New Engender report reveals worrying extent of misogyny and sexism in local government 

Lived experience participation in local decision making affected: "It's draining, I have a chronic condition, hence why I'm going to stop"

A new report from Engender has highlighted the significant impact that sexism and misogyny continue to have on women serving in local government, raising important questions about a loss of expertise in decision-making on health and social care services. 

Local councils play a key role in shaping and delivering services that affect disabled people, people living with long-term conditions and unpaid carers. However, the report outlines how sexism and misogyny are creating barriers to participation, with 90% of women councillors surveyed reporting experiences of sexism, misogyny or gender-based violence during their time in local government  

This culture within our local democracies has significant consequences. Nearly half (48%) of respondents said these experiences have made them less vocal, while 20% reported being excluded from decision-making processes. Almost a third (30%) said they would not recommend being a councillor to other women, rising to 45% among those under 55.  

The report also found that 41% of women councillors surveyed live with a long term physical or mental health condition, while 39% have unpaid caring responsibilities. These experience and perspective provide critical insight into how services are designed, delivered and improved.  

Yet, as described by one councillor, the impact can be profound: 

“It’s draining, and you feel as a woman that you have to fight for your place. I have a chronic condition, and my level is absolutely down the drain. Hence why I’m going to stop” 

For organisations working across health and social care, the findings highlight a wider concern. When women with lived experience of disability, long-term conditions or unpaid caring responsibilities are discouraged from participating fully in local democracy, there is a risk that decision-making loses perspective that are essential to understanding how services are experienced in practice and how they can be improved. 

The report reinforces the need to create environments where people with lived experience can participate safely, confidently and meaningfully in public life, and for urgent action to address the sexism and misogyny that continue to undermine participation in local democracy. Ensuring that these voices are heard is essential to developing effective, inclusive health and social care service that meet the needs of the people who rely on them. 

You can read the report at: ‘Part of the Job?’ Women councillors’ experiences of sexism, misogyny and gender-based violence in Scottish Councils

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