Protecting councillors and local elected representatives from harassment, intimidation and violence is crucial to a healthy democracy. The Local Government Association’s new “Must Know: Operation Ford and policing crime against elected members” guidance explains Operation Ford, a national policing initiative designed to strengthen security support for councillors, elected mayors, Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) and candidates for these roles.
Under Operation Ford, every police force now has a Force Elected Official Adviser (FEOA) — a named contact responsible for offering personal security briefings and coordinating responses to threats linked specifically to an individual’s public office or candidacy. This sits alongside the existing Operation Bridger protections for national politicians.
The guidance also explains when and how to report incidents to the police, how councils can support elected members, and what changes during election periods. For any ALDC member concerned about councillor safety or looking to better support colleagues, it’s an essential resource.
Read the full guide here