Every police force has a force elected-official advisor (FEOA) to support MPs, councillors and candidates in terms of their personal safety while campaigning for office.
They can also offer support for police and crime commissioners and metropolitan mayors during any elections.
FEOAs can provide briefings on personal safety while candidates are campaigning and the Electoral Commission has advised that candidates should maintain contact with them throughout the election process.
The government has advised that any candidates experiencing harassment or intimidation and believing there to be an immediate threat to their safety should call 999.
In the case of what the government describes as a less immediate threat, candidates are advised to call 101 or visit police.uk.
In a press release issued by the government on 25 April 2025, National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Policing Elections Deputy Commissioner Nik Adams said: “As with every election, the police’s role is to prevent and detect crime, and enable the democratic process to take place.
“We take that role very seriously because intimidation of candidates and their supporters has serious implications for individuals and wider democracy.
“We want every candidate, and everyone involved in securing the democratic process, to know that we are here to help them and keep them safe.
“All candidates will receive security advice and guidance from their local force. We would encourage candidates to read this guidance and attend security briefings.
“They should also take the time to introduce themselves to their local force, and ensure they know who their point of contact is. It is also important to take practical steps when campaigning to ensure safety.
“There have also been briefings from partners in related fields, such as around personal security, risks that come from social media, and general cyber safety advice.
“We would encourage candidates to be as proactive when engaging with our partners as much as they would be with the police.”
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