LGA publishes guidance on safe canvassing practices
The Local Government Association (LGA) has released new guidance on safe canvassing, in response to concerns expressed by councillors and candidates regarding possible instances of harassment.
The guidance sets out a series of dos and don'ts and includes seven principles to engage safely with people while out canvassing.
The seven principles recommend canvassers:
- Be prepared, not scared: Regularly assess risks, seek available training and support, including advice from local police, parties, or council, and trust your instincts for personal safety during canvassing to ensure a confident and secure approach.
- Focus on group safety: Whenever possible, canvass in groups or pairs for safety – and because it is more enjoyable! Inform others of your whereabouts if canvassing alone. Prioritise team safety by halting and discussing any incidents that may occur.
- Actively communicate with the team and set periodic check-ins: Share canvassing plans with the team and trusted contacts, establishing regular check-ins for safety.
- Use technology to make canvassing safer: Use available technological aids like wearable devices and tracking apps for mobile phones. Get familiar with their emergency features to enhance safety while canvassing. Familiarise yourself with smartphone security functions beforehand and align technology choices with the risk assessment for canvassing.
- Be security aware: Prioritise safety and security when canvassing. Try carrying only essentials and avoid going into residents' homes. When available, follow party do-not-knock lists and update them if you encounter any problem.
- Keep a record: Maintain a detailed incident log and report any uncomfortable situations encountered while canvassing. Sharing incident reports with both your party and the council/police ensures appropriate awareness and action.
- Prioritise aftercare and set emergency protocols: Offer team support after any experiences of abuse or intimidation, prioritising aftercare. Debrief sessions should encourage sharing experiences and seeking support, focusing on both positive and negative encounters. Periodically review emergency response procedures.
The document also details "physical top tips", such as using a wooden spatula to push leaflets through letter boxes instead of your fingers to avoid risk of "ordinary injury and also dogs".
The guidance also recommends that canvassers always have a clear exit route and a fully charged phone.
The LGA said the advice is based on an analysis of over 17 guidelines sourced from various national and international institutions as well as political parties.
The full document can be read here.
Adam Carey
