Thursday October 29th 2026
West Lothian Civic Centre
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Stuart Sommerville
West Lothian Council will donate £1,000 to a national foundation aimed at protecting those who serve the public as councillors.
The Jo Cox Foundation, named after an MP murdered in 2016, supports elected representatives and candidates across the UK.
Linlithgow’s Lib Dem councillor Sally Pattle told the meeting she welcomed the continued commitment to the fund it first supported in 2024.
A report to the council’s Executive this week said: “The Foundation advocates for practical improvements to elected member safety, security and well-being and has influenced national policy discussions on protecting councillors and other elected office holders.”
Since Ms Cox’s murder another MP, Conservative Sir David Ames has also been murdered- attacked in his constituency office and stabbed in 2021.
There has been a coarsening of public debate in the last decade. It has been fuelled by extremist politicians trying the leverage power on the back of issues such as immigration and the cost of living crisis.
It has been backed up by irresponsible and incendiary social media commentators.
The growing intolerance, and lack of respect in debate is leaving many – especially women – discouraged from seeking election.
As local council elections loom next May, some elected councillors are choosing to walk away from what they fear is an increasingly hostile environment.
Commentators fear social media driven hate is a fundamental threat to democracy.
A recent survey conducted by the Local Government Association reported that more than 78% of councillors feel at least some level of personal risk when fulfilling their role in elected office, with over 85% of female, ethnic minority, LGBT+ or disabled councillors reporting feeling at risk.
Referencing the survey results, Cllr Shona Morrison, the President of CoSLA, the local government umbrella body, said: “The results of the survey evidence what many elected members know to be true – that abuse and harassment is far too common an experience for councillors.
“Councillors and councils are a vital part of democracy, and it is unacceptable that 81% of Scottish councillors have felt some level of risk whilst carrying out their role.
“With local government elections taking place next year, there is a real concern that we will lose talented, experienced and committed councillors due to this environment.
“Protecting elected members is essential to protecting local democracy, and urgent action is needed to ensure councillors can represent their communities safely, confidently and effectively.”
A report to the Executive added: “Since the previous report, West Lothian Council has continued to support the safety, well-being and inclusion of elected members through a range of local and national initiatives.
“The council remains engaged with CoSLA and national working groups considering barriers to elected office, elected member welfare and civility in public life.
“The council is also aware of and promotes relevant safety arrangements available to elected members, including Police Scotland’s Operation Ford initiative. The council remains committed to ensuring that councillors can carry out their democratic duties safely, confidently and without fear of abuse or intimidation.”
Councillor Pattle welcomed the report: She told the meeting: “I think we all agree we wish this work wasn’t necessary and I think we all recognise the value and of the work this foundation.
“I’m really proud that the council is agreeing to continue that support.”
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