Warning over abuse on county council employees

Residents are being warned that abuse and violence towards council staff will not be tolerated after two people were prosecuted for assaulting a civil parking enforcement officer, Powys County Council has said.

The authority confirmed the convictions but did not specify where the incidents took place, although it is known that one man was convicted after an incident in Welshpool last month.

Council staff carry out parking enforcement and other public-facing duties across the county.

Emma Palmer, the council’s Chief Executive, said: “Our staff deserve to feel safe and respected at work. They are simply doing their jobs on behalf of the communities they live in and serve. We will not accept staff being threatened, intimidated or assaulted under any circumstances.”

The council said it operates a zero tolerance approach to abuse directed at its workforce, including physical violence, verbal abuse, harassment and intimidation.

It added that it would continue to work with police where necessary to protect staff.

“Most people engage with us politely and constructively, and we thank them for that,” Emma said.

“However, incidents like this are deeply concerning. Nobody should come to work fearing for their safety.”

Residents wishing to raise concerns about council services are being encouraged to use formal complaints procedures.