Chief execs and senior officers warn poor behaviour is becoming “normalised” as standards worsen

The research, conducted by the membership body for senior public sector staff Solace, found that 69% of respondents supported a robust, legally binding standards system with meaningful sanctions.

However, only a third of respondents (38%) believed the Government’s proposed standards reforms will be effective.

Elsewhere, the survey found that poor standards occur more often between councillors and officers (71%) than between councillors and other councillors (63%).

Behaviour appears to be worsening across the board, with 70% of respondents reporting worsening behaviour among the public.

Solace warned that "unacceptable behaviours are becoming embedded", pointing to results showing that nearly two-thirds (62%) of respondents have experienced abuse or intimidation from elected members in the last 12 months, while almost three quarters (74%) said they had suffered similarly from members of the public.

Poor standards are having a tangible impact on local government staff and organisation effectiveness, the report said.

Eight in 10 respondents said they feel some level of personal risk when carrying out their role, and 45% said they have considered leaving their role or have already done so because of these issues.

One in five (23%) meanwhile reported becoming less effective in their job as a result.

Despite most respondents (72%) believing their council takes standards issues seriously, there is clear frustration that existing systems are not delivering meaningful accountability, Solace said.

In November 2025, the Government pledged to introduce a mandatory code of conduct, stronger sanctions (including suspension), and requirements for councils to convene standards committees, among others.

However, the Government has yet to introduce legislation for the reforms. The King's Speech in May omitted the reforms, prompting concerns from Lawyers in Local Government and the Association of Democratic Services Officers.

Earlier this month the Lords Minister for Housing and Local Government, Baroness Taylor, reaffirmed the Government's commitment to overhauling the local government standards and conduct framework "as soon as parliamentary time allows".

Solace has now reiterated a call for the Government to "act immediately" to bring forward a strengthened and enforceable standards regime for local government.

The professional body's President, Robin Tuddenham, said: “Poor behaviour is not inevitable — but without meaningful consequences, it becomes normalised.

"The Government must now move at pace to deliver a strengthened, legally binding standards regime with real sanctions. The sector cannot afford further delay — restoring trust, accountability and professionalism is essential to the effective functioning of local democracy."

Solace Chair, and Chair of Solace’s Commission on Professional Standards and Ethics, Kath O’Dwyer said the current environment is "affecting people’s safety, wellbeing and ability to do their jobs".

She added: "Local government should be a place where respectful, professional relationships enable the delivery of the best outcomes for communities. These findings show that too often this is not the reality for the many who work in the sector.”

Adam Carey