citizens and local government

• Local democracy operates through a structured system where local councils represent their communities and provide essential services.
• Types of Government Structures in the UK:

  1. Central Government (based in Westminster) – Responsible for national laws, security, foreign relations, taxation, and devolved powers.
  2. Devolved Assemblies – Handle legislation for Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
  3. Regional Bodies – Some cities have directly elected mayors or commissioners for policing and transport.
• • 4.County Councils – Manage education, transport, fire services, libraries, and highways.
  • 5.Local Councils (district, unitary, and borough councils) – Oversee council tax, social housing, leisure services, and planning.
  • 6.Parish and Town Councils – Focus on smaller, community-specific services like allotments and parks.
• Local Council and County Council Structures

  Local councils and county councils are organized similarly to central government.

  • County Councils:
  • Divisions: Electoral areas within county councils.
  • The party with the most seats forms a cabinet to manage services like education, transport, fire services, and libraries.
• • Local Councils:
  • Wards: Electoral areas in local councils.
  • The Local Government Act 2000 states that councils must have one of the following structures:
  • Mayor and Cabinet Executive
  • Leader and Cabinet Executive
  • Committee System
• Roles and Responsibilities of Local and County Councils

  There are three key roles in local and county councils:

  1. Mayors

  • Elected Mayors (e.g., Mayor of London) – Chosen by the public and responsible for local services.
  • Civic Mayors – Elected by councillors; only perform ceremonial duties and chair meetings.
• • Local Councillors
  • Elected by the public to represent their party and local residents.
  • Responsible for making decisions on social housing, leisure services, local policies, and scrutinizing council work.
  • Local Officers
  • Paid employees who work with councillors.
  • Manage and implement council policies (e.g., planning the best routes for recycling vehicles).
• Explain two services that can be provided by a district council. (4 marks)

  • Social housing, often called council housing. This typically provides low-income families with affordable rented accommodation.
  • Different kinds of leisure services. Examples of these include skate parks, paddling pools, carnivals and firework displays.