Social media has long been a space for open dialogue, but Liverpool City Council is now grappling with a surge in online negativity that has prompted a review of its Media Code of Conduct. With personal attacks on Councillors and Council staff rising, a discussion is underway about how best to navigate this digital space while ensuring that those serving the community are treated with respect.
At last night’s Council meeting, Mayor Ned Mannoun addressed the issue in a Mayoral Minute, highlighting the sharp increase in negative social media posts. According to a Council-conducted sentiment survey, negativity has grown significantly over the past year, with positive comments following a similar trajectory. However, the sheer volume of critical posts, particularly those targeting individuals, has become a concern.
The Mayor made it clear that while public scrutiny is a part of government operations, personal attacks on staff and Councillors cross a line. He acknowledged that Council employees work tirelessly to keep services running, often in difficult circumstances. Regardless of the criticism they may face, their dedication to the community remains unwavering.
Liverpool City Council’s current Media Policy provides a framework for engaging with traditional media, but the rapid evolution of online platforms has exposed gaps in its approach. The rise of cyberbullying, the impact of defamatory statements, and broader workplace health and safety concerns necessitate an urgent update. The Mayor stressed the need for a policy that reflects contemporary legal frameworks, covering areas such as Fair Work laws and protections against online harassment.
One of the key points raised was the broader implications of digital discourse on professional reputation. While robust debate is expected in public service, there is a clear distinction between constructive criticism and targeted abuse. The issue is not just about online conduct but how it impacts staff morale and the overall functioning of the Council. Ensuring a respectful online environment is not about stifling discussion but fostering one where conversations remain fair and factual.
The Mayor invoked a well-known adage about how treating waitstaff reveals a lot about a person’s character. The message was simple: kindness and respect should not be selective. Those working to serve the community, whether in hospitality or public service, deserve to be treated with dignity. The comparison served as a reminder that a culture of decency should extend to all interactions, including those that take place in the digital sphere.
The review of the Media Policy, which was unanimously supported by the Council, will take a comprehensive look at existing guidelines. The aim is to align them with legal standards and best practices while ensuring that online interactions remain within the bounds of respectful discourse. There is an increasing recognition that the digital world is not separate from real-world consequences, and this policy revision will take that into account.
This move by Liverpool City Council reflects a broader challenge faced by local governments across the country. Social media offers an invaluable platform for engagement, but it also presents new hurdles. The balance between transparency and the protection of individuals in public roles is one that many institutions continue to grapple with. The outcome of this review could set an important precedent for how councils navigate the complexities of digital communication in an era where social media’s influence is undeniable.
As the review process unfolds, the Council will likely engage with legal experts, workplace safety authorities, and digital media specialists to ensure that any updates to the Media Policy provide clear and enforceable guidelines. The challenge will be in crafting a policy that is robust enough to protect staff from unwarranted abuse while maintaining the fundamental principle of open communication between the Council and the public.
Liverpool’s approach to this issue will be closely watched by other local governments dealing with similar concerns. The conversation about online negativity is not new, but the need for updated policies to address it in a meaningful way has become increasingly urgent. Whether this review will lead to tangible changes in the way Council-related discussions unfold on social media remains to be seen, but it is a step towards ensuring that public discourse does not come at the cost of individual wellbeing.
The standard for digital engagement continues to evolve, and so too must the policies that govern it. Liverpool City Council’s decision to re-examine its Media Code of Conduct is a recognition that the online world is not a free-for-all and that accountability must extend to the digital sphere. As the review progresses, it will become clearer how local governments can better manage the realities of social media without compromising the principles of free speech and public accountability.
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