Council backs national #DebateNotHate campaign to promote civility in public life
Posted on: 18 May 2026
Last week (Wednesday, 13 May), Tewkesbury Borough Council announced its support for the Local Government Association’s #DebateNotHate campaign, reaffirming its commitment to respectful political debate and the safety and wellbeing of elected representatives.
The campaign highlights the growing issue of abuse and intimidation directed at councillors and candidates across the country, and calls for a renewed focus on civility, constructive dialogue, and cross‑party collaboration. The Local Government Association states that across the UK, seven in 10 councillors reported experiencing abuse and intimidation over the last 12 months and councillors reported feeling that abuse is becoming more common and increasing in severity.
Speaking on behalf of the council, Cllr Richard Stanley, Leader of Tewkesbury Borough Council, said: “We support the #DebateNotHate campaign because this council believes that, as Jo Cox said in her maiden speech, ‘the truth is that we have more in common than that which divides us.’
“Abuse and intimidation have no place in our politics. Our councillors work hard for their communities, and they deserve to do so without fear, hostility, or harassment.”
The Leader will also be supporting the Debate Not Hate public statement and the council emphasised that healthy democracy depends on open, robust debate conducted with respect. It also highlighted the example set by the late Jo Cox MP, who championed cross party working and consistently modelled civility in public life.
Cllr Ian Yates, ward member for Churchdown Brookfield with Hucclecote, proposed the motion. He added: “I feel it’s important that we are committed to fostering a political culture where disagreement is handled constructively, where diverse voices feel safe to participate, and where collaboration across political divides is not only possible but encouraged.
“We call on residents, partners, and community organisations to join us in promoting a kinder, more respectful public discourse.”
As part of its commitment, Tewkesbury Borough Council will soon be sharing messages across its social media channels, encouraging residents to support the #DebateNotHate movement and reinforcing the importance of respectful engagement in local democracy.
For more information about the national campaign, visit the Local Government Association’s website local.gov.uk
