, physical assaults. Too often, these incidents go unsupported."

One delegate working in early years education opened up about her personal experience. "Unfortunately, I've been a victim of violence in school and have the scars to show it," she said.

Another described severe injuries suffered by colleagues. "One was punched in the eye. She has eye damage that cannot be fixed. Another colleague's ankle was broken after she was kicked by a child." She added: "No to violence, yes to better and safer conditions in the workplace."

Conference heard that many workers remain reluctant to report incidents, worrying that they won't be taken seriously, and fearing blame or repercussion. The motion proposes a culture where speaking up is respected by managers.

However, delegates argued that current reporting processes are often inadequate. One representative said that in many schools and early years settings incidents are still recorded on paper, with little confidence that reports are properly logged or acted upon. "We tell people to get a receipt of proof."

Speakers emphasised the importance of proper reporting systems, urging colleagues to "raise it, report it and record it". 

Delegates also highlighted examples where staff had successfully organised for change. One school secured a zero-tolerance approach after workers collectively challenged management.

The debate broadened to concerns about staffing levels and the increasing responsibilities placed on support staff. Conference heard of staff administering life-saving medication, supporting feeding and carrying out intimate care, while only a small number were trained to perform such specialist medical procedures. 

Conference overwhelmingly supported the motion, linking violence at work to wider issues of staffing, pay and working conditions. Delegates concluded that workplace violence should never be accepted as inevitable and called for stronger reporting systems, employer accountability and a culture of zero tolerance across local government services.