Dorset Council launches campaign to tackle rising abuse of highways staff

A Dorset Council construction supervisor has shared his experiences of increasing abuse directed at highways workers, as the council launches a campaign to protect frontline staff.

Ben, who has spent more than 20 years with the council, says verbal and physical aggression toward highways crews has become increasingly frequent.

“I’ve worked for Dorset Council for 21 years and take pride in the projects I’ve helped deliver,” he said. “But it’s worrying that abuse has started to feel normal. We often come to work expecting to be shouted at or told our work is worthless. Seeing colleagues, friends even, treated this way is unsettling. People can be very aggressive and confrontational, and that’s just not acceptable.”

Dorset Council emphasises that highways teams are essential to keeping roads safe and operational, often working in difficult conditions to maintain critical infrastructure used by both residents and visitors.

The council’s new initiative urges the public to treat staff with respect and makes clear that abusive behaviour will not be tolerated. While roadworks—ranging from pothole repairs to major infrastructure projects—can cause temporary disruption, most drivers are patient. A small minority, however, direct their frustration at workers, creating unsafe working conditions.

“Allowing crews to work without intimidation means projects can be completed more efficiently, which ultimately reduces disruption for road users,” the council notes.

Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet Member for Place Services, said: “It’s deeply concerning that our workforce, who work to improve Dorset’s roads and services, should face abuse. Everyone deserves to feel safe at work. Our staff are members of our community—sons, daughters, parents—and they should not have to endure threats or intimidation. We ask the public to put themselves in our crews’ shoes and show respect and kindness.”

The campaign coincides with a major investment programme in Dorset’s highways network, with up to £115 million allocated over the next four years. According to the council, delays caused by aggression or intimidation not only slow progress but also increase costs for taxpayers.

Dorset Council enforces a zero-tolerance policy on abuse. Any incidents, whether verbal or physical, are reported to the police. Sites are monitored using CCTV and body-worn cameras, with footage retained as evidence if needed. Each reported incident triggers an investigation, diverting staff from core duties and potentially extending project timelines.

The council provides training and support to help staff manage challenging situations and encourages members of the public to report abusive behaviour. Immediate threats or violence should be reported via 999, while non-emergency incidents can be reported through 101 or directly to the council’s customer services.

Dorset Council also supports the national Stamp it Out campaign, which seeks to end abuse of highways workers by raising awareness, collaborating with police forces, and advocating for stronger legal protections.

Abuse, whether verbal or physical, can have serious consequences for workers’ wellbeing and delay essential projects. Nationally, more than 2,300 highways staff reported incidents of abuse in 2023, including cases involving weapons.