Social Media negativity prompts Media Code review

Liverpool City Council is reviewing its Media Code of Conduct following an increase in negative posts about Councillors and Council staff.

In Mayoral Minute at last night’s meeting, Mayor Ned Mannoun said that, since late last year, there had been a significant increase in negative social media posts including a large number of personal attacks on Council staff — both collectively and individually.

According to a Council social media sentiment survey, the number of negative comments has increased, with positive comments matching the trend (see chart below).

“Such conduct not only undermines the wellbeing of staff but also threatens the professional reputation of Council,” he said.

“Liverpool City Council staff work tirelessly every day to serve our community, often in challenging circumstances.

“Despite the negativity they may face online, they continue to provide essential services with dedication and professionalism.

“We sincerely thank them for their unwavering commitment and hard work.

While Liverpool City Council’s existing Media Policy provides guidance on “traditional” media engagement, it requires an urgent review to better reflect contemporary legal frameworks, particularly in relation to cyberbullying and social media conduct by both staff and Councillors, the Mayor said.

“How you treat a waiter says a lot about your character,” he said.

“This well-known saying reminds us that respect and kindness should extend to everyone, including those who serve our community.

The Minute (attached) – unanimously adopted by the Council – calls for a formal review of the current Media Policy to ensure it aligns with current laws and best practices including but not limited to Work, Health and Safety, online bullying, defamation, Fair Work and any other relevant laws.

Social Media sentiment trend, September 2024 to date. The overall trend indicates an increase in negative posts, but balanced with a proportional increase in positive posts.

“How you treat a waiter says a lot about your character.” This well-known saying reminds us that respect and kindness should extend to everyone, including those who serve our community. In the same spirit, we must ensure that our Council staff—who work tirelessly for Liverpool—are treated with dignity and respect, both in person and online.

Since late last year, there has been a significant increase in negative social media posts that have included personal attacks on Council staff—both collectively and individually. Such conduct not only undermines the wellbeing of staff but also threatens the professional reputation of Council.

We can all have different views, but ultimately, we must learn to agree to disagree to allow democracy to function. Respectful debate and open discussion are the foundation of our governance. When we engage in constructive dialogue rather than hostility, we strengthen our community and set a positive example for future generations.

Our children learn from how we act, both in public and online. If we engage in negativity and disrespect, they see it as acceptable. We must ensure that we always set the right example.

Liverpool City Council staff work tirelessly every day to serve our community, often in challenging circumstances. Despite the negativity they may face online, they continue to provide essential services with dedication and professionalism. We sincerely thank them for their unwavering commitment and hard work.

While Liverpool City Council’s existing Media Policy provides guidance on media engagement, it requires an urgent review to better reflect contemporary legal frameworks, particularly in relation to cyberbullying and social media conduct by both staff and Councillors.

I propose that Council initiate a formal review of its Media Policy to ensure it aligns with current laws and best practices including but not limited to Work, Health and Safety, online bullying, defamation, Fair Work and any other relevant laws.

Recommendation

That Council:

1.      Endorses a review of the Media Policy to incorporate the proposed amendments above.

2.      Requests the CEO to prepare a draft revised Media Policy for Council’s consideration at a future meeting.

3.      implements a regular training program for staff and Councillors on responsible social media and media engagement.

The Motions were unanimously approved