District urges town and parish councils to ensure councillors follow guidance on responsible use of social media

The council’s Town and Parish Councils’ Standards Sub-Committee had considered a report arising from a complaint made under the Members’ Code of Conduct, which highlighted wider issues around the use of social media by town and parish councillors.

The complaint, received in November 2024, related to the alleged conduct of a local councillor in connection with posts made on social media.

An internal investigator found there was sufficient evidence to indicate potential breaches of the Members’ Code of Conduct - “specifically in relation to respect, bringing the office into disrepute, and misuse of position - arising from the councillor’s use of social media”, said the council.

The report was finalised in October 2025. However, prior to a scheduled hearing of the Sub-Committee on 12 February, the councillor concerned resigned from office.

The council noted: “As a result, they are no longer bound by the Members’ Code of Conduct and a hearing was therefore not required. In accordance with the council’s procedures, no determination has been made as to whether the code was breached.”

The Sub-Committee instead considered the broader learning arising from the case, particularly in relation to the use of social media by town and parish councillors.

It then agreed a series of recommendations aimed at helping town and parish councils to support their councillors in maintaining high standards of conduct.

Town and parish councils were advised to:

• Familiarise themselves with existing social media guidance — such as the national guidance published by the Local Government Association.
• Ensure they have appropriate, up-to-date policies and procedures in place for social media use.

Councils were also urged to deliver suitable training so that the requirements of relevant guidance and policies remain “at the forefront” of councillors’ minds - helping them fully understand and uphold their responsibilities.

Cllr Dan Casey, Chairman of the Town and Parish Councils’ Standards Sub-Committee, said: “While this particular case did not proceed to a hearing, it has highlighted the challenges that social media can present for councillors at all levels of local government.

“The committee noted that social media can raise complex issues for those holding public office, balancing the right to freedom of expression with the need to maintain high standards of conduct and public confidence in local democracy.

“Our focus is on advising town and parish councils to maintain high standards of conduct by ensuring their councillors are properly equipped with clear and current guidance when engaging online in their role as elected representatives.”

Lottie Winson