Staff Safety and Welfare
As employers, Dover District Council has a responsibility for
the health and safety of their employees whilst at work. In
addition, the enforcement responsibilities of the Local Authority
place many of its employees in situations of potential
conflict.
In recognition of this, Dover District Council and Kent Police
have agreed a protocol for the management of conflict between Dover
District Council staff and members of the public. In the
unfortunate event of an employee of Dover District Council being
assaulted, abused, or otherwise subjected to crime whilst
undertaking their official duties, Dover District Council will
further the proper investigation and prosecution of offenders, with
the full support of Kent Police. There will always be a presumption
to refer offenders to the Crown Prosecution Service where
sufficient evidence is available.
Under this protocol Kent Police will respond to calls for
assistance by Local Authority employees in the course of their
duties for Dover District Council upon whom an attack is being made
or to whom serious threats are made. An investigation will be
undertaken by the Police with a view to identifying and seeking a
prosecution against the offender. The Police and Crown Prosecution
Service will operate under their normal burden of proof, i.e.
“beyond all reasonable doubt.”
Where relevant, employees will be available to attend court. In
the event of a successful prosecution, the Crown Prosecution
Service will be specifically asked to apply for compensation in
favour of the victim.
Should the Police and/or Crown Prosecution Service decide not to
take the matter further, the Local Authority may consider a civil
remedy. In such cases, the Police will assist by disclosing all
relevant evidence in their possession.
Contact East Kent Human Resources
Tel: 01304 872799
Email: HRpartnership@dover.gov.uk
Post: East Kent HR Partnership, Dover District Council, White
Cliffs Business Park CT16 3PJ
