There are different types of councils in England. The type of council you have depends on where you live.
If you live in a larger city, like Birmingham or Manchester, you will have a city or metropolitan council which looks after all of your local services.
If you live in London, you will have a London borough or metropolitan district council. These types of councils cover all local services.
If you live in a medium-sized town or city, like Nottingham or Middlesbrough, it’s likely that your council will be a unitary authority. A unitary authority is very similar to a metropolitan district council and will look after all your area’s services. They may cover a bigger area than just one town or city. For example, North Lincolnshire and North Somerset are both unitary authorities.
Generally, if you live in a rural or semi-rural area, your local government will be split into two. You’ll have a county council and a district council.
A county council covers a large area, like Norfolk or Surrey, and is usually responsible for around 80% of local services like schools, roads and social services.
A district council is responsible for more locally-based services like rubbish and recycling, tourism, and support for local businesses.
Things work a little bit differently everywhere so you may find that your area isn’t exactly like this.
Find out what kind of councils you have
A small number of councillors form a cabinet or executive. This is the top decision-making group of the council but all decisions they make are guided by broad policies or plans that have been agreed by the whole council.
There are also thousands of parish and town councils in England. These councils look after services for a smaller area. This might include allotments, public halls, pathway lighting and litter bins. They might need permission from the larger council in your area to provide certain services.
Some areas have an elected mayor who has powers.
Other places may only have a civic mayor who is ceremonial with no real powers. They are not elected. You might see them opening new roads or businesses, holding open days at council offices or hosting community events.
If you want to make a complaint or raise an issue with your elected representative, you need to know which council is responsible for your area and which council is responsible for that service.
Find your council
