News Female councillors unite to champion safety in public life and remember MP Jo Cox on the 10th anniversary of her murder
Female councillors from across Maidstone Borough Council came together in a cross-party show of solidarity to mark the 10th anniversary of the tragic murder of MP Jo Cox and discuss the importance of safety for women in public life.
Jo Cox was murdered on 16 June 2016 while travelling to a constituency meeting. Her death prompted a national conversation about the safety of elected representatives and the importance of respectful political debate.
Representing different political groups and wards across the borough, the councillors met to share experiences of serving their communities and to explore ways in which elected members can be better supported and protected while carrying out their duties.
Sadly, all of the members present were able to share examples of times when they were made to feel unsafe or were the subject of misogynistic comments, and whilst the group were supportive of those lived experience, the meeting explored ways in which elected members can be better supported and protected whilst carrying out their duties.
They focussed on the challenges faced by women in public office, including personal safety when meeting residents, dealing with sensitive casework and ensuring that local democracy remains accessible to people from all backgrounds.
The councillors agreed that, while political differences are an important part of democratic debate, the safety and wellbeing of elected representatives is an issue that transcends party politics.
Following the discussion, councillors put forward several suggestions aimed at strengthening support for councillors, including access to private meeting spaces for discussions with residents and raising wider awareness of personal safety considerations for elected members.
Councillor Grace Couch, Ward Member for Marden and Yalding, said: "Meeting on the 10th anniversary of Jo Cox's murder was a poignant reminder of the risks that can accompany public service and the importance of creating an environment where people feel safe to step forward and represent their communities.
"This was very much a cross-party conversation. Regardless of our political backgrounds, we share a commitment to serving residents and ensuring that local democracy remains open, welcoming and safe. It was a valuable opportunity to come together, share experiences and discuss practical ways we can support councillor safety."
Councillor Claudine Russell Ward Member for Marden and Yalding added: "Although we may disagree politically, Maidstone prides itself on working across political lines to serve our residents.
"The discussions showed how councillors can work collaboratively across party lines to address shared challenges. By coming together in the spirit of respect and co-operation, we can help ensure that people from all backgrounds continue to feel able to take part in public life and represent their communities."
The meeting reflected the enduring relevance of Jo Cox's belief that people have more in common than that which divides them and highlighted a shared commitment among Maidstone Borough councillors to create a culture of respect, safety and constructive engagement in local democracy.
The discussion reflects Maidstone Borough Council's wider commitment to tackling Violence Against Women and Girls. The council has launched a pioneering resident-led VAWG programme, established a dedicated VAWG Action Group and committed to developing a comprehensive strategy to improve safety, challenge harmful behaviours and create safer communities for women and girls.