Local elections candidates should use new breed of 'Force Elected-Official Advisers' within their police forces: Security Minister

The Security Minister has urged candidates at next month's elections to use the new security support available, which will include access to dedicated police officers for the first time.

Dan Jarvis told local election candidates that support is "available to maximise your safety whilst you go about campaigning" and added that harassment would not be tolerated.

As part of efforts to tackle abuse, candidates now have access to police officers who can offer a specialised network of expertise and support. They will also provide briefings on personal safety throughout the campaign period.

Metropolitan mayors, local councillors, police and crime commissioners, and those standing for election in those roles will have access to so-called 'Force Elected-Official Advisers' (FEOAs) within their local police force.

Now that nominations for candidacy have closed, these advisers are making contact with the returning officers in their region to encourage them to share contact details of the candidates, the Security Minister reported.

The minister also pointed to a range of security advice and guidance for candidates online that candidates can use to implement personal protective security measures.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis said: "To those campaigning now, support is available to maximise your safety whilst you go about campaigning and talking to voters.

"My message to those who cross the line from free speech to harassment is simple – it will not be tolerated."

The government previously set up the Defending Democracy Taskforce, which is partly aimed at improving election security. It is currently carrying out a review to understand how to tackle harassment and intimidation and identify any gaps and vulnerabilities in the current processes.

The review is set to bring forward recommendations to ministers once they are complete.

Commenting on the upcoming elections, the National Police Chiefs' Council lead for Policing Elections, Deputy Commissioner Nik Adams, encouraged candidates to read the guidance and attend any security briefings hosted by their local police force.

"They should also take the time to introduce themselves to their local force, and ensure they know who their point of contact is", he added.

Adam Carey