Members of the public concerned about councillors’ conduct can now make complaints directly to Bournemouth Borough Council.

Previously, anyone wishing to complain about the conduct of elected members in their council had to report their allegations to the Standards Board for England, which would decide whether or not to investigate. This responsibility has now been taken over by councils, with the Standards Board for England’s role moving towards one of advice and support.

All councillors have to keep to a Code of Conduct to ensure that they maintain the high ethical standards the public expect from them. If a complainant reveals that a potential breach of this Code has taken place, Bournemouth Council’s Standards Committee may refer the allegations for investigation or decide to take other action.

Investigations of complaints will also be managed by the Council, except in cases where a conflict of interest or other unusual circumstances mean that it would be more appropriate for the Standards Board for England to handle the investigation.

Once cases have been investigated, Bournemouth Council’s Standards Committee will decide what action, if any, should be taken against the member. On rare occasions this responsibility will be given to the Adjudication Panel for England, an independent judicial tribunal.

The Standards Board for England will continue to provide guidance to council standards committees and will monitor their effectiveness to ensure that results are consistent.

Roy Wardle, Independent Chairman of Bournemouth Council’s Standards Committee said: “By handling and investigating complaints at a local level the process will be more streamlined for the both the complainant and the member under investigation. We will also be able to take control and monitor our ethical standards more effectively and ensure high standards of conduct are maintained.

“Most members will never be subject to an investigation, but for the small number of cases where there is cause for concern, we will aim to deal with the allegations quickly and efficiently.”

Members of the public who wish to make a complaint about a member’s conduct can now do so by calling Bournemouth Borough Council on: 01202 451451 to request a complaints form.

A form will also be made available on the Council website at: www.bournemouth.gov.uk in due course.