Seven in 10 councillors report experiencing abuse and intimidation over the last 12 months and councillors are reporting that abuse is becoming more common and increasing in severity.

The LGA's Debate Not Hate public statement calls on local government leaders, the government and relevant partners to come together through a government convened working group to produce and implement an action plan that addresses the abuse and intimidation of elected members and candidates and ensures their safety while they fulfil their democratic roles.

London Councils' party groups have signed up to the public statement, which you can read (and sign up to) here.

The Femicide Census 2020 found that “70 per cent of women are killed within their homes”. Housing is therefore a key part of the coordinated community response responsible for supporting victims/survivors and holding perpetrators to account. Housing providers and local authorities are best placed to identify and respond to victims/survivors and perpetrators of domestic abuse.

Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance (DAHA) is a partnership that supports social housing providers and local authorities to improve their response to domestic abuse, through our membership model, accreditation framework, and training packages.

DAHA is proudly working with 21 London Housing providers and Local Authorities to achieve foundational & enhanced accreditation. It is DAHA’s mission to ensure wherever a survivor accesses support they will receive a consistent and safe response. For more information on DAHA membership and accreditation, you can find their  membership  and accreditation Pack here.

Find out how the London Councils Grants Programme helps some of London’s most vulnerable residents

Responding to ambitious plans to boost tree planting across the capital, London Councils’ Climate Change, Transport and Environment Lead, Mayor Philip Glanville, said: “London is already experiencing the serious effects of climate change. The severe heatwave and fires last week and the devastating flash flooding last year are just two examples that prove the time for action is now.

“London boroughs are collaborating with partners, like the Mayor of London, on initiatives such as this that work for every resident across London’s diverse communities and crucially, have a long-lasting impact.

“More trees in London will contribute to our capital’s climate resilience, especially in areas more vulnerable to climate risk, and will take steps to ensure that London can continue to thrive as a resilient and green city.”