As part of Wem Rural Parish Council’s ongoing commitment to promoting a positive, respectful, and supportive environment, we are proud to mark Anti-Bullying Week with a renewed focus on our Civility and Respect Pledge. This initiative is a core part of our dedication to ensuring that all members of our community, including those we work with and represent, experience kindness, inclusivity, and fairness.
Civility and Respect Pledge: Our Foundation for Positive Change
In the spirit of fostering good relationships, the Parish Council has signed the Civility and Respect Pledge. This pledge is a public commitment to creating and maintaining a working environment where all councillors, staff, and the local community feel valued, respected, and safe. It aims to eliminate all forms of bullying, harassment, and intimidation, encouraging constructive dialogue and teamwork.
As part of this ongoing commitment, we have been reviewing and revising our Code of Conduct. This review aims to ensure that it reflects our values of respect, civility, and fairness. We believe that everyone has the right to work in an atmosphere where mutual respect is a foundation for collaboration, and any form of bullying or harassment is unequivocally unacceptable.
Councillor Interviews: Ensuring Positive and Collaborative Working Relationships
In addition to the pledge, we are taking proactive steps to ensure that the principles of civility and respect are ingrained in the culture of Wem Rural Parish Council. As part of this, we have initiated a questionnaire for each of our councillors to continue to have a positive and collaborative approach to working together.
The questionnaire is an opportunity for councillors to reflect on their own experiences, offer suggestions and find out if any further work is needed to raise awareness of campaigns such as anti-bullying. Our aim is to ensure that every councillor feels empowered to contribute in a manner that is respectful and constructive, and to address any concerns about how we can work more effectively as a team.
The interviews are not only about assessing individual councillors’ experiences but also about building a deeper understanding of how we can uphold our pledge in a practical, day-to-day context. By creating an open and honest forum for discussion, we aim to strengthen our council’s cohesion and ensure that every voice is heard.
Reviewing Our Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct is a vital tool for any council, setting out the expectations for behaviour and conduct of councillors. As part of our commitment to the Civility and Respect Pledge, we are undertaking a comprehensive review of our Code to ensure it is aligned with best practices and reflects the values we hold dear.
The review process is an opportunity to make sure that our Code of Conduct is both comprehensive and clear, addressing issues such as bullying, harassment, and inappropriate behaviour, while also emphasising positive conduct, good communication, and mutual respect. We believe that a strong and effective Code of Conduct is essential in maintaining a positive working environment and setting the standard for everyone involved with the council.
Looking Ahead: A Culture of Civility and Respect
Anti-Bullying Week serves as an important reminder of the need for respect and kindness in all areas of life, including within our councils, schools, workplaces, and communities. By supporting this initiative, Wem Rural Parish Council is sending a clear message that we stand against bullying in any form and are committed to building a culture where everyone feels safe, heard, and respected.
Our commitment to the Civility and Respect Pledge is not just about signing a document—it is about making tangible changes that have a positive impact on how we work together, make decisions, and serve our community. By continuing to engage in open dialogue, reviewing our processes, and prioritising respect in every aspect of our work, we hope to create a model of collaboration that can be emulated across other councils and organisations.
Wem Rural Parish Council remains committed to fostering an environment of mutual respect, where every councillor, member of staff, and resident can thrive. Together, we will continue to work towards a more inclusive, kind, and supportive future for all.
