Depute Councils Leader Councillor Stuart MacKinnon will be launching ‘Be Nice’ – a council-wide campaign to encourage the public to treat council staff with respect.  The campaign wants to make it clear that physical, verbal or mental violence towards staff is not acceptable.  This is a preventative campaign that aims to make people think before they shout or become violent.  Look out for ‘Be Nice’ posters in council offices, schools, community centres and libraries.

In the year 2009-10, there were 312 incidents of physical abuse against East Lothian Council staff, and a further 79 incidents of verbal abuse.

Councillor MacKinnon says:

‘No one should have to put up with unacceptable behaviour at work.  We hope this campaign with its message of ‘respect us as we respect you’ will help to create a safer and better working environment for all our staff.

‘Most people do treat council staff with respect but unfortunately there are a few who don’t.  It affects all our staff – teachers, social workers, housing officers, repairmen, receptionists, road workers, bin men . . .   Usually, it’s just verbal abuse, but sometimes it’s much worse. 

‘This campaign is about getting people to understand that we’re not there to be shouted at.  Our staff do a good job and deserve respect.  So, if you ever do feel yourself “losing it”, please think twice – and be nice.’