Our shire is blessed with a wealth of amazing individuals. As NSW marks Local Government Week, Kempsey Shire Council is focusing on the real people who wear our badge and who work every day to earn the respect of their community.
Council is committed to serving the needs of our 30,000 community members across this stunning region. And our almost 370 dedicated council employees live, work, and engage in the local area. This makes them passionate members of our community.
Unfortunately there are times when community frustration at Council as an organisation is expressed through aggression or abuse and as such Council is reminding us all of the need to resepect each other.
Craig Milburn, General Manager Kempsey Shire Council believes the values of the staff mirror the values of the community.
"I passionately believe that we are better together, and that is especially true when staff and the community are united," said Mr Milburn.
"Everyone at Council strives to provide exceptional service and uphold the highest standards of respect for everyone we encounter. When our team members demonstrate respect to our ratepayers, community members, and visitors, it sets the tone for mutual respect. Council is never going to please everyone. In a healthy community disagreement and frustration can be expressed with respect."
Unfortunately, over the past year, Council workers have faced a troubling rise in aggression and abuse. These incidents, whether verbal or physical, have occurred at worksites, public spaces, via email or social media, and over the phone.
In response to this concerning trend, the 'Respect is Everyone's Role' initiative has been launched, aiming to raise awareness of the issue and promote the importance of a safe work environment for all.
The campaign showcases Council staff from various departments, emphasising their personal contributions as community members, to showcase they are more than just their professional roles. The campaign will be rolled out with posters in Council buildings and across media as well as our digital and social media channels.
Liesa Davies, Acting Director Corporate and Commercial, said it was important to remember that staff are people too.
"Council employees are proud representatives of our organisation, but they are people first," said Ms Davies.
"By highlighting their interests, hobbies, and passions, we hope to remind everyone that we are part of the community too and we want to work in a respectful environment. Aggression is simply unacceptable."
Daniel Thoroughgood, Group Manager Governance and Information Systems, says some frustrations with Council matters can be unfairly directed at staff.
"Just one abusive phone call or heated conversation can disrupt our entire day," said Mr Thoroughgood.
"Council staff are passionate about their community, but they also have the right to be safe in their workplace."
The importance of this message was reflected in the preparations. Staff were eager to be part of the campaign as it is an important message to share and ensuring our teams are not subjected to the negative behaviour of a small minority.
Kempsey Shire Council is committed to promoting a culture of mutual respect and appreciation. Through the 'Respect is Everyone's Role' campaign, we aim to create a more positive and supportive environment for both our community members and our staff.
