No Excuse for Abuse: Wiltshire Council stands up for local frontline workers

Friday, 1 August 2025 06:05

Wiltshire Council has launched a new campaign – No Excuse for Abuse – to raise awareness about the unacceptable treatment some of its staff and contractors face while simply doing their jobs and serving their communities.

While incidents may not happen every day, abuse towards frontline workers is a real and ongoing issue that needs to be addressed, as incidents are on the rise.

Council officers and contractors are not just workers in uniform – they are people who live and work in Wiltshire. They are neighbours, friends, and fellow community members, all dedicated to delivering essential services that keep the county running smoothly.

In the past year, there were 228 recorded incidents of abuse directed at Wiltshire Council staff. This includes verbal and physical abuse, as well as threatening behaviour, affecting teams across vital council services. Contractors who collect waste and help to maintain Wiltshire’s roads and public spaces have also reported similar experiences.

Cllr Mel Jacob, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, said: “Our staff and contractors work hard every day to support our communities. They deserve to be treated with kindness and respect.

“These are people who live and work in Wiltshire, who work hard and do their best to help our communities and make our county a great place to live.

“Abuse of any kind is never acceptable, and we will always take it seriously. We’re proud of our teams and committed to ensuring they can do their jobs safely.

“Together, we can create a more respectful and supportive community for everyone.”

The No Excuse for Abuse campaign is a powerful reminder that everyone deserves a safe and respectful working environment.

The council is also encouraging residents to speak up. If people witness abuse towards council staff or contractors, they can report it by calling 0300 456 0100.