Residents are being reminded that abuse, threats and violence towards council staff will not be tolerated, after two people were successfully prosecuted for assaulting a civil parking enforcement officer in Powys.

Powys County Council says its staff face challenging situations across the county every day while delivering essential public services, but frustration or disagreement must never spill over into abusive behaviour.

The warning follows recent court cases which saw two residents prosecuted for assaulting a civil parking enforcement officer.

The council stressed it operates a zero tolerance approach to any form of abuse directed at staff, including physical violence, verbal abuse, harassment, intimidation and threatening behaviour. It says it will work with police where necessary and take action to protect employees.

Emma Palmer, the council’s Chief Executive, said: “Our staff deserve to feel safe and respected at work. They are simply doing their jobs on behalf of the communities they live in and serve. We will not accept staff being threatened, intimidated or assaulted under any circumstances.”

The council says anyone wishing to raise concerns or complaints about council services should do so through its official complaints process at: https://en.powys.gov.uk/complaints