SEVEN out of 10 councillors say they have experienced abuse and intimidation in the past year, a survey by the Local Government Association (LGA) has found. 

Responses suggest local politicians are facing growing levels of intimidation, the LGA said, including cases of physical abuse such as spitting, with one in 10 also reported experiencing abuse “often,” according to its report, published today. 

This has led to some having to seek medical advice for depression and anxiety, while others reported not feeling able to leave their homes unaccompanied.