Councillor code of conduct

Behaviour

The Councillor’s (or members) code of conduct aims to promote high standards of behaviour.

It also applies to co-opted members.

County councillors must comply with the Code when they:

  • act in the capacity of a member of the authority
  • conduct the business of the authority 
  • represent the authority on any other body, except if it’s another relevant authority, when they will follow that authorities’ code of conduct.  

Councillors must behave in a way that follows the 7 Principles of public service:

  • Selflessness
  • Integrity
  • Objectivity
  • Accountability
  • Openness
  • Honesty
  • Leadership

The Members' Code of Conduct is Part 5a of our Constitution

Interests 

They must also declare and register any personal and business interests.

Complaints

If you would like to make a complaint about the conduct of a councillor, you will need to read the guidance before doing so and you will need to make reference to the Members' Code of Conduct above:

We can only accept complaints in writing so please use the online councillor complaint form or write to the address below.

Further reading