Services

Explore the local archives to help your research into family and local history at your local council

Find out if your council collects recycling, how to recycle household waste such as mobile phones, computers, packaging and green waste

How to appeal to your council or the Valuation Tribunal about a Council Tax bill, fine or completion notice

If you get help from social services, direct payments let you choose and buy the services you need yourself, instead of getting them from your council

Appeal a decision by your local planning authority about an application for planning permission - documents you need to provide, who can appeal, how long it takes

Arrange for the collection of garden waste by your council

Apply for meals at home from your council or other local organisation

How local councils work in England - types of council, decision-making, council finances, local councillors and making complaints

Find out about your business rates bill, business rate relief or pay your bill through your local council

Rent an allotment through your council to grow your own fruit and vegetables - you can be allocated a plot or added to a waiting list

Rules for alcohol licensing in your area, apply for a licence or have your say about a licence application

Complain to your council if they have done something wrong, failed to provide a service or not followed correct procedures

Get information from your local council about asbestos in your home and how to dispose of it safely

Find your nearest library to access services such as book loans, CD rentals and internet access

Your local library offers many services like book loans, CD rental and internet access - contact your council for more information

Many councils provide community alarm services to support independent living in your own home

Contact your council about funding and grants for your project - activities for young people, volunteer programmes, development of communal facilities

If a limited company owes you money, you can use Form SD1 (a ‘statutory demand’) to demand payment within 21 days.

• From: HM Courts & Tribunals Service

Apply through your local council for short-term ('respite') care for your sick or disabled child to enable you to have a break from caring

Apply to adopt a child through your local council if you are 21 or over and can offer a stable home to a child