Council signs anti-violence charter after abuse incidents

East Suffolk Council thinks it is the first local authority in the East of England to sign the charter

A local authority has claimed to be the first in the East of England to sign a charter aimed at ending violence at work.

East Suffolk Council and its trading company East Suffolk Services Limited put their names to UNISON's End Violence at Work Charter.

The local authority said some of its frontline staff in waste management were recently subjected to extreme and threatening behaviour.

"It is with regret that this charter is even needed," said Green party councillor and leader of East Suffolk Council, Caroline Topping.

"Let us not forget, our staff are serving their communities and I thank them for their service."

To qualify for the charter, organisations must meet 10 key standards, providing evidence of clear reporting and investigation procedures, and ongoing data monitoring of violent incidents.

Staff must also be trained to handle threatening situations effectively.

The charter aims to encourage organisations to protect employees working in public services from acts of abuse, assault and intimidating behaviour.

UNISON East Suffolk branch secretary Kerry Rayden said: "No-one should be subjected to violence at work.

"It's fantastic that East Suffolk Council and East Suffolk Services are showing this commitment to employees to keep them safe."

"Hopefully other local employers will follow suit."