Essential guidance for pre-election period 16 March to 7 May

The Scottish Parliament election will be held on 7 May. From 16 March up to and including election day is the designated ‘pre-election’ period.

During this period all employees must ensure that our duties cannot be perceived as promoting or supporting an individual candidate or political party. Comprehensive guidance is available for all colleagues on our council’s approach to managing this period. Key points include:

• political neutrality: all colleagues must adhere to strict political neutrality, especially during the pre-election period
• council resources: usage of our council facilities and resources for political campaigning is strictly prohibited
• continuation of business: normal operations will continue unless otherwise stated, with the guidance serving as a constant reference

The document also addresses specific scenarios such as the use of our council's premises, handling publicity and staff participation in political activities. It emphasises the importance of maintaining working relationships between staff and elected members without political bias.

The pre-election guidance document is available to download from the intranet homepage.