The Town Council has signed the national Civility and Respect Pledge, reaffirming its commitment to high standards of conduct, good governance and respect in public life.

The initiative, supported by the National Association of Local Councils (NALC) and the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC), encourages councils across the country to promote positive engagement and foster environments where councillors, staff, residents, volunteers and partner organisations are treated with courtesy and respect.

By signing the pledge, the Town Council joins local authorities nationwide in supporting the principles of professionalism, constructive debate and mutual respect.

The pledge was signed on behalf of the Council by Town Mayor Cllr Mary DeBoos, with Town Clerk Charmaine Bennett in attendance reflecting a shared commitment to these values across the organisation.

Town Mayor Cllr Mary DeBoos said:

“Most people who become involved in local government do so because they care about their community and want to make a positive difference. The Civility and Respect Pledge is a simple but important statement about the standards we expect of ourselves as a Council. Good local democracy relies on people being able to discuss difficult issues, challenge ideas and express different views while treating one another with courtesy and respect. That's something Ringwood Town Council is proud to support.”

Photo: Cllr Mary DeBoos, Town Mayor, signing the Civility & Respect Pledge, with Charmaine Bennett, Town Clerk